AugLM2022

Message From the Executive Director IASA’s 58th Annual ConferenceWill Feature Top-Notch Speakers and Illinois Superintendents

Dr. Brent Clark

On August 4, Damon West shared his inspiring message with arguably the top college football program in the country and my personal favorite team—the Alabama Crimson Tide. Forty-seven days from now, he will be in Springfield captivating school administrators with his story of redemption, grit and determination. Without question, the talent of keynote speakers at IASA’s 58th Annual Conference is top notch. West will headline the Second General Session and Chris Singleton will be the keynote speaker at the First General Session. Chris has also spoken to audiences across the country, sharing his powerful story about how love is stronger than hate. On page 8, you can learn more about Damon and Chris in our conference spread. However, the IASA Annual Conference is also about highlighting our own members— and we have a talented group of superintendents taking the stage this year. Dr. Steve Webb leads Goreville CUSD #1. He was named the 2022 Illinois Superintendent of the Year. However, anybody who knows Dr. Webb recognizes his passion for school safety. In the Fourth General Session, Dr. Webb will share his insights on emergency preparedness and motivating ourselves to better understand today in order to teach for tomorrow. In the Closing General Session, we once again welcome three Illinois superintendents to the main stage. The speakers will be Dr. Jenna Woodland, Superintendent of Evergreen Park ESD #124; Adam Dean, Superintendent of Triopia CUSD #27; Dr. Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat, Superintendent of Peoria SD #150. Each will share insights into their personal journey and leave you with an inspiring message about leadership.

Registration is now open! I look forward to seeing everyone in Springfield for three days of connecting, learning and getting recharged for the school year. Speaking of school, many districts across the state welcomed students back and others are preparing to open their doors soon. By and large, this school year will look and feel the most normal since buildings were closed in March 2020. However, the challenges facing districts continue to be elevated. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted learning and many students, especially from low-income households, have fallen behind and need extra academic support. I’m encouraged by the innovation happening across the state to address these challenges and can’t wait to learn more at the Annual Conference and at region meetings. One option to consider to address the lost instructional time is Renaissance, an IASA Gold Level Corporate Partner. At the most recent Board of Directors meeting, Renaissance gave a presentation focused on foundational literacy skills. The presentation was well received by the Board, and we made the decision to bring it to a wider audience by hosting a free webinar on August 29 at 9 a.m. The webinar, presented by Dr. Gene Kerns, will review new research from Renaissance that sheds more light on the total journey of literacy acquisition. Click Here to register. Have a great school year and don’t forget to register for the IASA Annual Conference.

Roll Tide!

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