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August 2024 Leadership Matters LEVERAGING LEADERSHIP ANNUAL CONFERENCE 60 th Racing Toward Excellence Register Now! September 25–27, 2024 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield—A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

ISAL VIII Cohort: Applications Now Being Accepted

AI In Education: A Superintendent's Guide Q & A

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Preview a detailed breakdown of this year’s conference schedule, including keynote speakers, Ignite presenters, breakout session topics and other events. IASA'S 60TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Education Elevat g

14 Two More District Leaders Profiled: Mark R.Cross and Jill Larson 28 Podcast Q & A With Dr. Mike Lubelfeld on AI

2025 Illinois Superintendent of the Year Application IASA Legal Corner: Illinois Personnel Record Review Act IASA Professional Learning Opportunities

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Volume 12, Issue 7 August 2024 Leadership Matters 24206

2648 Beechler Court Springfield, IL 62703– 7305 217–753–2213 800 Woodfield Road, Ste. F109 Schaumburg, IL 60173–4717 847–466–5075

Jason Nevel Director of Communications jnevel@iasaedu.org

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Marjorie Gladish Graphic Designer mgladish@iasaedu.org

1200 West Main Street Marion, IL 62959–1138 618–364–0501

www.iasaedu.org

Scan here with your phone’s QR code reader to get the IASA APP— Don’t have a QR reader? Go to or and search for IllinoisASA.

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Message From the Executive Director A New School Year Presents Opportunity For Lasting Impact

Dr. Brent Clark

At IASA, we strive to be a partner in your mission to enhance educational excellence. We offer a wide range of professional learning opportunities and have collaborated with our education partners to develop the Vision 2030 Policy Framework. The goal of the initiative is to propel Illinois forward in designing a system that better serves the needs of diverse learners, attracts new people to the profession, enhances student opportunities and continues the state toward long-term predictable funding. The Vision 2030 Framework will be unveiled in November at the Joint Annual Conference. We will once again be asking for your support in helping us make this advocacy initiative successful. More details to come. In addition, we’re about one month away from IASA’s 60th Annual Conference. The conference is a tremendous opportunity to compare ideas and strategies with other professionals. On page 4, we introduce a detailed breakdown of this year’s conference schedule, including keynote speakers, Ignite presenters, breakout session topics and other events. If you haven’t registered already, don’t wait any longer. The IASA Annual Conference is your gateway to learning about a program or initiative that can change the trajectory of your school district. I hope to see you in Springfield, Sept. 25–27.

The start of a new school year is always brimming with possibility because educators have a clean slate to put the district’s vision into action and make positive changes for students and teachers. As superintendent, your leadership sets the tone for your entire district. It starts with the first days and weeks of school, which can shape the trajectory for the rest of the year. Without question, the 2024–25 school year is pivotal for schools in Illinois. Districts have the opportunity to move the needle on growth scores in reading and math. A new year provides district leaders with the chance to put strategic plans and hard work into action, hopefully resulting in improvements in key metrics, like the graduation rate and number of students reading at grade level. Another year presents avenues to enhance career and technical education opportunities for students. Other goals we all collectively desire, like reducing chronic absenteeism and developing more resilient learners, are also in play in 2024–25. Throughout this crucial year, school leaders must continue meeting parental expectations by maintaining safe facilities and providing timely and transparent communication. In other words, the 2024–25 school year is an opportunity to showcase why public education remains a good return on investment.

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LEVERAGING LEADERSHIP ANNUAL CONFERENCE 60 th Racing Toward Excellence

Thurs., Sept. 26

Wed., Sept. 25

OPENING GENERAL SESSION 4pm

SECOND GENERAL SESSION 9:15am

THIRD GENERAL

IASA President Dr. Anthony Scarsella IASA’s President will share a thoughtful message about the importance of building relationships with peers across the state and leveraging your expertise to improve student outcomes at home. Dr. Scarsella is in his 11th year as This thought-provoking session is back by popular demand! This general session includes a series of presenters giving 5-minute presentations on a variety of topics using 20 slides. The slogan for Ignite presentations is “Enlighten us, but make it quick!” superintendent of Palos CCSD #118. Plus IGNITE

Dr. Joe Sanfelippo Lead From Where You Are The celebrated education leader and author will share a powerful message focused on how leading with intention, connection and direction can foster an environment where everyone in your organization has the best opportunity to lead from where they are. Dr. Sanfelippo, now retired, was named National Superintendent of the Year by Education Dive and was also named one of the 100 Most Influential Educators by District Administration Magazine.

While working for companies like Quaker Oats, Kraft Foods and Xerox in the 1990s, Meagan began to hear negative comments about Gen Xers. Fascinated by the behavior, she set out to debunk generational myths. Her research gave birth to thousands of presentations and a best-selling book. In her presentation, Meagan demonstrates to audiences that all generations have differences and strengths that go beyond mere age and appearance. Meagan Johnson Zap the Generation Gap!

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

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September 25–27, 2024 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield—A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Register Now!

