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March 2024 Leadership Matters

Elevating Literacy in Illinois Illinois’ New Comprehensive Literacy Plan

Conference Showcase: AASA in San Diego

Keep Students Learning During Summer

The Illinois State Board of Education adopted the Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan, a roadmap to enhance and unify core literacy instruction efforts statewide. IASA spoke with administrators in Joliet PSD #86 (Three Rivers) and also Herrin CUSD #4 (Shawnee) to showcase two examples of districts that are experiencing encouraging results after changing approaches to teaching literacy. ELEVATING LITERACY IN ILLINOIS

Elevating Education Highlights Two New Leaders

Keep Illinois Learning in Summer

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IASA News in Brief

Annual Conference: Submit Breakout Proposal; Take Advantage of Marketing Opportunities Conference Showcase— Tips from AASA National Conference, In Case You Missed It

Legal Workshops

Videos From the Districts

60 th

IASA Calendar of Events

ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Volume 12, Issue 3 March 2024 Leadership Matters 24050

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

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.

Message From the Executive Director We Need to Ensure Our Students Have the Skills Employers Desire

Dr. Brent Clark

The reality is a degree is becoming less of a sticking point in getting hired. And, without question, it comes with a hefty price tag that has resulted in a student debt crisis. According to a survey of 800 employers last fall, 45 percent of companies plan to eliminate bachelor’s degree requirements for some positions in 2024. The paradigm is shifting. Employers are prioritizing key traits like critical thinking ability, interpersonal skills, a strong work ethic and adaptability and flexibility over a college degree, especially as Artificial Intelligence becomes more prominent in society. As school leaders, how are you teaching students these essential skills? Is it part of your curriculum? The good news is there are numerous examples of school districts across the state reimagining the high school experience and investing in top-of-the-line workforce readiness training programs. Significant investments have occurred in communities such as Litchfield, Mattoon, Collinsville, Effingham, Matteson, Chicago and Rockford. In January, I noticed Bremen High CHSD #228 recognized 451 students for earning an industry credential during the fall 2023 semester, a 57 percent increase from the year before. That is the type of success story that I wish could be featured on the Illinois Report Card. To close, college and career readiness does not have to be an either/or proposition. There is value in both approaches. As the nation’s top companies place more emphasis on skills over a college degree, our public education system needs to adjust with the paradigm shift.

Anyone who has worked in public education long enough has lived through multiple paradigm shifts. Some of us are old enough to remember the “A Nation at Risk” report from 1983, which ushered in a wave of local, state and federal reform efforts. We witnessed a massive shift in school safety after the horrific shooting at Columbine High School in 1999. The No Child Left Behind Act in 2001 put an increased focus on state assessments, annual academic progress and state report cards. An infusion of technology massively shifted the way teachers teach and students learn over the past two decades. Student discipline, teacher evaluation, wages and mental health have all also undergone transformations. If you listen to employers, public education in America could be in the midst of another paradigm shift. I recently read an interview with JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon about the work experience versus college experience debate. Dimon was quoted as saying: “Too much focus in education has been on graduating college…. It should be on jobs. I think schools should be measured on, did the kids get out and get a good job?” College can still be incredibly valuable, but a “college-for all” mindset can be a disservice to students. A student who graduated from high school with an industry credential and entered the workforce is just as successful as a student who graduated and enrolled in college.

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Elevating Literacy in Illinois Illinois’ new Comprehensive Literacy Plan provides a roadmap to enhance reading instruction

By Jason Nevel IASA Director of Communications

Teachers did not want a pendulum swing. Dr. Theresa Rouse and her leadership team at Joliet PSD #86 recognized that reality early on. Pendulum swings in education—on everything from pedagogical practices and theories to curriculum, standards and assessment—can be tiresome and ineffective. The challenge Joliet PSD #86 faced in 2019 is an issue many educators across the country are grappling with today. The elementary district of about 9,500 students, 95 percent of IASA speaks to school leaders in Joliet PSD #86 and Herrin CUSD #4 about efforts to revamp literacy practices.

