LM August 2024

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.

14 LM August 2024