Thurs., Sept. 26

SESSION noon

FOURTH GENERAL SESSION 3pm

State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders Illinois’ Bold Path to Educational Success Illinois’ State Superintendent will share his personal passion for public education and discuss the initiatives underway to strengthen the statewide system of support for schools and districts, build a culture of continuous improvement, and enhance outcomes for students in Illinois. Come prepared to share your feedback on accountability!

Plus: Marlon Styles Move With Ambition K-12 Dive’s 2020 Superintendent of the Year will share a joyful message of inspiration and activation that invites every educator to take courageous steps toward their personal, professional and school goals. Under Marlon’s leadership, Middletown City Schools in Ohio was awarded the ISTE Distinguished District Award in 2019.

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Register Now!

LEVERAGING LEADERSHIP Racing Toward Excellence

60 th

ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Fri., Sept. 27 CLOSING GENERAL SESSION 10am IASA Member Showcase

Dr. Crystal Johnson-Maden Rossville-Alvin CUSD #7 Since the birth of her son Gus, who was born with special needs, Dr. Johnson-Maden has gained invaluable personal and professional insights. Her presentation offers a heartfelt and transformative journey about the creation of Gus’ Gift.

Dr. John Corbett Wood Dale SD #7 In his 21 years leading Wood Dale District 7, Dr. Corbett witnessed numerous changes in education. His presentation will focus on reflection and maintaining a perspective that lends itself to professional and physical longevity.

Dr. Bhavna Sharma-Lewis Diamond Lake SD #76

Over the last decade, Dr. Sharma Lewis has transformed the culture and prioritized excellence at Diamond Lake SD #76. In her presentation, she will delve into strategies for intentional leadership, emphasizing the significance of living authentically and with purpose.

Sponsored by:

Wed., Sept. 25 PRE-CONFERENCE 9am

For the first time, IASA welcomes pickleball players of all ability levels to take part in the Pickleball Extravaganza. The event will take place on Wednesday, September 25 from 9am to Noon at Duncan Park, located at 500 N MacArthur Blvd, in Springfield. The Extravaganza is free and all are welcome to show off their skills or learn the basics of the game. Engie will generously provide the water and snacks. You are encouraged to bring your own equipment. Although, we will have a limited supply on hand. Click here to register. Inaugural IASA Pickleball Extravaganza powered by Engie

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LEVERAGING LEADERSHIP ANNUAL CONFERENCE 60 th Racing Toward Excellence

Sept. 25–27, 2024 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield— A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Wed., Sept. 25 PRE-CONFERENCE 8:30am

Registration Information The cost is $200 per academy. Sign-in will begin at 8 a.m. and the courses are scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The registration fee includes the cost of materials, lunch and entry of AA credit or PD Hours. Cancellation refunds will be granted if the IASA Office receives the cancellation notice seven days prior to the event. If notice is received less than seven days prior to the event, the registration fee will be forfeited. EARLY BIRD ACADEMY Please register for Early Bird Academies through the Register Now link at the top of these pages. If you have already registered for the Annual Conference and want to add an early-bird academy, please contact Jodi Gillespie at jgillespie@iasaedu. org or 217–753–2213.

Early Bird Academies

Generation Z: Who Are They and How Do We Lead Them (AA #4053)

School Leader Evaluation: A Growth-Focused Approach (AA #3967) This academy gives an overview of the book “Generation Z Unfiltered: Facing Nine Hidden Challenges of the Most Anxious Population,” by Tim Elmore and Andrew McPeak. Participants will learn how to identify characteristics of Generation Z; develop communication strategies and relationship skills necessary for teaching and leading Generation Z; as well as acknowledge strengths and areas for improvement in SEL and Trauma Responsiveness. Presented by: Dr. Julie Bullard, SEL Coach for ROE #30 Looking to grow your school leaders? This session will introduce you to the School Leader Evaluation Plan, a new principal evaluation tool based on the School Leader Paradigm, a research-based framework developed by the School Leader Collaborative, a group of 13 state principal associations from across the country. Grounded in research and best practices with a focus on

Hop on the Energy Bus for a Ride to a More Positive School (AA #4072) We are all feeling the stress from several education reforms that have been thrust on us. One means to combat stress is positive energy. This session will discuss Jon Gordon’s book, “The Energy Bus,” and the importance of positivity in all aspects of life. Real positivity is optimism, grit, mental toughness, and energy that delivers actual results. This training will identify how positivity does not ignore reality, but maintains the optimism and belief in order to create a better reality. This interactive academy is facilitated by Dr. Kelly Stewart, a certified Jon Gordon trainer, and will assist attendees in outlining a roadmap to bring out the best, not only in yourself, but within your schools as well. Presented by: Dr. Kelly Stewart, Retired School Superintendent the leader’s growth, this new plan piloted during the 2022–2023 school year in Illinois, meets the Illinois statutory principal evaluation requirements. The training is designed as a team learning experience for the supervisor and one or more of his or her school leaders. Presented by: Dr. Kay Dugan, Retired Assistant Superintendent

