24340 AnnRept 2025 - FINAL v2

Message From the President

None of our accomplishments would be possible without the exceptional IASA staff who work tirelessly to support administrators across Illinois. I want to extend special recognition to Dr. Brent Clark, our Executive Director, for his outstanding leadership and support throughout the year, and to Dr. Roger Alvey, IASA Past President, for his invaluable guidance and mentorship as I stepped into this role. I also want to thank Cherry Middleton, our Director of Operations and Facilities, whose dedication behind the scenes ensures that our organization runs seamlessly. Together, they exemplify the commitment of our entire IASA team, who provide unmatched support through legal assistance, professional development, legislative advocacy, and countless other services that strengthen our leadership capabilities. As superintendents, we entered this profession to make a difference—to shape not only the lives of students but also the futures of our communities. The challenges we face are real, but so is our capacity to overcome them. Through IASA, we have the tools, support, and collective strength needed to continue advancing public education in Illinois. Thank you for the honor of serving as your President. Together, we will continue building on the foundation of excellence that defines Illinois public education, always keeping our students at the center of everything we do. I wish my successor, Dr. Scott Doerr all the best as he assumes the presidency in July. Our association is in good hands and I look forward to support Dr. Doerr throughout his term.

As I reflect on my year serving as President of the Illinois Association of School Administrators, I am grateful for the opportunity to lead an organization dedicated to advancing public education

in Illinois. This experience has allowed me to connect with superintendents across the state and build meaningful relationships that strengthen our collective work in education. The superintendency continues to present us with complex challenges—from addressing learning recovery and mental health needs to navigating budget constraints and workforce shortages. Yet, through each obstacle, our North Star remains unchanged: doing what is best for students. This guiding principle has shaped every decision and initiative we have pursued as an association this year. One of our most significant accomplishments has been our continued advocacy for Illinois Vision 2030, a comprehensive blueprint designed to transform public education across our state. This legislative initiative represents our collective commitment to creating a system that better serves diverse learners, attracts talented professionals to education, redefines student success, and ensures sustainable funding for our schools. The progress we have made on Vision 2030 demonstrates the power of unified advocacy and our shared dedication to systemic improvement. The highlight of my year was undoubtedly our Annual Conference, where I had the privilege of connecting with superintendents, administrators, and education leaders from across Illinois. Meeting new colleagues and reconnecting with longtime friends reinforced the strength of our educational community and reminded me why I am so passionate about public education—the dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to students that defines our profession.

4

Dr. Anthony Scarsella IASA President 2024–2025

4