LM May 2022

May 2022 LeadershipMatters

Membership Drive FY2023

Renew or Join IASA Today

Plus:

2022 Superintendents of Distinction

Registration Open for IASA New Superintendents Conference

Join IASA

Professional Development

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As this fiscal year comes to an end and FY 2023 is set to begin, we hope you would consider renewing your membership with IASA. An online registration site is now live that streamlines the process and ensures you continue to have access to IASA services and receive emails with timely information. IASA MEMBERSHIP DRIVE FY2023

ofessional Development week announcing IASA’s latest initiative—Level Up Leadership, a new cohort for assistant dministrators. nt superintendents and central office administrators to connect with peers from across the state o-year cohort will launch this fall and participants will meet quarterly. ovoking conversations on timely topics such as leadership strategies, post-COVID learning and ur goal is to also have participants walk away with practicable and tangible ideas they can take

rthcoming.

CONFERENCE New Superintendents Conference. y and the perfect opportunity to tendents, gather vital information first year on the job. The pics including board relations, elations and personal health. our district next school year, h them.

12 Registration Open for

2022 NEW SUPERINTENDENTS CONFERENCE JULY 11–12 | SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS

Congratulations and Thank You! Saying Goodbye to Familiar Faces

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IASA New Superintendents Conference

IASA News In Brief

Celebrating This Year’s IASA Superintendents of Distinction

ve program or you want ers, please submit a ay! Past sessions have our district’s brand; ort-term borrowing nning for school rograms; curriculum; rganization. be held September ham Lincoln—Springfield, e BOS Center.

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Superintendents of Distinction

IASA Legal Corner

CrisisGo: 5 Reasons to Meet People Where They Are On Safety

Dr. Edward Condon and Leigh Lewis Share Best Practices Used in Their Districts

Education Elevat g

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IASA Calendar of Events

Volume 10, Issue 5 May 2022 LeadershipMatters 22080 Jason Nevel Director of Social Media and Publications jnevel@iasaedu.org

2648 Beechler Court Springfield, IL 62703-7305 217.753.2213 800 Woodfield Road, Ste. F109 Schaumburg, IL 60173-4717 847.466.5075

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 Understanding Your Local Politics Will Be Key in “School CultureWars”

Dr. Brent Clark

to review board policies related to adopting curriculum, students opting out of lesson plans and banning curriculum. It’s important to include building principals and other pertinent stakeholders in this process. This undertaking will look different in each community, but it’s important to be sensitive to different viewpoints and open to changes, if necessary. It will also be critical that you, your principals and administrators are on the same page about how to respond to questions. At the end of the day, it’s better to be proactive to difficult situations than try to respond to attacks on the fly. The good news is you are built for this. The pandemic was the ultimate exercise in learning how to read your community and understand local politics. Use the skills and knowledge you accrued the past two years to develop a strategy. Lastly, lean on your peers, utilize your support network and don’t be afraid to contact IASA if you need additional help. We are here to support you. Have a great end to the school year and wonderful summer break. Each of you definitely deserves a vacation.

The ability to read your community and understand local politics has always been a key factor to the success of any superintendency. That skillset is being tested again. Schools and school boards across the country are once again political front-page news in what the media has dubbed the “school culture wars.” That is a broad term to describe political debates centered around issues such as critical race theory, equity, parents’ rights, gender and sexuality. We’ve already seen school culture wars take center stage in states like Virginia and Florida. Don’t be fooled into thinking Illinois is immune. It’s currently playing out in candidates filing for school board seats in other states, school districts receiving a barrage of Freedom of Information Act requests about curriculum and social media attacks. As we move closer to the June 28 primary in Illinois, gubernatorial candidates will only amplify the issue, likely making it even more of a hot-button issue in your community. How you prepare for and handle these interactions with school boards, candidates, community members and students will likely be a major factor into the success of your superintendency moving forward. In other words, you’re going to need to be able to read your community. My advice is to review and familiarize yourself with your district’s curriculum and supporting materials related to these controversial subjects. Also, now is the time

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in corporate partnership with

Aflac is a proud IASA President’s Circle Corporate Partner. Aflac, America’s most recognized supplemental insurance provider, has a dedicated centralized service team that is committed to helping IASA members find lower cost plans with higher benefits and better technology solutions. Why Aflac now? Aflac can tailor fit a plan to protect your employees with benefits and financial solutions designed specifically for their unique situation. With the IASA plan, your school district may offer a robust variety of plans and programs to your employees. From Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital, Disability and even Life Insurance, to Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), 403(b) administration, and a new System-Of-Record BenAdmin system, Aflac’s expertise and experience in your industry can be a valuable resource to IASA members.

For more information about how Aflac can be your Illinois school partner, call: The IASA Dedicated Call Center Line: 1–866–273–5489

Luke Rockwell, 773–458–3598 or luke_rockwell@us.aflac.com Visit the Aflac & IASA Website

SEPT. 28-30, 2022 Leading with Passion, Purpose and Perspective

Annual Conference 58th

BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln—Springfield, A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Registration and Housing Open This Summer!

Featured Keynotes:

SUPT SUPT 2 Gather with your col leagues to l isten, learn and grow together! Supt 2 Supt brings superintendents together to discuss timely and sensitive topics.

Chris Singleton is a former basebal l player. He shares a message of resi l ience and forgiveness fol lowing the loss of his mother in the 2015 Mother Emanuel Church Tragedy.