The science of reading is an interdisciplinary body of scientifically-based research that focuses on five key elements: comprehension, fluency, vocabulary, phonics and phonemic awareness. It is not a program, intervention or product schools can buy, but rather an ever-evolving approach that encourages schools to focus on the basic building blocks that students need to construct their knowledge and understanding when learning to read. Joliet PSD #86 needed to find a middle ground. The result was the Joliet Public Schools District 86 Literacy Framework, which consists of eight core components: Speaking & Listening Skills, Phonological & Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Vocabulary, Writing, Building Knowledge and Comprehension. The transition has started to

which come from low-income households, had languishing literacy scores and needed to change its approach. For years, Joliet PSD #86 had utilized a Balanced Literacy Model, an instructional approach that involves a balance between teacher-led reading and writing instruction and independent learning. However, the Balanced Literacy Model has come under increased scrutiny for not placing enough emphasis on phonics. In 2023 alone, state legislatures in 12 states enacted legislation to improve literacy through “science of reading” approaches.

yield encouraging results. On the STAR Early Literacy Assessment by Renaissance for grades K–1, just 25 percent of students met or exceeded benchmarks when tested in the Fall of 2023. However, by winter, that percentage doubled to 50 percent of students who met or exceeded the benchmark. “We did not want to throw the baby out with the bathwater,” Dr. Rouse said. “We have to build upon what our teachers have, and what they’re comfortable with, but also expose them to some new ways of thinking and new ways to look at things.”

We have to shift literacy practices in Illinois. Let me be clear.

This is not a mandate that will force you to go out and buy a new curriculum. —Dr. Tony Sanders, State Superintendent of Schools in Illinois

2024 Comprehensive Literacy Plan Click here to read the full report.

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Registration is now open!

Throughout the 2023–2024 school year IASA has turned the spotlight on literacy. We will continue that effort on April 9 at 10 a.m with a new webinar with staff from the Illinois State Board of Education. Learn about the state’s new Comprehensive Literacy Plan from panelists Dr. Erica Thieman, Director Of K-12 Curriculum and Instruction, and Kristen Parr, Project Lead for Standards & Instruction. IASA Hosting Literacy Webinar With ISBE

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Literacy ... cont’d.

The biggest shift early on was the decision to name eight instructional coaches in the 2018–2019 academic year, a move made possible, and supported by, the passage of Evidence-Based Funding. The increased focus on teacher development and data analysis produced immediate results. Herrin Elementary School jumped from “Underperforming” to “Exemplary” in a year. But once the pandemic hit, it became clear the journey was far from over. Students returned to school with deficits in their reading ability. “We knew we needed to catch them up, and we discovered the best way to do that was in focusing on the foundational skills,” said Tara Brandon, a reading specialist in Herrin CUSD #4. “We started dabbling in bringing more phonics from outside sources in combination with our reading curriculum to help support those learners that were underperforming.” Herrin CUSD #4 elected to pilot its phonics-based instruction across second grade. Part of that process meant students had a 30-minute block every day focused on phonics. Like Joliet PSD #86, the signs are already encouraging. On MAP Assessment data, achievement scores for second graders in Herrin Elementary School climbed to the 65th percentile in January 2024 from the 50th percentile in August 2023. As a result, the district plans to implement an increased focus on phonics across other grade levels. “We have the right people in the right places, and we’re affording them the time to work together,” said Nathaniel Wilson, superintendent of Herrin CUSD #4. “Those are the two big pieces from my level. Teachers are our greatest resources.” Improving literacy in Joliet PSD #86 goes far beyond the implementation of a new literacy framework. The district has invested significant resources in professional development, implemented numerous community engagement opportunities and created a culture of passion and excitement around literacy through contests and other events. That philosophy has even extended to birth. The district sends books and literacy information to local hospitals to give to the parents of every newborn baby. “Our families recognized that we really made literacy first and foremost in our district,” said Dr. Ankhe Bradley, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction. “Every school in our district now has family reading nights. We’re always looking for ways to promote literacy.”

