LM Jan 2025

Professional Learning

Dr. Dawn Bridges IASA Associate Director of Professional Learning

Building the Ecosystem for Education in Illinois: Harnessing AI for Transformational Leadership

In Action Future-Focused Learning

Education in Illinois is at a critical juncture. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), we have an opportunity to reimagine how we lead, teach and prepare our students for a world defined by rapid innovation. But this transformation is not just about adopting technology; it’s about cultivating an educational ecosystem where all stakeholders — students, educators, administrators, and communities — thrive. At IASA, we recognize the critical role of superintendents and district leaders in navigating this shift, and we are excited to support professional learning opportunities that will empower you to lead your districts confidently into this AI-transformed era. Creating a Collaborative Ecosystem An ecosystem is more than its individual parts — it is the synergy between them that drives growth. In education, this means aligning our efforts from the boardroom to the classroom and beyond. Integrating AI into this framework allows us to enhance efficiency, foster innovation and meet the diverse needs of today’s learners. By embracing this ecosystem approach, we ensure that our schools are resilient, adaptable and equipped to navigate the challenges of an ever-changing world. Sustained Professional Development: A Cornerstone for Success The foundation of a thriving educational ecosystem is profes sional development that goes beyond one-time events. True transformation requires sustained, collaborative learning that evolves over time. This January, we are launching a journey of professional learning focused on AI, beginning with our Super Region workshops. Led by Dr. Bill Daggett and myself, these workshops will provide a blend of cutting-edge research and actionable strategies to support both classroom innovation and district operations. These sessions are more than workshops — they are opportunities to cultivate shared vision and collective action. They mark the first steps in a series of professional development

initiatives designed to help districts and our state build capacity and align efforts with the Vision 2030 framework. By investing in ongoing learning, we are not just preparing for the future; we are shaping it. Aligning with Vision 2030 Vision 2030 serves as our roadmap for building a robust and interconnected ecosystem for education across Illinois. This strategic initiative emphasizes collaboration, equity, and innova tion, ensuring that every district has the tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. The integration of AI into this vision reinforces our commitment to preparing students for a future that is both challenging and full of opportunity. Together, we are not just adapting to change but leading it. The Power of Collective Leadership This journey is not one we undertake alone. The strength of an ecosystem lies in its connections. By bringing teams to our workshops, district leaders can create the shared understanding and alignment needed to drive meaningful change. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities, ensuring that Illinois schools remain at the forefront of educational excellence. Join the Movement I invite you to join us in this transformative journey. Together, we can harness the potential of AI to build an ecosystem where every learner and leader thrives. Through sustained professional development and collective vision, we are shaping a future that reflects the highest aspirations of Vision 2030 and the incredible possibilities of our interconnected world. Let’s lead the way forward, building not just better schools, but stronger, more resilient ecosystems for education across Illinois. I look forward to collaborating with you and your teams as we embark on this exciting new chapter for students.

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LM Jan 2025