Board Chair/Clerk - Head of School Brunch
The Inn at Villanova
601 County Line RoadWayne, PA 19087-4523
United States
* Registration open until 4/13/26 at 11:59 PM (EDT)
Each year this event provides Heads of School and Board Chairs/Clerks with the opportunity to come together outside of a school environment, network with peers from throughout the area, and engage in focused discussions on relevant and timely topics in independent school education. In addition to the keynote address presented by Dr. Valaida Wise, we will also present our annual Barbara Kraus-Blackney Visionary Service Award to Cal Simon,
co-founder of The Philadelphia School.
Keynote Speaker
Dr. Valaida Wise
Dr. Valaida Wise
President & Principal Consultant,
Dr. Valaida Wise Consulting, LLC
After more than 20 years of experience in the field of education, Dr. Valaida L. Wise (Val) made the career choice to share her vast knowledge and expertise with the larger community. Specializing in for-profit organizations, non-profits, and educational institutions, Val brings a unique perspective predicated upon achieving exceptional outcomes across the full spectrum of operations and training. Utilizing a warm and inviting teaching style, combined with in-depth knowledge of current research, Dr. Wise is sought after by organizations of all sizes for her professional speaking ability, training seminars, and Equity Audit process. With a focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, governance, and leadership, she delivers a comprehensive organizational assessment and action plan.
Dr. Valaida Wise received her Doctorate of Education in Education Leadership from George Washington University. Dr. Wise also holds a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education from Trinity College. Her vast experience equips her to address all aspects of organizational management and leadership, parent/teacher relationships, fundraising, staff development and fiscal management.
Val served as the Head of School at the National Child Research Center in Washington DC, The Harbor School in Bethesda, MD, and Henson Valley Montessori School in Prince Georges County MD. She is currently on the faculty at John Hopkins University, Baltimore in the School of Education. She is the Chair of the Board of Trustees at Creative Minds International Public Charter School in Washington DC and also sits on the board of the McLean School in Potomac, MD, the Nora School in Silver Spring, MD, and the Association of Independent Schools of Maryland Glen Burnie, MD
9:30-10:00 AM | Check In and Brunch
10:00-10:30 AM | Presentation of Visionary Service Award to
Cal Simon, Co-Founder, The Philadelphia School
10:30-10:45 AM | Introduction of Keynote
10:45 AM-12:30 PM | Keynote Address: Dr. Valaida Wise
Barbara Kraus-Blackney Visionary Service Award
recognizes an individual or organization, usually a volunteer, for their commitment to independent education. ADVIS celebrates the fact that our individual schools, and independent schools in general, are stronger and more viable for the gifts of talent, time, energy, and resources from those volunteers that recognize the lasting positive effects our schools have on our society. We are honored to announce the 2025-26 recipient:
Cal (Caroline) Simon,
Co-Founder of The Philadelphia School
In 1972, Cal (Caroline) Simon, alongside fellow founder Lynne Berman, helped launch what would become The Philadelphia School, guided by a bold vision for progressive education in the heart of Center City. At a time when many families were leaving the city, Cal chose a different path—one rooted in curiosity, community, and a belief in the transformative power of child-centered learning.
With determination and optimism, she helped turn an ambitious idea into a thriving institution. While raising a young family and balancing professional responsibilities as a lawyer, Cal devoted herself to studying innovative school models, building support, and inspiring others to take the leap alongside her. What began as a hopeful experiment became a school that has shaped generations of lifelong learners.
Cal’s leadership extended well beyond the founding years. As a devoted trustee and the first woman to serve as Board President, she played a pivotal role in guiding the school’s growth and ensuring its mission remained strong. Her service has always been deeply hands-on—whether organizing community-wide learning experiences, teaching short courses, or creating enduring traditions that brought students’ learning to life.
Even today, Cal continues to embody the spirit of lifelong learning and civic engagement that inspired the school’s founding. Her presence, wisdom, and unwavering belief in children’s natural curiosity remain woven into the fabric of The Philadelphia School.
Cal Simon’s legacy is one of visionary leadership, resilience, and lasting impact. Through her dedication and faith in what education can be, she helped build not only a school, but a model of independent education that continues to thrive and inspire.
We are pleased to offer convenient hotel accommodations for event participants at
The Inn at Villanova.
To reserve, call the Inn directly at 1-610-450-4953 and request a room from
the ADVIS Chair and Head Brunch block.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!
PROGRAM FEES
Act 48 Credits Available
• You may request credit up to 7 days after the event.
• Per the PA Department of Education,
ADVIS is required to report your successful completion of Act 48 evaluation within 30 days of the event.
• Contact Mandie Curtis Banks for more information.
ACCESSIBILITY
We strive to make our events inclusive and accessible for all. Request accommodations on the registration form, or contact Mandie Curtis Banks with accessibility questions. Please give at least two weeks’ notice to help us ensure seamless access.
EVENT CONTACT
Dena Torino, Director of Programming