In 2022...[only] slightly over 1 in 4 third graders in Illinois was reading on grade level. —Illinois Assessment of Readiness Scores

Comprehensive Literacy Plan IASA spoke with administrators in Joliet PSD #86 (Three Rivers) and also Herrin CUSD #4 (Shawnee) to showcase two examples of districts that are experiencing encouraging results after changing approaches to teaching literacy. The state of Illinois hopes other districts pursue similar initiatives to improve underwhelming data. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, only 1 in 3 third graders in Illinois was reading on grade level, according to Illinois Assessment of Readiness scores. In 2022, it was slightly over 1 in 4. To address the issue, the Illinois State Board of Education adopted the Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan, a roadmap to enhance and unify core literacy instruction efforts statewide. The plan does not advocate for any new mandates. Rather, its three main goals are to provide research-backed literacy instruction, professional development and other support for current teachers in the classroom and guidance to help school leaders create supportive learning environments. Illinois’ plan will offer a flexible approach, aligning with state standards while allowing district-specific adaptations. It avoids prescribing specific materials or assessments, while instead promoting data-informed choices by districts. “We have to shift literacy practices in Illinois,” State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders recently told the IASA Abe Lincoln Region. “Let me be clear. This is not a mandate that will force you to go out and buy a new curriculum.” Literacy Growth in Joliet and Herrin For Herrin CUSD #4, a low point turned out to be the catalyst for change the district needed. In the 2017–18 school year, the elementary school received the label of “Underperforming,” primarily due to the low performance of the subgroup of special education students. Former superintendent Terry Ryker and his leadership team recognized the need to make numerous changes, including significant shifts in teaching and learning practices, staffing and curriculum.

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Keep Illinois Learning with Renaissance

To learn more , and to register for an informational webinar, visit renaissance.com/keep-illinois-learning/ . $1.00 per student for reading and math practice solutions math growth this summer Maximize opportunities for reading and

9th Annual Summer Learning Partnership

myON provides unlimited, 24/7 access to thousands of digital titles on any device, online or offline. Embedded literacy tools personalize the reading experience for every student, engaging them in meaningful reading practice throughout the summer.

Freckle offers engaging math practice at each student’s individual level. With a wide variety of differentiated, standards-aligned activities, students can continue growing their math skills over the summer.

Click to view our digital brochure & video

For more information, please contact Kim Walsh | kim.walsh@renaissance.com | (847) 687-7409

744699.0224

“We have been talking about the importance of helping students master our Focus Skills, the most essential skills for progress in both reading and math.”

—Dr. Gene Kerns Chief Academic Officer at Renaissance

Watch this video from Dr. Gene Kerns about opportunities for students to practice reading and math skills over the summer using Renaissance Focus Skills based upon the Illinois standards.

Play time 2:38

Summer = Season of Learning

Formal summer school High-dosage tutoring and acceleration academies

Summer enrichment programs School- and community-based programs

Independent summer learning Targeted reading and math practice

Register for IASA’s March 14 webinar for a deeper discussion with Dr. Gene Kerns about how to optimize students’ practice of essential reading and math skills this summer.

www.renaissance.com

Education Elevat g

We continue our series highlighting tremendous educators across Illinois who have given their time and energy to elevating 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 someone 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. Dr. Johnnie Thomas Rich Twp HSD #227 Cary Jackson Dieterich CUSD #30

Who: Dr. Johnnie Thomas, superintendent What: Reimagined the high school experience by creating new opportunities for students that will help them be workforce ready; Opened a food pantry that provides direct grocery support to families in need; President of Superintendents’ Commission for the Study of Demographics and Diversity;

Who: Cary Jackson, superintendent What: Created new opportunities for students; Helped expand vocational offerings through Effingham Regional Career Academy; Currently serves on Dieterich Community Development Corporation; Expanded dual credit opportunities; Member of RISE Network; Vision 2030 Workgroup.

