Mergers & Acquisitions

The K-12 Independent School landscape is changing considerably, and schools are facing significant financial realities. Market trends and statistics have shown that schools fall into two categories: the “Haves” (acquirer) and the “Have Nots.” (acquired). Certainly, financial distress and leadership vacuums top the list of initial drivers to consider mergers. However, there are strategic reasons to consider merging two or more private schools. Ultimately, the decision to merge must produce a new, mission- consumed, effective, cost-efficient organization with expanded reach.

Leveraging our combined +50 years of M&A experience within the “for profit” space, and a deep K-12 Education expertise and knowledge base, we provide a deep understanding of each client School’s needs in order to seek out the right strategic partner School to enhance their capabilities or strategic objectives. From an execution perspective, we assume much of the “heavy lifting” so that our clients can continue to focus on operating and growing their Schools. We work closely with our client School to obtain the best combination of strategic fit, deal terms and cultural compatibility while minimizing business disruption and dedicating our senior resources to streamline the transaction process for our clients. Moreover, we often can help secure equity and/or debt financing to fund the acquisition.

Mergers & Acquisitions - Acquirer

When representing clients on the “Acquiring” side, we often provide the following client support:

  • Identifying potential acquisition targets and facilitating initial outreach

  • Engaging in strategic dialogue and performing initial diligence with a prioritized group of prospects

  • Constructing a valuation framework and facilitating submission of offer letters

  • Deal structuring and negotiations and preparation for closing

  • Post merger/acquisition integration planning

Mergers & Acquisitions - Acquired

When representing clients on the to be “Acquired” side, we often provide the following client support:

  • Conducting thorough pre-process financial and business due diligence

  • Crafting a compelling business narrative corroborated by both financial data and operational information

  • Preparing comprehensive marketing materials and relevant buyer/investor documents

  • Curating a client-specific list of potential “buyer” partner schools

  • Distributing marketing materials, soliciting buyer proposals and navigating the client throughout the remainder of the process

To learn more about our approach to mergers & acquisitions, click the link below:

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