LM July 2026

IASA: Let’s talk about the theme. Why did IASA choose “Founding Principles to Future Possibilities – America at 250: Leading Education’s Next Chapter”? Q: DB: With America’s 250th birthday, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on the principles that have guided public education and ask an important question: how do we prepare the next generation for a future we can’t fully predict? As leaders, we’re constantly balancing tradition with inno vation. Some things should never change — our commitment to students, public education and service. But the way we lead, the technologies we use and the opportunities we create should continue to evolve. This conference is about honoring those traditions while thinking about how we courageously design opportunities for what’s next. Q: DB: We’re kicking off with the high-energy Dr. Polyak. He’ll share lessons learned — or unlearned — from the books he’s written, drawing on his experience leading one of the top schools in Illinois. For our three superintendent keynotes, Dr. Jason Henry from Southern Illinois will talk about managing the person in the mirror. Dr. Jennifer Kelsall from Ridgewood High School District, our AASA pres ident-elect, will speak on the work worth doing. Dr. Daniel Booth, from Carbondale High School District, will share how experience shapes per spective. Dr. Patterson — a former superintendent, now ISBE Chief of Staff — will give us the statewide perspective from ISBE and help us think about where leadership needs to go and how we can support one another. IASA: We have an impressive lineup including the 2026 Illinois Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Nick Polyak, ISBE Chief of Staff Dr. Kimako Patterson, and three superintendent keynotes. Can you tell us about them and their messages?

IASA: Superintendents have busy schedules, but we really want them to stick around for Friday. How is the format for the superintendent keynotes different from Ignite, and why is it worth staying? Q: DB: The superintendent keynotes are 15 to 18 minutes each — almost triple the time of an Ignite. When I think about who would be great, I’m looking for someone with a story to tell and the respect of their peers. They’ve done a lot, they’ve been through a lot, and they continue to persevere. Being able to share their story in a keynote format is what makes Friday morning spectacular. We’re starting a little earlier, and we’ll still get you out the door by 11 a.m., but it’s a do-not-miss. Q: IASA: IASA has not DB: We have secured someone extraordinary, and that’s probably all I’m allowed to say. What I can tell you is that we intentionally looked beyond a traditional educational leadership speaker. Sometimes the best lessons about leadership, culture, organizational change and high-performing teams come from other sectors. People are going to be extremely excited when we’re able to make this announcement. announced the keynote for the Second General Session, but we have something brewing. What can you tell people?

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LM July 2026