Where: Dieterich CUSD #30, Wabash Valley When: Superintendent of Dieterich CUSD #30 since 2012 Why: Creating opportunities for students to be successful in their career and life is what drives Cary Jackson in his role as superintendent of Dieterich CUSD #30. “We always do what is in the best interest of students and that means focusing on creating new opportunities,” Jackson said. “One of the ways we achieve that goal is by developing partnerships with community, business, industry and higher education leaders. A lot of our success goes back to the fact that everyone is on the same page. That has helped our community continue to grow.” Dieterich CUSD #30 has experienced significant population growth since 2010. Enrollment in the district has climbed from 425 students to 620 students this current school year. Jackson has served on various community boards, including the Dieterich Community Development

Raised money for college scholarships. Where: Rich Twp HSD #227, Cook South

When: Superintendent of Rich Twp HSD #227 for seven years. Former superintendent of Community High School District 155 from 2012–2017. Why: Having worked in Tier 1 and Tier 4 school districts throughout his education career, Dr. Johnnie Thomas witnessed the disparities first hand. When he was hired as superintendent of Rich Twp HSD #227 in 2017, Dr. Thomas made it his mission to level the playing field. “We have to do whatever we can to eliminate those discrepancies,” Dr. Thomas said. “At Rich Township, our mission has been to expose students to new opportunities and create a top-of-the-line educational experience that emphasizes workforce readiness.” Dr. Thomas has overseen a reimagining of the high school experience at Rich Twp HSD #227, where 95 percent of

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Education Elevat g Thomas ... cont’d. Jackson ... cont’d.

students are Black or Latino and over 89 percent come from economically disadvantaged homes. As part of this redesign, Rich Twp HSD #227 closed one of its flagship campuses and redeveloped two campuses into one comprehensive high school with two campuses, a Fine Arts and Communications campus and a STEM campus. The reimagining has covered everything from developing pathways, re-examining graduation requirements, enhancing AP curriculum, implementing an International Baccalaureate Program, opening a Freshman Academy and expanding vocational opportunities. “Before we started this journey, we had facilities that were not conducive for learning and there were spots where drinking fountains weren’t working and students didn’t feel comfortable using the bathrooms because of the horrible conditions,” Dr. Thomas said. “We needed to transform in order to get the focus back on learning. We’re at the point now where visitors come to tour our facilities and they are shocked that we are a majority-minority district.” In addition to overseeing major renovations and reimagining the high school experience at Rich Twp HSD #227, Dr. Thomas is proud of the work his district has done to address food insecurity. The district of nearly 2,400 students has partnered with the Greater Chicago Food Depository to open a food pantry that provides grocery support to families in need. “There was a need in our community. Our pantry is the only one in south suburban Cook County that provides direct grocery support to families,” Dr Thomas said. “We’ve taken a holistic approach. We have our students with disabilities, along with student volunteers, staff the pantry and put together meals for families. We’re still in the early stages. The goal is to eventually deliver meals to families.” Dr. Thomas is also president of the Superintendents’ Commission for the Study of Demographics and Diversity. The group represents school districts across the state of Illinois with a focus on demographics and diversity. SCSDD partners with higher education institutions, offers professional development to educators, parents and provides scholarships to high school students. In two years, the Commission, in partnership with the United Negro College Fund, has raised more than $600,000 in total scholarships, which will include 10 full-ride scholarships to Tougaloo College in Mississippi, a Historically Black College and University. “In the journey towards educational equity and student success, the partnership with a supportive board focused on children has been the guiding light,” said Dr. Thomas. “Together, we have reimagined the high school experience, addressed food insecurity and raised funds for college scholarships. With dedication and collaboration, we are shaping a brighter future for all our students and the communities I humbly serve. We are stronger together.”

