Debra Wilson

Sep 18, 2024 | nais.org | Debra Wilson

This article appeared as "Meeting the Parents" in the Fall 2024 issue of Independent School. I had an epiphany the other day when all three of our teen and young-adult kids were home, seated on the couch, each absorbed in their phones. It dawned on me that in that moment, as in so many, they were within my reach; I could see them, attest to their physical safety, check in on them, and yet, they were also beyond my reach, deep in their virtual worlds.

Jul 9, 2024 | nais.org | Debra Wilson

A little more than a week ago, nearly 200 brave souls officially began a new headship at an independent school––some of whom are first-time heads of school, joining these leadership ranks for the first time. I’m thrilled to offer a very warm welcome from NAIS, wishing brand-new heads and seasoned leaders transitioning headship alike success for the road ahead.

Jun 18, 2024 | nais.org | Debra Wilson |Robert Sutton |Huggy Rao

Looking for just the right book for your summer reading list? NAIS President Debra Wilson shared these recommendations in her most recent edition of Head Space. Most of the titles are directly applicable to the work of educators and leaders, but some might enrich your life in different ways. Growing as People, Leaders, Teams, and School Communities Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things by Adam Grant Grant’s books always offer a healthy helping of insight.

Feb 27, 2024 | nais.org | Debra Wilson

This article appeared as "Ripple Effect" in the Spring 2024 issue of Independent School. Recently, I was talking with a colleague about our experiences as working parents. We both had children in the early 2000s and both found ourselves among the few leaders in our organizations with kids.

Jan 25, 2024 | nais.org | Debra Wilson

This article appeared as "The Bigger Picture" in the Summer 2024 issue of Independent School. In the fall of 1986, my father faced his first challenge as a parent in the college admission process. My older brother, always a bit rebellious in spirit, decided at the last minute to apply to Emory University, a college unknown to my dad, far away, and outside the usual college choices for students in southern New England at the time.