LM Feb 2024

Education Elevat g

Ganan ... cont’d. find an indicator in the students’ native language to help schools have more accurate data to measure where students are at.” Dr. Ganan’s research, published in the “International Education” and “Learning Review,” was utilized by districts to develop a better performance indicator to gauge if ELL students needed additional support in their native language or were ready to transition to success on a high-stakes second language assessment. He also had the privilege to speak both nationally and internationally on the topic. The research was one way Dr. Ganan has worked to improve the educational environment for students who do not speak English as their first language. At La Grange SD #105, the district has been implementing the Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) model, a research-based method of instruction that addresses the academic needs of English Language Learners (ELLs). The goal of the SIOP model is to deliver instruction that works for ELLs without watering down the lesson content, thereby creating a more effective and potentially bilingual classroom setting that can work for native English speakers and ELLs. Collaboration is also central to Dr. Ganan’s leadership style. He works closely with the seven other superintendents whose districts feed into Lyons Township HSD #204 to help ensure students have a successful transition to high school. In addition, he is a member of the West Suburban Consortium for Academic Excellence. The group of suburban school administrators create different opportunities for students, including a Student Leadership Conference. “There are some kids who don’t see themselves as leaders,” Dr. Ganan said. “This is a way for us to tap them on the shoulder, invite them to this event and say we know there is a leader inside of you.” Also at La Grange SD #105, Dr. Ganan is proud to champion efforts to promote student voice in district matters, including the selection of a food service provider. Strategic planning is also vital and integrated into the fabric of the district. “Our Strategic Plan is a living document, and we consistently keep those priorities at the forefront and have feedback loops for teachers and students to ensure we continue to be aligned with our mission,” Dr. Ganan said. Lastly, La Grange SD #105 has adopted the Responsive Classroom Model, an evidence-based approach to teaching that focuses on the strong link between academic success and social-emotional learning (SEL).

Empen ... cont’d.

defense. Before any flying starts, students are required to build, program and repair the drone to get to know it better. Empen said drone soccer teaches students aviation, career planning, coding, engineering, teamwork and, most of all, fun. “I am fortunate to have a staff filled with creative people that push themselves to inspire students to pursue their dreams,” Empen said. Shepherding a dynamic music program has also been a highlight of Empen’s career. She recently received the Outstanding Administrator Award from the Illinois Music Association, even though she is quick to acknowledge her own musical ability is limited. “We really have a dynamic music team,” Empen said of Riley Carter, Band Director, and Erin Rodgers, Director of Choral Activities. “They work together as a team and see the value of starting an early foundation at kindergarten, which allows students to build an interest early on that they improve upon each year.” Students at Dixon USD #170 also have numerous opportunities to pursue career and technical education opportunities. Under Empen’s leadership, the district bolstered its CTE program, including creating an education, manufacturing and agriculture pathway. “We partner with the Whiteside Area Career Center and Sauk Valley Community College to expand opportunities for our students and make it possible for them to achieve industry certifications before graduating high school,” Empen said. The weight room at Dixon High School also has a different look. The high school adopted an advanced computerized program that allows students to better track growth and set goals. In addition, Empen is proud Dixon USD #170 has invested in a new curriculum for math, reading and science that is tied to modern-day best practices. “Constantly pushing for innovation and looking for ways to spark interest in students and staff is part of our school culture,” Empen said.

19 LM February 2024