Corporation, that have helped attract businesses through the development of an industrial park and the formation of a new water cooperative. The district has also played a major role in the development of The Wright Family Center, a new community building that includes a fitness center, weight room, gymnasium, community rooms and a daycare facility. But one of the biggest draws to Deiterich is the high quality educational system. Under Jackson’s leadership, Dieterich CUSD #30 has an Exemplary rated Elementary School and Commendable-rated Jr. High/High School. “Our students have great work ethics and a lot of that is because of high expectations,” Jackson said. “Our families have high expectations for their children and high expectations for the school district. Our challenge is to continuously meet those expectations.” Jackson has also pushed to expand dual credit offerings and vocational opportunities for students. The district is part of the Effingham Regional Career Academy (ERCA). Through an agreement with Lake Land College, Eastern Illinois Education for Employment System 340 and several other Effingham region school districts, ERCA will move into a new career and technology center in Effingham later this year. “When you pool resources and come together as a region, you’re able to provide new opportunities for students,” Jackson said. Dieterich CUSD #30 also provides additional opportunities for students by participating in the RISE Network, also known as Rural Illinois Shared Education. The partnership provides a distance learning network for rural schools across Illinois. “In smaller, rural communities, there are courses students want to take, but we are unable to offer them locally,” Jackson said. “RISE opens doors for students and expands the reach of the classroom.” Outside of Dieterich CUSD #30, Jackson serves on the Accountability Subcommittee for the Vision 2030 Workgroup. He is also Secretary/Treasurer for the Wabash Valley Region and is Regional Chair for IASBO’s Southeast Region.

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Aspiring Superintendent Academy

An Immersive Learning Experience To Prepare You For The Superintendency

What Is The IASA Aspiring Superintendent Academy And Who Should Participate? Sunday, June 23–Thursday, June 27, 2024

They prepare you for the unexpected and de- mystify the superintendency. I came in with imposter syndrome and a little intimidated, but this program made me realize I could do it. The person I came in as is different from the person that is leaving. —Matt Condon, superintendent, Morton Grove SD #70 “ ” VALUE?

IASA’s Aspiring Superintendent Academy is an immersive learning experience like no other in the state for educators considering the superintendency. Participants engage in active learning experiences and gain insights from respected practitioners about how to be an effective leader and leverage the position to change the lives of students. The fast-paced program features numerous simulations, reflection time and the creation of meaningful artifacts that reflect the current expectations of the job of superintendent. Mock interviews with professional search firms also help prepare you to land that first job. If you want a modern view of the superintendency beyond what is taught in graduate school, register today for IASA’s Aspiring Superintendent Academy! Scholarship opportunities are available. Target Audience: Central office staff, directors, principals, assistant principal and deans.

Classes will be held at the IASA Headquarters 2648 Beechler Court, Springfield, IL 62703 217–753–2213 WHERE?

More than 80 past participants have been hired as superintendents

$1,950 per participant (program costs, resource materials, meals and lodging) COST?

See what past participants say about their experience: VIDEO!

Presented by:

Complete application on IASA website. DEADLINE: Tuesday, March 19, 2024 Questions? Contact Kristy Ponsler, Illinois Association of School Administrators: 217–753–2213 or kponsler@iasaedu.org

Michael Lubelfeld, Ed.D. superintendent at North Shore School District #112

Nick Polyak, Ed.D. superintendent

Courtney Orzel, Ed.D. IASA Associate Director of Professional Development

at Leyden CHSD #212

A Special Thank You To Our Sponsors And Partners: • DYOPATH • HLERK • HUMANeX Ventures • IASB • ISBE • Legat Architects • Lifetouch • Stifel • TCG Advisors

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Looking for the Perfect Candidate? IASA’s Illinois Education Job Bank SM can help you. Every day, thousands of job seekers visit the IASA Illinois Education Job Bank looking for openings at school districts across Illinois. Avoid national sites that cost more and are not tailored to Illinois educators. The IASA Illinois Education Job Bank SM is trusted by superintendents across the state and makes finding qualified applicants to fill permanent, interim, part or full-time vacancies easy. • Set up the RSS feed option to automatically post your district’s vacancy to your district website • The Job Bank SM is set up to automatically send an email notice to your ROE when a position is posted • Easily flag your favorite applicants • Create job posting templates to save you time in the future