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LEVERAGING LEADERSHIP ANNUAL CONFERENCE 60 th Racing Toward Excellence Wed., Sept. 25 PRE-CONFERENCE SESSIONS Just For New Superintendents New Superintendent Meeting with Field Services Directors First year superintendents will share how their first 90 days have gone—as well as share some insight and anecdotes of what they’ve learned and what they have to look forward to for the remainder of their first year. The IASA Team will provide support, guidance, and offer suggestions based on their collective years of superintendent experience. Click here to RSVP. Presented by: IASA’s Team: Dr. Brent Clark, Dr. Dawn Bridges, Ralph Grimm, Dr. Brian Harris, Dr. Sheila Harrison-Williams, Dr. Gary Kelly, Diane Robertson, and Dr. Vic Zimmerman 10am The Next 90 Days

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Powered By Women In Leadership

1pm

Suzanne Dailey—Leading Happier This reimagined session, powered by our Women in Lead ership sponsors, is open to both female and male district leaders. Join us for an inspiring and thoughtful session, sub titled Strategies to Promote Joyful Leadership, led by national presenter Suzanne Dailey that dives deep into how small shifts in thoughts, language and actions can strengthen relationships and maximize time. Suzanne earned National Board Certifica tion and is a Fellow of the National Writing Project. She has a masters degree in reading and is the author of “Teach Happier this School Year: 40 Weeks of Inspiration & Reflection.” Sponsored by:

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September 25–27, 2024 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield—A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Register Now!

Thurs., Sept. 26 and Fri. Sept. 27 BREAKOUT SESSIONS

8am Thurs.

Fri.

• Cybersecurity—What’s in Your Toolkit? • Dual Credit: Scaling For Impact • Everything a Superintendent Needs to Know About CCRI • Happy and Successful Math Teachers in a Rural School (K–8) • ISBE Finance—Who We Are and How We Can Help! • No DSEB—No Problem! • Predictive Analytics for Future Focused Decision-Making & Student Growth • Providing Construction Management Paid Internships for High School Students • Three Districts, Three Referendums, Three Success Storie • Beyond Textbooks: A Superintendent’s Guide to Creating Trauma-Informed Schools • Creating a Culture Where Educators Thrive • Developing a Mutual Aid Network to Standardize Reunification Protocols • Emotional Intelligence: Don’t Go to School Without It • 4 Keys to Success • Mastering Internal and External Communications • Morale Has Never Been Lower! What Does That Mean and How Do I Improve It? • Removing Barriers to Career Pathways • Unapologetically Bold

• Building Bridges Between Diverse Communities • Choose to Thrive...Bringing Meaningful SEL for Staff and Students to Your District • First Steps of PLC Work • Hiring and Sustaining Black Educators • Leveraging Technology & Instructional Coaching for Deeper Student Engagement • Students Leading: Using Students to Direct Your Focus Groups • Sunsetting Your Superintendency • United to Provide Comprehensive Mental Health Services for Students

8:30am

Thurs.

Sponsored by:

1:45pm

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LEVERAGING LEADERSHIP ANNUAL CONFERENCE 60 th Racing Toward Excellence

Thank You!

The IASA Annual Conference would not be possible without the generous support of our School Service Members. On behalf of the entire IASA community, it is with sincere gratitude that we acknowledge our 2024 IASA Annual Conference supporters: Legacy Sponsors

Premier Sponsors

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Register Now!

September 25–27, 2024 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield—A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Thurs. Sept. 26 THIRD GENERAL SESSION–BREAKDOWN OF IGNITE SPEAKERS–Noon

5-Minute Presentation; 20 Slides “Enlighten Us, But Make It Quick!”

Dr. Dan Stecken Seneca Twp HSD #160 A Stressed Leaders Journey

Dr. Victoria H. Stockton Bellwood SD #88

Travis Duley Paxton-Buckley-Loda CUSD #10

Tackling the Teacher Shortage from Within

Navigating a Path to Success: Supporting, Empowering, and Celebrating New Professionals

Dr. Omar Castillo Keeneyville SD #20 Embracing Newcomer Families

Dr. Tammy Beckham Spring Garden CCSD #178 Building Stronger Schools Through Stakeholder Involvement

Mark Jontry ROE #17

Dr. Wes Olson Bond County CUSD #2 Leading in Tumultuous Times

Bridging the Gap: Serving Students with Internalizing Mental Health Needs

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LEVERAGING LEADERSHIP ANNUAL CONFERENCE 60 th Racing Toward Excellence

Sept. 25–27, 2024 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield— A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Register Now!

Wed., Sept. 25 and Thurs. Sept. 26 RECEPTIONS

EXHIBIT HALL OPEN ONE DAY ONLY!

IASA Welcoming Reception Come join us as we celebrate at the IASA Welcoming Reception in the BOS Center Main Hall. This event will give you time to reconnect with your colleagues from around the state.

6pm Wed.

Thurs. 9am–2pm

Don’t miss your opportunity to visit the Exhibitor Area on the Main Floor and get a quick look at the latest products and services available to Illinois school districts. Coffee breaks will be available inside the hall. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to noon and is complimentary for all conference attendees.

