Independent Education Group urges parents to start school planning for 2027

Independent Education Group founder Michelle Smith says families should begin evaluating school fit now, not at the last minute, to improve academic, social and emotional outcomes. The Boston-based advisory firm is pitching an annual planning checkup as parents look ahead to the 2027 school year.

Why it matters: - School fit can shape a student’s academic performance, emotional well-being and sense of belonging. - Independent Education Group says families often focus on rankings and reputation instead of matching a school to a child’s individual needs. - The firm argues that early planning can help families avoid rushed decisions and find schools where children are more likely to thrive.

What happened: - Michelle Smith, founder and chief education strategist of Independent Education Group, said parents should start planning now for the 2027 school year. - Smith said many families wait until the last minute to look for a new school, which can leave too little time to assess whether the school is a good fit. - Independent Education Group is based in Boston and serves families nationwide.

The details: - Smith has worked in education for decades and has spent more than 20 years serving as a dean of students, principal, head of school and educational leader. - A 2025 study published in the Journal of Intelligence found that school belonging is linked to academic achievement, emotional well-being and overall development. - The study also pointed to participation in school life, academic and emotional support, and social involvement as factors that strengthen belonging. - Independent Education Group says parents should evaluate each child individually because siblings may need different school environments. - The firm recommends considering learning style, academic pace, values, school culture, academic interests and social interests. - Parents should also discuss options with older children, especially if a student wants honors classes, dual enrollment or a specific field of study. - Independent Education Group says families should consider multiple school types, including public, magnet, charter, online and private schools. - Smith said working with a trusted adviser can reduce the emotional bias that sometimes affects school choices. - The firm recommends an annual educational strategy checkup to reassess each child’s path. - Smith said the goal is to match students with educational paths that suit their needs, personality and learning style.

Between the lines: - The message reflects a broader shift away from one-size-fits-all school selection. - Independent Education Group is positioning school choice as an ongoing strategy, not a one-time admissions task. - The firm is also expanding the idea of school planning beyond admissions to include coaching, transitions, advocacy and long-term academic support.

What's next: - Families looking ahead to 2027 are being encouraged to begin reviewing options now. - Independent Education Group says it will continue offering personalized guidance on school selection, academic coaching, college preparation, parent advising and student advocacy. - More information is available on the company’s website.

The bottom line: - Independent Education Group wants parents to treat school selection as an early, individualized planning process aimed at finding the best academic and social fit for each child.