If you have any questions about the IASA Job Bank SM or new feature criteria, contact Ashleigh Knudson at 217–753–2213.

illinoiseducationjobbank.org

Professional Development

Dr. Courtney Orzel IASA Associate Director of Professional Development

“ “

It’s feedback like this that makes us excited to organize the IASA New Superintendents Conference. Please help us share the news about this event by passing along information to any incoming first-year superintendents. The conference provides the perfect opportunity for new leaders to connect with other first-year superintendents, gather vital information and build a support network for The entire conference was full of helpful information, and it increased my confidence in having a support group to be successful in the role. This training is so helpful as a new superintendent coming into this role. I was nervous and anxious at first, but now I feel better knowing all the support that IASA provides me. ” ”

your first year on the job. The event also provides a platform to meet the IASA staff and Field Services Directors, who serve as mentors to early-career superintendents. Visit the conference registration site to view a sample agenda, learn more about the speakers and secure your lodging. NEW SUPERINTENDENTS CONFERENCE JULY 8–10 | SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS 2024

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 2024 beginning in July. All sessions will be held virtually. info•register

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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: April 4 and June 18— NOW VIRTUAL . info•register Leadership Strand

Leadership Strand Why Your Why Matters AA 1445

IASA’s popular leadership academy strand focusing on your Why returns with three additional online sessions. Whether you’ve experienced a Why session before, or you’re taking Why Your Why Matters for the first time, register today and join your colleagues around the state to network, collaborate and

reflect on why being an educator is the most important profession on Earth! Upcoming dates: June 13.

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: April 11.

info•register

Whether its struggles to balance family responsibilities, higher expectations and scrutiny in the workplace or underrepresentation, female school leaders continue Leadership Strand Women in Leadership: Learning, Leading & Living AA 3665 Updated for FY24

to face unique challenges. This newly updated IASA academy 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 2023–24. Up coming date: June 17

info•register

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

Professional Development 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 date: May 30.

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: April 8 info•register

THE UNFINISHED LEADER: A School Leadership Framework for Growth & Development School of Professional Development AA#3896 IASA Academy

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: April 18. info•register

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Professional Development

Budget Amendment/Cash Flow Analysis

New IASA Workshop on Spring Budgeting Process

Now is the time to determine whether or not a budget amendment will be required for your district’s FY22 budget. Register today for IASA’s new, two-hour virtual workshop that will walk participants through the process of determining the need for a budget amendment, review the required steps and timelines to complete an amendment and demonstrate how to complete a cash flow analysis. This workshop is a follow-up to IASA’s Budgeting Basics

class held in the summer. The target audience is first, second and third-year superintendents as well as any administrator or bookkeeper needing additional support with the spring budget amendment process. The following dates are scheduled:

• April 19 • April 22

info•register

Navigating Superintendent & School Board Relationships

NEW ACADEMY FROM

AA#3998

IASA is excited to offer a new academy designed to help new, early career and aspiring superintendents lead a school district successfully. Includes an overview of the policies, processes, reflections and tools needed to foster, build, and create positive school district relationships; plus an examination of the roles of the school board president, union leadership, community stakeholders and

administrative chain of command in the school district. Register today and gain a better understanding from two veteran superintendents how to navigate relationships

with school board members. Academy scheduled April 5.

info•register

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FREE MONTHLY WEBINAR SERIES FOR MEMBERS

Literacy

Achieving a Summer Boost: Optimizing Students’ Practice of Essential Skills IASA once again turns the spotlight on literacy in March with a new free webinar featuring Dr. Gene Kerns, Chief Academic Officer of Renaissance. The title of this one hour, free webinar is “Achieving a Summer Boost: Optimizing Students’ Practice of Essential Skills.” The focus will be on how academic recovery is continuing, but gaps persist, and we need to maximize every opportunity for growth, including the summer months. This webinar builds on the continued partnership of IASA and Renaissance’s “Keep Illinois Learning” initiative for Summer 2024. Join this webinar to learn more about the powerful tools being provided and how you can use them to support students in mastering Focus Skills™, the most essential skills for progress in Reading and Math. info•register Mar. 14 at 10 a.m.

