NEASC

How does perspective change when an educator moves from leading a single district to working across many systems?

In a recent conversation, Kristen Smidy, Associate Director for the NEASC Commission on Public Schools and member of the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, reflected on that shift from principal and superintendent to a broader systems perspective.

Her insights highlight how stepping back reveals patterns across schools, the value of shared language for improvement, and the difference between compliance-driven work and meaningful school improvement.

Read more about her perspective here: https://www.neasc.org/high-quality-learning/insights/host/~board/insights/post/from-one-school-to-many-systems

This Earth Day, we're proud to celebrate our many accredited schools that go beyond academics to cultivate environmental stewardship and embed sustainability into their communities.

We applaud all commitment to learning that inspires action and prepares students to lead responsibly in a changing world.

What environmental initiatives are taking place in your school?

Now accepting proposals for the 2026 NEASC Leadership conference, taking place in Boston on November 16-18.

This year’s theme, From Intent to Impact, focuses on aligning all systems in a school to support high-quality learning for all.

We’re seeking presenters ready to share ideas, practices, and voices that move beyond intent to real impact.

Proposal deadline: May 22, 2026

Submit your proposal here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=9hRv684qLUKT0w-KTJvqG3NKmybWPPNFpIQOLObmx8ZUNzRTT1Q1V0pPWlM2UVJJTUM5UVBDM1pWQiQlQCN0PWcu&route=shorturl