Sponsored by:

IASA President’s Reception Come together with your colleagues and IASA President Dr. Anthony Scarsella for a reception in the President Abraham Lincoln

9pm Thurs.

Hotel Ballroom. This year's theme is the Kentucky Derby. Dress up in your hat and derby attire and join us for

Attire Wed.–Thurs., Business Professional Fri., School Casual

an enjoyable event with music provided by a DJ.

We hope to see you there!

Sponsored by:

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FOR 20% DISCOUNT, USE PARTNER CODE * : IASA2024

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Extract positive messages through a more accurate analysis of Illinois state report card data, all in two turn-key and easy-to-understand PDFs for board and community reporting. Let the experts at ECRA provide a simple-to-understand analysis that can be immediately shared with the board and community by a trusted third party. Illinois Report Card Analysis

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*20% discount is applicable to first-time purchases of each individual report

Education Elevat g

We continue our series highlighting tremendous educators across Illinois who have given their time and energy to ele vating the superintendency and public education as a whole. Each month, we will feature two educators who are going the extra mile and truly making a difference beyond their school districts and local communities. While we are aware of many of the contributions administrators are making, we are open to any suggestions for some one to feature next month. To make a recommendation, contact Jason Nevel, IASA Director of Communications, at jnevel@iasaedu.org or by calling 217–753–2213. Jill Larson New Berlin CUSD # 16 Mark R. Cross Cass School District # 63

Who: Jill Larson, superintendent What: Worked collaboratively with the union to develop a robust mentoring program for new teachers; Partnered with Education Lane to improve math instruction; Overseeing the construction of a new Junior/ Senior High School; Member of IASA Professional Development Committee; Executive Council Chair

Who: Mark R. Cross, Superintendent What: Led targeted strategic planning toward common goals; Worked with the Board and leadership team to facilitate growth in the areas of district communications, student services, social and emotional learning and STEAM; Reformed district finances and cooperatively developed long-term

facility plans, leading to successful building referenda in two districts; Enhanced district safety and security, as well as improved efficiency through geothermal energy; Mentor to new superintendents; Chair of the Board of Directors for the School Association for Special Education in DuPage County (SASED) and serves on the Executive Board for the national Federal Land Impacted Schools Association (FLISA); Vision 20/20 Task Force. Where: Cass School District 63, DuPage Region When: Superintendent for 22 years, including five years at Cass SD #63 and previously for 15 years at Peru ESD #124 and two years at Spring Valley CCSD #99. Why: The opportunity and responsibility to enact meaningful and lasting change has remained a driving force for Mark Cross in his 22 years as superintendent. “As leaders, we have to be all in for our students and our district, have a positive growth mindset and always find ways

of Capital Area Career Center and Sangamon Area Special Education District. Where: New Berlin CUSD #16, Abe Lincoln Region When: Superintendent for 11 years, including at New Berlin CUSD #16 since 2020 and superintendent of Tri City CUSD #1 for six years prior. Why: “The best thing about being a teacher is that it matters. The hardest thing about being a teacher is that it matters every day.” The quote, from respected educator and national speaker Todd Whitaker, is one of Jill Larson’s favorites because it emphasizes the critical role teachers play in the lives of students. At New Berlin CUSD #16, Larson has strived to model that philosophy by creating a culture where teachers feel valued and supported while also being equipped with the skills to utilize best practices in the classroom.

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Education Elevat g

Larson ... cont’d. In collaboration with the union, Larson developed a robust mentoring program for new and early-career teachers as well as any teacher who receives an evaluation rating of Needs Improvement. To facilitate the mentoring program, the district pays three lead mentors stipends to work with designated teachers. The mentors collaborate with participants on curriculum development, analyzing data, engaging in continuous learning and collaboration skills. A partnership with Education Lane has also been transformative because it has shifted the way math is taught by emphasizing backwards mapping. “We want our new teachers to be mentored, coached and to be able to problem solve,” Larson said. Another layer of support New Berlin CUSD #16 provides is an extended new teacher orientation. The district of about 850 students just west of Springfield allots four days before the start of the school year for the professional learning opportunity. “Our philosophy is we try to hire the best teacher or coach our educators to be the best teachers,” Larson said. “We have seen success by spending significant time with new teachers before the start of the year.” Professional development at New Berlin CUSD #16 is a joint effort. The work is a shared responsibility between administration, teachers and consultants. “We don’t want the weight to fall on administrators and believe our teachers are often best equipped to lead the presentation,” Larson said. Larson is overseeing major additions and renovations at the New Berlin Junior/Senior High School. The project will provide modern learning spaces, a renovated gymnasium, new band and chorus facilities, a commons area and a career suite. “There hadn’t been much work done since 1970, so it was expensive to simply maintain,” Larson said. “With the support of the community through a referendum, the new facility will greatly improve the environment for our students and staff. We want everyone to feel part of, and invested in, being a member of the (New Berlin) Pretzel family.”