Podcast:

Stressed Leaders Retreat In this episode, we talk to Dan Stecken, superintendent of Seneca Twp HSD #160. Dan has organized a new opportunity to help school leaders avoid burnout, the Stressed Leaders Retreat.

Learn about what the event entails, when it is and how it can rejuvenate you professionally. Click Here to listen. Visit the Stressed Leaders Retreat website to learn more.

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News In Brief

Rural Education Advisory Council Members Announced The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) announced that Rural Education Advisory Council (REAC) members have been chosen by the Illinois State Board of Education. Each of the Council members were appointed by Illinois State Superintendent of Education, Dr. Tony Sanders, for their involvement and commitment to rural and small schools in Illinois and based on the statutory requirements. These appointments come from a cross section of state associations and education entities. The appointments are:

The Illinois Chapter of the National School Public Relations Association (INSPRA) is now accepting nominations for its annual Distinguished Service Celebration in May, and you’re invited to participate in this tremendous opportunity to honor various members of your school community with a state-level recognition. What better way to celebrate National School Communicators Day than by recognizing individuals and groups (parents, teachers/staff, board members community members, etc.) in your school district who partner with the school communications office and serve as ambassadors for public education and champions of your schools. INSPRA’s annual Distinguished Service Celebration honors the impactful work of these individuals. Learn more about the nomination categories, criteria and process at inspra.org/dsc. The deadline for nominations is Friday, March 15, 2024. INSPRA Distinguished Service Celebration: Highlight Your School PR Ambassadors

Shawn Walsh Illinois State Board of Education Designee for Dr. Sanders David Ardrey Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools Executive Director Jason Harper Rochelle Township High School & Rochelle Elementary Consolidated District Superintendent Representative for Northeastern and Northcentral Regions Dr. Patrick Twomey Macomb CUSD 185 Superintendent Representative for Northcentral and Southern Regions AIRSS Past President Lance Landeck St. Joseph CCSD 169 Superintendent Representative for Northcentral and Southern Regions

Dr. Jennifer Garrison Vandalia CUSD 203 Superintendent Representative for Southern Region AIRSS President Charley Cass Bethel SD 82 Superintendent Representative for Southern Region Paula Daley Mendota Elementary 289 Principal Brenda Algandar Beardstown CUSD 15 School Board Member Dr. Laura O’Donnell Olympia CUSD 16 Superintendent Jodi Scott Regional Office of Education 33 Regional Superintendent Jenna Jiang Illinois State Board of Education Student Advisory Council Member

ISDLAF+ Monthly Update Click here to view the most current ISDLAF+ rates, economic indicators and general economic news brief. To obtain additional information regarding this IASA sponsored service, contact Fenil J. Patel, Senior Vice President, Investment Services/ISDLAF+ at 630–657–6437, or email: fpatel@ pmanetwork.com. Website: www.pmanetwork.com.

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IASA Offering Legal Workshops Now Through April; Register Today

PD Hours Now Offered! (live attendance only)

IASA is proud to help superintendents deepen their knowledge and understanding of pertinent legal matters. Our legal workshop series continues through March and April with 10 remaining sessions on important legal matters. Feel free to register for multiple legal workshops. One you receive the confirmation email from Zoom, be sure to add the event to your calendar, so the link is easier to access on the day of the workshop. In need of professional development hours? We have you covered. IASA is now offering 2 PD hours per session for participants who complete the workshop. You must attend the entire legal workshop and complete the Sign In and Sign Out Forms to receive an Evidence of Completion Form.

