In step with NBOA tradition, we’ve gathered a baker’s dozen of notable Net Assets articles from the past calendar year. They run the gamut of expertise areas, just like the independent school business office, from compensation analysis to scenario planning to governance and AI. If you haven’t yet dipped into these areas, now’s the time to advance your business office practices and stay ahead of the curve as we head into 2026.
Show Me the Money: Salary Transparency
Whether or not there’s a state or local law on the books, many schools are finding pay transparency is better for everyone..jpg?sfvrsn=c6a8e72f_1 "January February 2025 (1)")
The Evolving Role of the School Counselor
School leaders and counselors both need to understand confidentiality from a legal standpoint and prepare accordingly.
The Gender Gap in the Business Office
Men and women in the business office have different professional experiences, according to new data.
Navigating Two-Household Families
Strong policies are critical when parents have different ideas about applications, financial aid and enrollment contracts.
Mitigating an Active Shooter
Strong planning and leadership helped one school through the unthinkable.
Home Improvement: Faculty Housing Solutions
When faculty and staff struggle to find housing close to school, creative support may be an order.
Back to the Future: Facilities That Think Forward
How schools are staying in the green — and the black — with the latest facilities updates.
.jpg?sfvrsn=1493b24f_1 "July August 2025 (1)")
Trial by Fire: Wildfire and Crisis Management
Independent school leaders evaluated, evacuated and evolved their approach to educational operations through the fury of this year’s L.A. area fires.
Other Duties as Assigned: Wrestling with Responsibilities
The CFOO role can inform the approach to coaching wrestling and vice versa.
Navigating Uncertainty
What independent school leaders need to know about changing federal policies.
If This, Then That: Scenario Planning in an Unpredictable Economy
When the economic forecast is unclear, savvy school leaders are planning with multiple scenarios in mind.
.jpg?sfvrsn=117fb5b8_1 "November December 2025 (1)")
The Board’s Role in Governing AI Use
Your school’s board of trustees may need some guidance in discussing AI use at the appropriate level.
A(I) Helping Hand for HR
Some school HR pros are beginning to turn to AI for efficiencies, but bias, inaccuracy and liability remain risks that require vigilance.