Cross ... cont’d.

to bring everyone together toward clear and shared goals,” Cross said. “People may not always agree, but they will almost always come together and move forward when there is clarity with the vision and direction at the district level.” At both Peru ESD #124 and Cass SD #63, Cross led successful referendums that resulted in dramatic improvements to facilities. In the first, at Peru ESD #124, Cross worked with the school board, mayor and city council to develop a unique sales tax agreement that fully funded a new state of the art middle school and eventually led to a complete rebuild of all district schools. With the funding arrangement in place, the referendum passed in 2007 by a 4:1 margin. The district moved from three crowded and outdated buildings, to two modern and spacious schools for the students and community, all of which was done without a property tax increase. “It took some teamwork and out-of-the-box thinking to get there, but the community continues to be very proud of the schools,” Cross said. “Certainly, the most important thing is the magic that takes place in the buildings, but it sure helps when the facilities provide the perfect environment to allow that magic to happen.” When he arrived at Cass SD #63 in DuPage County in the midst of the pandemic in 2020, Cross was tasked by the Board, despite a tight budget, with updating outdated HVAC systems. Cross led an effort to improve district finances and develop a long-term facilities plan that resulted in the passage of a referendum in 2022. “It is, and was, a challenging time to ask for a tax increase, but the support of our community is so transformational with the new geothermal system in our schools, not to mention the enhancements to safety and security,” Cross said. “We are really proud of our growth and progress in District 63.” Throughout his two decades as superintendent, Cross has led targeted strategic planning and facilitated growth in the areas of district communications, student services, social and emotional learning and STEAM. He is a strong believer in providing clear direction, communicating openly and transparently. “I am a planner and a communicator but, ultimately, I feel that my role is to clear a path and support the people with jobs far more important than mine,” Cross said. “This includes our teachers, school service personnel and building administrators, as they are the ones working directly with our kids every day. Teaching is a hard enough job today, so whatever we can reasonably do to support them in their roles is not something that is hard for me to align with as a leader.”

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2025 Illinois Superintendent Of The Year Application

Click Here to Apply

Applying for Illinois Superintendent of the Year has never been easier! IASA has designed its own online application and is no longer using the AASA portal. Any superintendent can apply for Illinois

Superintendent of the Year. Illinois Selection Criteria Each candidate is judged on the following criteria: —How is your district elevating student success in the areas of academics, high school preparedness, college and career readiness and social-emotional support? —How is your district improving the quality of teaching and learning?

Student Success

Teacher Success District Success Community Success Involvement with IASA

—How has your leadership pushed your district forward? —In what ways have you given back to your community? —How involved are you with IASA?

Application Information and Procedures

Code of Ethics/ Acknowledgement Form

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Legal Corner

Chad Watkins IASA Associate Director/General Counsel

To help school leaders navigate uncertain times, IASA has partnered with leading law firms throughout Illinois to provide districts with critical guidance during the 2024–25 school year. In Leadership Matters , the IASA Legal Corner will showcase an article written by attorneys who specialize in legal matters related to education. It is our hope you find the content insightful, timely and helpful in addressing the critical matters you face.

This issue, attorneys from Robbins Schwartz share their insights on the Illinois Personnel Record Review Act. As a reminder, IASA Legal Corner articles are provided for informational purposes only, and you are advised to contact your district counsel for legal advice. Click on the link below to access the article.

Significant Amendment to Illinois Personnel Record Review Act Coming January 1, 2025

First, the amendment clarifies that any request by an employee to inspect, copy, or receive their personnel records must be in writing. A “written request” includes electronic communications, such as emails or text messages. The amendment requires that in order to be valid under the Act, the employee’s written request must... (continue reading)...

On August 2, 2024, Governor Pritzker signed into law Public Act 103-0727, which amends the Illinois Personnel Record Review Act. The amendment refines the requirements for making a valid personnel record request and expands employers’ obligations when turning over an employee’s personnel records. The amendment goes into effect on January 1, 2025.

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Membership Drive FY 2025

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS

RENEW OR JOIN IASA TODAY

OR

Online Registration FY 2025 Now Available here.

Download here and print your copy of the IASA Active Membership Invoice for 2025

TO ALL SUPERINTENDENTS:

Have you changed your email address? @

Will you be retiring this year?

Are you a new superintendent?

Will you be changing districts this year?

Please let us know your status change immediately. We don’t want you to miss any important IASA news or information!

If you have questions about IASA membership, contact Ashleigh Knudson at 217–753–2213, or aknudson@iasaedu.org by September 1, 2024.

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School Service Membership

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS

DOES YOUR COMPANY SEEK MORE VISIBILITY AMONG IASA MEMBERS? Supporting IASA via School Service Membership is your entry point to IASA and our members! Maximize your marketing dollars and gain visibility with more than 1,000 school superintendents and administrators in Illinois. You gain:

IASA Membership Directory: Annual publication, available in print and online, includes contact information for all Illinois public school district

Exhibiting Opportunities Be an exhibitor at the IASA Annual Conference, which attracts more than 650 school administrators to Springfield in September.

Advertising Opportunities School Service members can advertise in the Membership Directory, Annual Report, Superintendent’s Toolkit, Eye on Education, etc.

IASA Illinois Education Job Bank: Post job listings on Illinois’ premier education job site.

superintendents and other key personnel.

