Michelle Smith is an education leader, advisor, and founder of Independent Education Group, a boutique consulting firm dedicated to helping families navigate school placement, academic strategy, and competitive admissions with clarity and confidence.
With more than two decades of experience in independent school leadership, Michelle has served as Dean of Students, Principal, and Head of School, guiding students, families, and faculty across every stage of the educational journey. Throughout her career, she has worked closely with middle and high school students in academic planning and strategies that help students thrive both in school and beyond.
Her leadership roles have provided a rare insider perspective into how schools truly evaluate applicants, support students, and define success — knowledge she now brings directly to families. Michelle is known for her thoughtful, highly personalized approach, blending strategic planning with genuine care to help each student find the right academic environment and path forward.
As founder and CEO of Independent Education Group, she partners with families nationwide — including many in the Phoenix area and New England — to provide comprehensive educational advising, private and independent school placement, and long-term academic guidance from middle school through college preparation.
Michelle is a trusted advocate, strategist, and steady guide for families seeking an intentional, well-matched, and empowering educational experience for their children.
2 topics · no fee, no honorarium, no mileage
Review available topics below. Use the “Request This Free Speech” button and fill out the contact form. Michelle contacts you to discuss the details of the request.
Choosing the right school can feel overwhelming. From private and independent schools to specialized programs and college preparatory pathways, today’s families face more options — and more pressure — than ever. In this informative and practical session, Michelle Smith, founder of Independent Education Group, shares an insider’s perspective on how schools evaluate applicants, what truly matters in admissions decisions, and how families can make thoughtful, strategic choices that align with their child’s strengths, values, and long-term goals.
Participants will learn:
• How to identify the right academic and cultural fit
• What admissions teams really look for
• How to reduce stress during the application process
• When to start planning (and how early is too early)
• Ways to position students authentically and confidently
This talk is ideal for parents who want clarity, strategy, and a personalized approach to their child’s education journey.
Today’s students face more academic choices — and more pressure — than ever before. Honors tracks, AP and dual enrollment courses, private and independent schools, extracurricular expectations, and increasingly competitive college admissions can leave families wondering: Are we making the right decisions at the right time?
In this practical and empowering session, education consultant Michelle Smith, founder of Independent Education Group, guides Phoenix-area families through the full academic journey — from early planning in middle school to high school course strategy, leadership development, and thoughtful college preparation.
Families will gain clarity on:
• How to map out an intentional academic plan year by year
• When to accelerate — and when not to
• Choosing between public, charter, and private school
pathways
• Building strong transcripts without burnout
• Balancing academics, activities, and well-being
• Positioning students authentically for college admissions
This talk helps parents move from uncertainty to strategy, ensuring students grow not only as strong applicants, but as confident, capable young adults. Ideal for families with students in grades 5–11.
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