From website design and social media tips to digital advertising and admission strategies, we covered a lot this year, publishing more than 150 blogs and racking up over 720K page views in 2024!

There was certainly more than enough to talk about— data-driven decision-making, enrollment and retention challenges, improving the user experience, and so much more. And if you're not subscribed to the Finalsite Blog, sign up for free and get the latest strategies, tips, insights, and more sent straight to your inbox every week. 

Now, let’s look back at the top blogs on Finalsite.com, as well as some of our can’t-miss favorites published this year.

Our Top Motivational Posts:

9 Things You Can’t (and Can) Control About School Marketing

OK, while you can't control everything in school marketing, you can shape the narrative where it counts, connect with your communities, and build a brand that stands out.​

Turning School Admissions Data into Enrollment Wisdom

Data is useless if you don’t act on it, right? Uncover the full potential of your school's admissions data and turn it into true enrollment wisdom.

Our Top AI Posts:

5 Reasons AI Won't Kill Your School's SEO (And 5 Ways It Might)

If AI is transforming how users search for answers, is keeping your school’s website updated and optimized a waste of your precious time? Check out this list, which includes AI’s impact on SEO and what you can (and can’t) do about it.

How to Boost Your School's Visibility in AI-Powered Searches

Is your school at the top of Google’s AI Overviews? As AI becomes more and more integrated into your families’ searches, here are the key strategies to optimize your school's website for AI-powered searches.​

Our Top Website Posts:

Can Your School Website's Homepage Answer These 5 Questions?

Your school's homepage is a critical factor in engagement, but your ability to answer these 5 basic questions will play a big role in your success online. Take a look!

Fixing 5 “Problems” of Mobile-first School Website Designs

Some might only see the “limitations” of a mobile-first web design. However, these are golden opportunities for schools to engage, inform, and convert users, especially if more than half access your site on a mobile device.

Destroying the Dead-ends on Your School Website

Make a U-turn when possible…A fluid, intuitive user journey is essential for schools looking to pave the way to success. Every click is a step closer to achieving your website's goals—just don’t leave users down a dead-end!

Our Top Social Media Posts:

Don’t Post That! Terrible Social Media Advice for Schools​

It can be difficult to separate the golden nuggets of social media advice from the duds. Let’s get to the facts and review what your school should be doing.

Social Media Strategies for School Advancement Offices

How can schools build relationships, share impactful stories, and encourage support without taking the air out of your school’s social media strategy?

Our Top “How-to” Posts:

How to Raise Money for Schools (without Eating Bugs)

Make a gift, eat a cricket? Sounds disgusting….How can you increase school donors and raise funds —without lowering the bar? Here's how to increase online donations while still respecting everyone involved.

Building a Mobile-Friendly Admissions Process

Intuitive navigation, fast-loading pages, and clear, concise information mean more inquiries, and users can find what they need — without frustration. Here’s how to make the most of your mobile-friendly admissions process.

And Don't Miss These Honorable Mentions!

7 Secret Strategies to Improve Your Admissions Experience

Don't overlook these subtle but powerful strategies for increasing student enrollment. With a little planning, they can transform your entire admissions experience.

Your School's Retention Problem Might Be A Communications Problem

Your school's communications tools are the anchor that keeps families feeling noticed and important from day one. Improve retention through more convenient, frequent, and personalized messaging.

An International School’s Guide for Global SEO Rankings

Whether you’re trying to reach families down the street or across the ocean, SEO is how prospective families and students will find your school.​

Thanks for reading — can't wait to see what next year brings!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Connor has spent the last decade within the field of marketing and communications, working with independent schools and colleges throughout New England. As Finalsite’s Senior Content Marketing Manager, Connor plans and executes marketing strategies and digital content across the web. A former photojournalist, he has a passion for digital media, storytelling, coffee, and creating content that connects.