If you have any questions on IASA membership, please contact Ashleigh Knudson at 217–753–2213 or aknudson@iasaedu.org.

Upgrade to IASA’S Corporate Partner Program. IASA Corporate Partners enjoy School Service Member benefits plus enhanced opportunities for facetime with IASA members. By becoming an IASA Corporate Partner, you significantly increase your visibility with those who make the daily purchasing decisions that affect their schools. Sponsorship opportunities include: WANT EVEN MORE VISIBILITY?

Silver Level Gold Level Platinum Level President’s Circle Level School Service Membership LEVELS OF VISIBILITY:

IASA Annual Conference Whether it’s the conference program, app, website or an in-person event, multiple sponsorship opportunities are available.

Receptions Sponsoring a reception at an IASA event is the perfect opportunity to gain visibility with IASA members in person.

IASA Publications and Podcast Gain recognition by

IASA Events Throughout the year, IASA hosts various academies, workshops, webinars and other events that attract hundreds of superintendents.

Video Library and IASA App Increase visibility by sponsoring IASA’s Video Library or the IASA App, which are utilized daily by IASA members across the state.

sponsoring or advertising in Eye on Education daily news brief, Annual Report, Superintendent’s Toolkit, Membership Directory, or the IASA Podcast.

Contact Cherry Middleton at 217–753–2213 or at cmiddleton@iasaedu.org for more information on Corporate Partnership.

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Professional Learning

Dr. Dawn Bridges IASA Associate Director of Professional Learning

It is a tremendous honor to join the IASA team and contribute to the development of professional learning programs for school district leaders. One of the aspects of professional learning I am most excited about is IASA’s cohort learning model. Two years ago, IASA expanded our offerings after hearing feedback from the field that there weren’t any cohorts available for assistant superintendents and other central office administrators. That feedback sparked the creation of Level Up Leadership, a two-year program designed to provide Assistant Superintendents and other Central Office administrators with experiences that build exemplary leadership, knowledge, and skill sets essential for ensuring successful student

this message or for superintendents to pass along this information to anyone in your district who would benefit from this opportunity. Our goal is for participants to walk away with practical and tangible ideas they can take back to their daily work. The deadline to apply for Level Up is October 15 , with the first session beginning December 11–12. Here is a closer look at the schedule: Meeting Dates Participants will meet every three months in person at the IASA headquarters in Springfield. The first session will be Dec. 10 from 4 to 6 p.m and a full day on Dec. 11. The other sessions will be 1 ½ days (half day, followed by full day).

learning at the local level while providing an opportunity to connect with, and learn from, other leaders with similar positions across the state of Illinois. Registration is now open for IASA’s

Year One 2024–25 • December 10–11 • March 19–20 • June 10–11

Year Two 2025-26 • Sept. 9–10, 2025 • January 27–28, 2026 • March 10–11, 2026 • May 13, 2026

second Level Up cohort. Given the tremendous feedback we received from participants in the initial Level Up cohort, I urge any central office staff reading

IASA Offering Initial and Retraining Academies for Principal and Teacher Evaluation, Student Growth Need Evaluator Credits?

If you or anyone in your district is in need of evaluator training to fulfill state requirements, IASA has you covered. Multiple sessions are being offered in FY 2025.

info•register

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Health Life Safety Compliance An Administrator’s Guide to the Fundamentals AA #3700

Professional Learning The purpose of this academy is to provide administrators and other school personnel with an in-depth look at, and discovery into, topics related to Health Life Safety and Compliance. Uniquely, the presenters provide both perspectives on the issue: Ralph Grimm presents the school superintendent’s

view, and Pat Durley, the regional superintendents. Upcoming dates: Sept. 12, March 6 and May 29.

info•register

Illinois School Code 1992

Are You Meeting School Code? Illinois School

Code 2024 Help is here.

Administrator’s Guide to Achieving School Code Compliance AA 3972

2024

Illinois School Code 2022

Professional Learning

This academy will guide Administrators and district personnel through a working session and in-depth overview of the topics and processes related to meeting School Code Compliance requirements through ISBE, ROEs, and ISCs. Upcoming dates: Oct. 3 and Jan. 9. info•register

Safety Site Assessment Basic CPTED Principles AA #3858

SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

This academy focuses on how districts can take an annual standards-based approach to assessing the security of school buildings, grounds and policies. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) provides the framework for conducting safety site assessments based on

industry standards. This academy is open to superintendents as well as building and central office administrators. Presented by Dr. Roger Alvey and Dr. George McKenna. Upcoming dates: Sept. 20, Oct. 29, Nov. 6, Dec. 2 and Jan.13 info•register

The Power of Positive Teams AA 3927 Leadership Strand

Investing in your team’s success and well-being is a game-changer for your organization’s growth. Register now for this IASA workshop based on the proven principles of Jon Gordon’s best-selling book, The Power of Positive Teams (POPT). Participants will learn proven strategies and practices to help build a stronger, more united, and connected team. Upcoming dates: Oct. 4 and Jan. 10.

info•register

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OCTOBER WORKSHOPS FOR EARLY-CAREER SUPERINTENDENTS, ADMINISTRATORS

Tax Levy Basics:

