Before High School: An Insider Conversation with Heads of School on the Years That Shape Children

​Choosing a school isn’t only about where your child will be tomorrow - it’s about the kind of experience they will have along the way.

​Join ISAAGNY for a special virtual conversation exploring The Benefits of Kindergarten – 8th Grade (K-8) Education, featuring Heads of School from leading New York City K-8 independent schools. Discover what makes the K-8 experience distinctive: close-knit communities where children are truly known, resources intentionally focused on the elementary and middle school years, strong partnerships between families and schools, and meaningful opportunities for students to lead at an earlier age.

​Moderated by Amanda Jones, a K-8 graduate who went on to Harvard, this conversation will explore how K-8 schools give children the attention, support, opportunities, and foundation they need to grow with confidence and be well prepared for what lies ahead.

​Workshops are designed for families considering an independent school education for their children. Registration is required.

​SPEAKER BIO: Amanda is a proud product of a K-8 independent school education in New York City, having attended The Cathedral School of St. John the Divine through 8th grade before graduating from The Peddie School. She earned a BA in History with a minor in French from Haverford College and a Master’s degree in Education Leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education in May 2026. Her professional background spans serving as a public school kindergarten teacher and as the Associate Director of Admissions at a private school in Manhattan. Amanda is currently dedicating her post-graduate year to writing her first book, which explores The Brownies’ Book magazine - the first major periodical published for black children in 1920 - and early 20th century children’s literature. She also volunteers at multiple history nonprofits.