Many schools feel pressure to include enrollment targets in their strategic plans—but what if leaving them out leads to greater success? This session explores how Lake Forest Country Day School (LFCDS) created a strategic plan with no specific enrollment goals. Instead, it focused on four mission-driven priorities: enhancing community, deepening academic quality, retaining outstanding teachers, and ensuring long-term sustainability. The result was a clear, values-based roadmap that reinforced the school’s identity—without chasing headcount. LFCDS has historically sustained healthy enrollment through strong retention, accessible marketing, and a commitment to its values. By focusing on the program, people, and culture, the school has naturally drawn families aligned with its mission. Representatives from the LFCDS Leadership and Strategic Planning Teams will share how “being strategic about enrollment” doesn’t have to mean prescribing numbers. They’ll discuss how the plan was developed, why long-term value was prioritized over short-term gains, and what lessons emerged from the process. The internal response has been overwhelmingly positive—trustees, faculty, and parents have embraced the plan’s authenticity and clarity. It’s become a touchstone in the school’s brand narrative, helping convey its values to prospective families. This case study highlights the power of aligning strategy with mission. Attendees will gain a fresh perspective on strategic planning and enrollment management, seeing how schools can achieve sustainable growth by focusing on what makes them strong—rather than setting arbitrary enrollment targets.