Preparing & Filing the Tax Levy Certificate

Preparing and filing the tax levy certificate may well be one of the most important tasks a district superintendent must complete on an annual basis. Understanding the cycle is

crucial to completing this annual task correctly and on time. Upcoming dates: Oct. 7–16. info•register

Leadership Strand Why Your Why Matters AA 1445

New presenter Dr. Dawn Bridges’ version of this academy coaches participants to reconnect with their reasons for becoming and remaining educators, to learn to connect more deeply with and support their colleagues and team members, and ultimately to re-confirm their commitment to educating students and improving schools. Participants will examine their own motivations and current social emotional condition,

learn those of their colleagues and—through sharing, discussion and role playing—acquire and practice strategies to coach themselves and team members into healthier social-emotional states. Upcoming dates: Oct. 9, Feb. 26 and June 18.

info•register

Leadership Strand

The Power of Positive Leadership AA 3730 The research is clear. Being a positive leader is not just a nice way to lead. It’s the way to lead if you want to build a great culture, unite your organization in the face of adversity, develop a connected and committed team and achieve

superior goals. This IASA workshop is designed to provide you with actionable strategies to create a culture of trust, empowering you to lead with authenticity and ignite a sense of purpose within your team. Upcoming dates: Oct. 10, Jan. 8 and April 11.

info•register

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Leadership Strand Hop on Board the Energy Bus for a Ride to a More Positive School AA 4072

We are all feeling the stress from several education reforms that have been thrust upon us. One means to combat stress is positive energy. Jon Gordon’s book “The Energy Bus,” discusses the importance of positivity in all aspects of life. Real positivity is about optimism, grit, mental toughness, and energy that delivers actual results. Positivity doesn’t ignore reality. It maintains optimism and belief in order to create a better reality. This interactive academy facilitated

by Dr. Kelly Stewart, a certified Jon Gordon Companies trainer, will provide a roadmap to bring out the best, not only in yourself, but within your schools as well. Upcoming dates: Oct. 11 and Feb. 7.

info•register

Problem-Solving and Collective Bargaining Using an Interest-Based Approach AA 3782

Professional Development

This academy will provide Administrators, Board Members and Association (Union) Members with an in-depth overview of the concepts included in the Interest-Based Bargaining method that can be used as problem-solving techniques as well. Specifically, the course provides

participants information on the three main components of Interest-Based Bargaining: Training, “Communication Lab” and Bargaining. Upcoming dates: Oct. 17, Feb. 6 and Feb. 27. info•register

Leadership Strand Leadership Requirements for Moving From Good to Great AA 481

Some schools and school districts are good; some are great. What is the difference and what does it take to move an institution from good to great? The focus of this course is on leadership and behavioral

characteristics that enable leaders to identify and accomplish their goals of moving from Good to Great. Upcoming dates: Oct. 17, Jan. 15 and April 9. info•register

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Leadership Strand Women in Leadership: Learning, Leading & Living AA 3665

Whether its struggles to balance family responsibilities, higher expectations and scrutiny in the workplace or underrepresentation, female school leaders contin ue to face unique challenges. This IASA academy, presented by Dr. Courtney Orzel, is intended to help women leaders confront fears, boost confidence and forge a support network that will help you thrive in your leadership role. Even if you’ve taken this academy before, join us again for new research on Women in the Workplace as well as other new resources, activities and connections for 2024–25. Upcoming dates: Oct. 22 and Jan. 23. info•register

PERA, Evaluations and SB7/RIF: Putting It All Together

info•register cycle including the PERA Joint Committee, the SB7/ RIF Committee and the timelines in which each of these committees must complete their work. Upcoming dates: Oct. 24, Oct. 25, Oct. 30 and Nov. 1.

The evaluation, retention and dismissal of your staff is really a series of interconnected steps that create a cycle that must be followed each year. This workshop is designed for early career Superintendents and other administrators who would benefit from a practical, immediately useful refresher course on this essential topic. Information will be shared on each step of the

IASA Academy

THE UNFINISHED LEADER: A School Leadership Framework for Growth & Development AA#3896

School of Professional Development

There is no such thing as the BEST version of yourself, there is only the NEXT version of yourself. You have to be driven deeply by something, believe that you have a legacy to leave and admit you are unfinished. This IASA Academy led by Dr. Michael

Lubelfeld and Dr. Nick Polyak serves as a guidepost to help leaders understand that we are all works in progress. Upcoming dates: Oct. 24 and April 17. info•register

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Navigating Superintendent & School Board Relationships AA#3998

Professional Development

The purpose of this academy is to provide participants with an in-depth overview of the topics related to navigating the relationship necessary to lead a school district successfully. This academy will offer tools and strategies for leaders to develop the skills needed to successfully navigate the relationship between the Superintendent and School Board.

Included in this academy will be an overview of the policies, processes, reflections, and tools needed to foster, build, and create positive school district relationships. Upcoming dates: Oct. 30 and April 8. info•register

Leadership Strand Adaptive Leadership: Dealing With Change AA 1825

There are always new practices and strategies being discovered that will enable students to be more engaged and to learn better. However, teachers are not necessarily quick to change their practices. How do we, as administrators, challenge and encourage teachers to be open-minded to new practices and strategies for learning?

