PAIS: A Transformative Journey
A Five-Year Overview
By Chad Barnett, PAIS Board Chair & Head of School, St. Edmund's Academy

In 2018, PAIS faced a pivotal moment with the retirement of Linda Phelps, our dedicated executive director of 27 years. Linda's remarkable tenure had shaped PAIS into the respected organization it is today, known primarily for accreditation services and various other offerings. However, this transition prompted us to consider our identity and future.

2018–2019: Exploring Consolidation and Reinvigoration
As we searched for Linda's successor, the Association of Delaware Valley Independent Schools (ADVIS) proposed the idea of strategic consolidation. This notion, born out of shared interests and strengths, led us to question whether merging would enable us to better serve our members and fulfill our missions more effectively. Key considerations included accreditation services, professional development, cost efficiencies, and setting a model for collaborative strength.

2020: Charting a New Course Amidst Challenges
With the appointment of Gary Niels as PAIS's new director, we embarked on a mission to revitalize our organization. A robust schedule of school visits was initiated to rebuild relationships, along with plans for an Accreditation Summit.

2021: The Strategic Sprint
In 2021, we took a significant step by surveying member school heads to understand their needs and aspirations. The results indicated a desire for more relevant programming, meaningful connections, adaptive accreditation processes, and legislative advocacy. The "Strategic Sprint," led by Greg Bamford at Leadership & Design, resulted in three primary focus areas:

Revamping Accreditation:
We aimed to make the accreditation process more valuable, supportive of strategic planning, and adaptable to the rapidly changing educational landscape.		 Building Stronger Connections:
Members expressed the need for better networking opportunities, and we committed to enhancing professional connections within our association.		 Expanding Dynamic Programs:
We introduced a range of innovative programs that addressed the evolving needs and interests of our diverse membership.


2021: Navigating Challenges and Moral Responsibility
During this period, we faced a challenging situation at a member school that tested the limits of our authority and purpose. The events at this school were emblematic of the broader cultural reckoning on racial and cultural issues affecting independent schools and their leaders. Many heads of schools encountered pushback on diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and belonging (DEIJB) initiatives.

Regional associations, including PAIS, became vital sources of guidance amid the culture wars within school communities. This led us to question our role in asserting moral leadership in this work.

2022: Defining Our Direction
The "FORUM" in May 2022 marked a formal response to these challenges. It highlighted the need to:

Define Strategic Responsibility:
Clarify our purpose and role in supporting member schools.		 Membership Criteria:
Establish criteria for schools aligned with our mission.		 Complaint Policy:
Revise policies for addressing complaints and driving change.		 Program Direction:
Set a strategic direction for our programs to better serve members.		 DEIJB Commitment:
Formulate a clear DEIJB promise and position statement.


2023: Moving Forward with Purpose
Over the past five years, PAIS has undergone a profound transformation. We've redefined our identity, enhanced accreditation processes, fostered stronger connections among members, and introduced dynamic programs. We've also grappled with complex challenges, striving to assert moral leadership within our diverse membership.

As we move forward, PAIS remains committed to championing high-quality, safe, equitable, and sustainable schools that positively impact students' lives. Our journey continues as we adapt to evolving educational landscapes and work together to uphold our core values and mission.