Cleveland Council of Independent Schools

09/05/2026

Many of our CCIS leaders are mentioned in this article about private schools - Check it out! And remember, All Independent Schools are Private, but not all Private Schools are Independent! Theres a big difference!

08/19/2026

Open to the public!!

The first independent community TEDx event open to the public in Cleveland in more than a decade is coming to University School’s Hunting Valley Campus on Saturday, August 22.⁠

Organized by Charlie Martin ’27 and Jack Nelson ’27 with the support of Dr. Yoder, TEDxHuntingValley is a student-led event featuring six student speakers and six adult speakers exploring the theme, "The Invisible Engine: The Forces We Forget."

Attendance is limited to just 100 guests.

Learn more and reserve your seat: https://www.tedxhuntingvalley.com

08/18/2026

Look at this fantastic event open to the public. Hopewell is exploring mental health and spotlighting Anxiety and OCD. It will be at Gilmour Academy on October 6. You must pre-register

08/17/2026

Our Professional Development is on FIRE this Fall with two incredible presenters: Linda Haitani and Thomas Guskey. 🔥

We’re bringing CCIS members two can’t-miss opportunities to learn from experts who are at the top of their fields.

💡 Linda Haitani | September 15
AI, admissions, data, and the future of enrollment — Linda brings practical insights, real-world expertise, and ideas you can actually use.

📚 Thomas Guskey | October 6
Grades, grading, and grade inflation — Dr. Guskey is one of the leading voices in the field and will challenge us to think differently about how we assess and communicate student learning.

Two superstars. Two timely topics. One very exciting fall of CCIS Professional Development.

Save the dates — you won’t want to miss these! 🔥

07/30/2026

Welcome Thomas!

WELCOMING OUR NEW HEAD OF SCHOOL

Dear Grand River Academy Community,

It is my great honor, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, to welcome Thomas P***k as the next Head of School of Grand River Academy.

Thomas's story is deeply connected to the history and spirit of this institution. A native of Austinburg, Ohio, he first came to Grand River at the suggestion of his French teacher, Mr. Balash. He earned his B.A. in Philosophy from Christendom College and a Master's in Clinical Counseling from Gannon University.

Thomas began as an intern under Randy Blum, developing a deep appreciation for GRA's mission. While pursuing his graduate degree, he worked in Maintenance and served as Dorm Master in Mastin Hall. After completing his Master's, he moved into counseling full time. Over the next nine years, Thomas and his wife, Clare, lived on campus, serving in roles including Director of Student Life, Philosophy teacher, tennis coach, and College Placement counselor.

Thomas also established the Productive Growth Center for Counseling, integrating a hand-tool woodworking shop into his practice—reflecting his belief that growth comes through meaningful work, responsibility, and mentorship.

In 2023, Thomas became Director of Development, and in 2024, Assistant Head of School. At the heart of his understanding of Grand River is the belief that student development must remain at the core of our mission—helping young men build character, confidence, discipline, and the skills to become good men and productive citizens.

Thomas steps into this role with deep knowledge of Grand River and profound respect for its history. His journey—from intern to Head of School—is a testament to the enduring power of our mission.

We're also grateful to the many faculty and staff who have treated this Academy as an extension of their own homes. That tradition of dedication is one we must preserve.

The future of Grand River Academy is bright, and we look forward to working with Thomas, our faculty and staff, our families, our alumni, and our entire community as we continue the important work of preparing young men for lives of purpose, responsibility, and service.

On behalf of the Board, thank you, Thomas, for your leadership and your years of service.

Please join me in welcoming Thomas P***k as Head of School of Grand River Academy.

With gratitude and confidence in the future,
Jerome R. Brockway, PhD
Chairman, Board of Trustees

07/27/2026

CCIS Parents - Join us at University School for this fantastic speaker on August 13.

07/24/2026

It is with great sadness that I share our support for the Ratner School community during this incredibly difficult time. Our hearts are with the students, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and everyone whose lives have been touched by Ratner.

As Executive Director of the Cleveland Council of Independent Schools, I have been inspired by the compassion and generosity of our member schools as they come together to support Ratner families and faculty. We are committed to supporting families and educators during this transition by providing guidance, answering questions, and connecting them with opportunities across our member schools.

The independent school community is strongest when we support one another. We stand with the Ratner community and remain committed to helping in every way we can.

05/28/2026

This is such a wonderful way to celebrate the graduating seniors.

05/26/2026

Grandparents and Special Friends Day is such a wonderful event!

05/15/2026

Great evening social at Firebirds! It’s so meaningful when you get to connect with your colleagues from your neighboring regional schools ❤️