This IASA Academy led by Dr. Gary Zabilka will help leaders think more clearly and execute better in a shifting environment. Upcoming dates: Dec. 4 and March 12. info•register

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Need Help With Compliance?

licensure

mandates

RISK MANAGEMENT

CERTIFICATIONS

TRAINING

audits

restrictions

reports

requisites



TORT FUNDS

employment

ISBE Systems

grants

regulations

RECORDS

IASA Compliance Plus Provides On-Demand and Customized Support

Renewed for 2nd Year

Supports offered include: • Navigating ISBE financial systems and website. • Templates and checklists. • Systems for tracking licensure requirements and mandates. • Support and guidance on employment requirements. • Expenditure report assistance. • IARSS Electronic Compliance Instrument/probe.

IASA launched Compliance Plus last year to help districts save time and navigate ISBE and ROE compliance more efficiently. What participants found was the program extended well beyond compliance, helping district leaders maximize transportation claims, utilize indirect costs and implement more streamlined procedures. Based on overwhelmingly positive feedback, IASA Compliance Plus is returning for the 2024–25 school year. Sign up today to be among the 40 districts that have access to facilitators Cheryl Graff, former Regional Superintendent, and Robert Wolfe, former Chief Financial Officer at ISBE. Cheryl and Robert provide on-demand and customized support to your questions on a wide range of matters dealing with school finance and compliance. Cost Flat rate of $5,200 per district. This service will likely align with your district’s Risk Management Plan, making tort funds available. Contact your district’s legal counsel.

Facilitators

• Cheryl Graff served as Regional Superintendent in ROE #30 for 6 1 /2 years before retiring. • Robert Wolfe recently retired from ISBE after 33-plus years as Chief Financial Officer.

Availability

Exclusively to the first 40 districts who confirm interest and intent of payment for this additional IASA membership service.

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Participants Share How Compliance Plus Benefitted Their Districts:

Dr. Roger Alvey, Superintendent, Illini Bluffs CUSD #327, Central Illinois Valley Region

• Generated revenue for district • Reviewed transportation claims to ensure accuracy and maximize depreciation • Saved the district numerous hours in writing responses to ISBE audit

Dr. Andrea Guerrero, Superintendent, Knoxville CUSD #202, Western Region

• Provided training and guidance to small staff in rural district on complex financial matters • Helped district navigate compliance probe and develop procedure and internal controls to remain in compliance • Improved district efficiency

Jason Stabler, Superintendent, Bureau Valley CUSD #340, Starved Rock Region

• Ten-fold return on investment because applied and received grants not previously aware qualified for • Review credential status of employees • Utilized training on how district could take advantage of indirect costs

Jaclyn Kuchy, Superintendent, North Greene CUSD #3, Two Rivers Region

• Offered critical support in first year of superintendency. • Reviewed website to make sure it was in compliance. • Available to answer questions anytime.

Next Steps

Complete CompliancePLUS interest form.

Learn more about how IASA Compliance Plus has benefitted districts by watching testimonial clips (above) from past participants and then complete the Interest Form. Please note filling out the form does not lock your district into participation. IASA will follow up for confirmation and send an invoice later.

Questions? Contact Jason Nevel at jnevel@iasaedu.org or call 217–753–2213

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Q A

Q U E S T I O N S

&

A N S W E R S

AI in Education: A Superintendent’s Guide

Dr. Mike Lubelfeld, superintendent of North Shore SD #112, joined the IASA Podcast to discuss how generative AI has enhanced his communication skills and how it can be a tool for teachers to differentiate instruction. The following is a condensed and edited version of the conversation. Click here to listen to the full interview.

With Jason Nevel, IASA Director of Communications

JN: Can you start out by saying a little bit about yourself and your school district? ML: I am starting my 15th consecutive year as a superintendent. I’ve been in education for more than 32 years as a teacher, middle school administrator, assistant superintendent and a superintendent. I’ve got a wife and two kids and that’s more important than anything else. I am proud to lead North Shore School District 112 in Highland Park and Highwood. We have 4,000 students, pre–K through eighth grade. Our school district is kind of interesting because people hear Highland Park or the North Shore and think of rich, wealthy, affluent suburbs. And that’s partially true. But our demographics include 22 percent of our children who qualify for the free and reduced lunch program. That’s one in five kiddos.

JN: The topic of this interview is generative AI. Let’s begin by defining what generative AI means? ML: I have been doing a great deal of research. So, briefly, artificial intelligence has been around for decades. It has evolved into machine learning and deep learning and examples such as GPS, Siri or Alexa .

Generative AI is something new and it generates new text, it generates new audio, it could generate new images, new video or computer code based on content it’s been pre-trained on. And this is where it gets a little interesting, and a little fun, to talk about because of tools like ChatGPT. These are tools that use large language models to predict what you or I might say, read, write or want to respond with. It’s a whole new world.

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