Small School Success Studio:  Your Strategic Partner

Ready for the Next Level… whatever it is? Personal connection and trust can empower you and drive your success as your organization evolves.

The SSSSS mission is to provide comprehensive, customized leadership consultancy services that enhance the capabilities of small school leaders, support effective governance, and promote sustainable, high-quality education environments.

Backed by superb administrative support, Stuart Grauer, Ed.D., is a leading authority on small schools and expeditionary education with over 50 years of experience. As the founder of The Grauer School and the Small Schools Coalition, confidante and consultant to many small school leaders, and a long-time chair of accreditation teams, he specializes in strategic planning, board governance, organizational development, accreditation preparation, and leadership coaching. Dr. Grauer consults globally, providing tailored support to educational leaders aiming to maximize their schools’ impact.

His work and writings have garnered international attention, with coverage by the Discovery Channel (“Understanding Oceans”), The New York Times, Phi Delta Kappan, Independent School Magazine, ASCD SmartBriefs, and more. Locally, in Encinitas, CA, he has been honored as “Peacemaker of the Year” and “Local Legend.” Dr. Grauer’s accolades include the coveted Fulbright Educational Administration Fellowship and the University of San Diego’s highest alumni honor, the Author Hughes Career Achievement Award.

Stuart Grauer’s skills and background includes:

• Leadership in Small Schools: Over 50 years of experience in leadership development and developing small schools, with a deep understanding of their unique challenges and opportunities
• Strategic Planning and Development: Expertise in guiding small schools through strategic planning, helping them develop clear, actionable roadmaps for long-term success.
• Accreditation and Evaluation: Extensive experience in school accreditation processes, with decades of service as Chair of School Evaluation Committees for the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
• Small School Coalition Leadership: Founder of the Small Schools Coalition, providing support and advocacy for small school leaders seeking to demonstrate the value of their educational models.
• Teacher and Curriculum Development: Strong background in mentoring teachers and developing innovative, student-centered curricula that cater to the needs of small school environments.
• Educational Storytelling and Communication: Renowned for his ability to communicate complex educational ideas through storytelling, engaging educators, parents, and students alike.
• Consulting and Advisory Services: Extensive consulting experience, offering tailored advice and support to small schools worldwide on various aspects, from leadership to curriculum design.
• Expeditionary Education Expertise: Recognized authority in expeditionary learning, integrating real-world experiences with academic study to create impactful educational journeys.
• Crisis Management and Conflict Resolution: Skilled in guiding schools through difficult situations, providing clear leadership and strategies for overcoming challenges.
• Global Educational Perspective: Experience working in international education, including collaborating with schools all over the world and serving as Principal of the International School of Basel, Switzerland, bringing a global perspective to small school leadership.

Collaboration, Courage, Creativity