In this episode of Mindful School Marketing, we’re joined by Christina Dotchin, Vice President of Member Relations at the Enrollment Management Association (EMA). Christina shares a behind-the-scenes look at EMA’s pivotal role in supporting over 1,200 independent schools and 20,000 members through research, enrollment tools, and professional development.

We dive into the latest enrollment trends emerging from EMA’s recent reports, including the State of the Independent School Enrollment Industry, Ride to Independent Schools, and their newest study on Family Perceptions of Value and Affordability. Christina reveals what families really care about when choosing a school, and the data might surprise you. From rising waitlists to the continued importance of college outcomes, this episode will help school leaders and marketing teams understand what’s shifting and how to respond.

In This Episode:

What EMA’s recent merger with ERB means for schools

Key takeaways from three major enrollment reports

What families say they value most and what they won’t compromise on

How to use data to make strategic decisions instead of relying on gut feelings

Rethinking the ROI of open houses

The surprising factor that still drives high school enrollment decisions

Why being mindful and present matters in enrollment conversations

Mentioned in the episode: https://www.enrollment.org/professional-development/enrollment-management-spectrum