IASA Legal Workshops are being recorded. The recordings will be posted on the IASA website in the legal services section. To access the recordings, you will need to login to the website. See the list of law firms, dates and session titles on the right page. If there are any additional topics you would like to see covered, do not hesitate to contact Chad Watkins, IASA General Counsel. Descriptions of most sessions are available on the registration page. We hope you can join us online and get advice on complex legal issues.

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March 18 2024 10–Noon

March 20 2024 10–Noon

Attorney: Bill Gleason

Attorney: Caleb Mundorf

Residency, Homelessness and Migrant Students

Basics of Collective Bargaining

March 26 2024 10–Noon

March 27 2024 10–Noon

Attorney: Caleb Mundorf

Attorney: Courtney Stillman

Student Discipline: The Importance of Documentation

Current Collective Bargaining Trends

April 2 2024 10–Noon

April 3, 2024 10–Noon

Attorney: Kaitlin Atlas

Attorney: Abby Rogers

Employee Discipline

Special Education Updates

April 10 2024 10–Noon

April 17 2024 10–Noon

Attorney: Catie Locallo

Attorney: Maureen Lemon

Open Meetings Act

FOIA Primer

April 18 2024 10–Noon

April 30 2024 10–Noon

The Restroom Debate— What Is the Latest from the Courts? Attorneys: Michelle Basi, Merry Rhoades and Patrick Simon

Attorneys: Susan Best and Laura Knittle

Title IX

Can’t attend?

Recordings are available to IASA members on the IASA website.

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conference showcase

Just

Tips You

AASA National Conference on Education in San Diego

Can Use

Education conferences are a tremendous opportunity to learn about innovative strategies and best practices in schools. However, it’s not always possible to attend every session you want. In this feature in Leadership Matters, IASA highlights conference breakout sessions you may have missed. The article is not intended to offer a comprehensive review of each presentation, but rather provide you with 3-5 tangible tips from the presentation that you can use in your district.

This session explored the intricate strategies and dynamic factors influencing superintendents as they navigate systemic changes within their school districts. The discussion centered around the imperative to address unique district challenges, improve operations efficiency, align with modern educational best practices, adjust to evolving student demographics and how to adhere to legislative mandates, all while crafting and implementing strategic plans. Panelists : Keisha Scarlett, Superintendent of St. Louis Public School District; Angelica Ramsey, Superintendent of Fort Worth Independent School District; Rob Anderson, Superintendent of Boulder Valley School District; Jermall Wright, Superintendent of Little Rock School District. 1 Differentiated Funding: As a way to allocate unspent federal ESSER dollars, the Boulder Valley School District created a differentiated funding system for its network of schools. Each of the district’s 56 schools were placed in three tiers, with the schools with higher percentages of high-needs students receiving the most amount of money. The lowest-performing schools had to adhere to certain guidelines as a condition of re ceiving the funds. The effort helped significantly boost academic achievement in the district’s lowest perform ing schools. Navigating Complexity: Strategies for Systematic Changes in School Districts

2 Sometimes Need to Move Ahead: Boulder Valley Super intendent Rob Anderson admitted he intentionally didn’t schedule a series of community engagement sessions about the differentiated funding plan, anticipating they would only bog down the process. Rather, he emphasized the message that every school would receive additional funds. 3 Buy Yourself Time: A large-scale shift in teaching and learning practices in the district may take at least three years to properly evaluate. Superintendents may need to buy time with their public and board by keeping the message focused on the number of new opportunities you are creating for students, rather than discussing the immediate impact on academic achievement. Creating new opportunities can lead to a boost in student achievement. 4 Organizational Chart: Review your district’s organizational chart to make sure it’s updated to reflect your current staff. A review of the organizational chart can help you become aware of overlapping duties and also help you better develop succession plans for staff. In addition, a new superintendent should consider scheduling one-on-one meetings with all employees to learn about their job responsibilities and also gain a better understanding of how to best communicate with them. 5 Create Initiatives: To emphasize literacy and get people excited, the St. Louis Public School District developed the theme “Literacy For the Lou.” Creating an initiative with a theme and logo helps build excitement and engagement with your staff and community, producing better results.

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