Always a favorite, Ignite al lows leaders from exemplary school districts to share innovative educational messages and best practices, taking just 5 minutes each.

In 2009, Damon West was sentenced to 65 years in prison for robberies he committed to support his drug habit . His story of redemption continues to inspire audiences.

Plus: Call For Presentations:

Breakout Sessions, Academies, Women in Leadership, New Superintendents’ Strand, Exhibits, Receptions and More!

If you would like to share best practices on educational issues with your colleagues in a Breakout Session, you have until Friday, May 27, 2022 to submit your proposal! More info/proposal submission

Take Advantage of Excellent Marketing Opportunities

School Service Members

Click Here to Reserve a Booth or Sponsor an Event, Meal or Speaker

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I L L I N O I S A S S O C I A T I O N

Membership Drive FY2023

We greatly appreciate the support of the nearly 1,750 members who have made it possible for IASA to provide services to school administrators across the state of Illinois. To adapt and respond to the ever-increasing challenges of being a school administrator we have expanded legal services, professional development opportunities, advocacy efforts and communications support. As this fiscal year comes to an end and FY 2023 is set to begin, we hope you would consider renewing your membership with IASA. An online registration site is now live that streamlines the process and ensures you continue to have access to IASA services and receive emails with timely information. If you have any questions about renewing your membership, please contact Misti Murphy, Membership Assistant, at 217–753–2213 or mmurphy@iasaedu.org. One of the most valuable learning tools that I took away from the various IASA leadership programs and resources is maintaining my focus on the “why” and understanding the urgent vs the important. —Dr. Anna Alvarado, Freeport SD #145, Northwest It has been reassuring to have legal counsel that represents me as an individual when renewing my contract, and even more importantly when I transitioned to a new district. IASA’s team looks out for my best interest and ensures that my contract protects my rights as a superintendent. —Dr. Terri Bresnahan, CCSD #59, Cook North Why IASA:

IASAActive Membership is available to individuals contributing to the Teacher’s Retirement System who are employed in Illinois as a school administrator, an administrative staff member of the Illinois State Board of Education, an administrative staff member of the Illinois Association of School Boards (provided such person has previously worked as a school administrator), a superintendent/assistant superintendent of a regional office of education or an educational cooperative of school systems. On the right side of the page, please review the advantages to IASA membership. We have a staff of experienced, skilled and dedicated people that provide those services and are available as resources to our members. Thank you again for your continued support. We look forward to another year of supporting school leaders. I truly appreciate the governmental relations/ advocacy support IASA provides. The IASA staff works with ISBE, members of the General Assembly, the Governor’s office and special interest groups to assure that newly introduced bills do not The IASA communications support is a tremendous asset to superintendents. As a superintendent, I’m typically never at a loss for words. However, in a few crisis situations this year, I was able to count on IASA to make sure my words to the community were being delivered clearly. It did not matter that it was early in the morning or late at night. —Nathaniel Wilson, Herrin CUSD #4, Shawnee negatively impact our districts. —Lance Landeck, Oakland CUSD #5, Illini

Dr. Orzel brings experience and understanding of what truly happens in classrooms and schools. She has helped our team move very far with effective planning, measurement of goals and implementation. —Dr. Dana Smith, Flossmoor SD #161, Cook South

Click here

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O F S C H O O L A D M I N I S T R A T O R S

Active IASA Membership Does Have Its Advantages:

Legal Services and Support At no additional cost, members can contact IASA’s in- house general counsel for legal consultation regarding superintendent contracts and assistance in job-related legal actions or proceedings. Members also have access to free legal workshops that cover timely topics and important matters. Mentoring IASA employs six retired superintendents that provide mentoring services and one-on-one assistance to first, second and third-year superintendents. Our Field Services Directors are available 24/7 to answer your calls and support you in your new leadership role. Networking The superintendency does not have to be a lonely job! IASA connects you with your peers and helps you build your network, so you don’t have to face immense challenges alone. Academies and Workshops Need help crafting a budget, preparing a tax levy, evaluating staff or improving your or your team’s leadership skills? IASA has you covered. IASA members have access to essential academies and workshops led by knowledgeable and experienced practitioners. On-Demand Professional Development IASA is deeply committed to personalized and on-demand professional development. Opportunities include Institute Presentations, Administrative Team Academies, Custom Workshops and Leadership Coaching. We’re here to support the professional development needs of our members across the state.

Legislative Advocacy IASA membership strengthens the voice of superintendents at the Illinois statehouse. We work tirelessly to advocate for legislation that will improve education in our state and benefit our members. Through IASA membership, you have access to a Bill Tracker/ Analysis tool on the IASA website and receive legislative updates via Capitol Watch. Also, our legislative team is always available to answer your questions. Communications Support When a crisis hits, call IASA’s communications team any time for assistance with media statements or letters to parents. We can craft a message that informs your community, calms fears and helps you manage a difficult situation. Template letters can be found on the IASA website. Publications and Resources IASA members receive a task calendar that helps keep you on track with deadlines, reports and responsibilities of the superintendency. IASA members also stay current on education news with our daily newsletter, Eye on Education, and receive a monthly magazine, Leadership Matters. Premier Superintendent Conferences IASA’s Annual Conference is designed by Illinois superintendents for Illinois superintendents. Join your peers for three days of networking, learning and hearing from nationally known speakers. Our New Superintendents Conference covers everything you need to know to hit the ground running as a superintendent. Return Of Dues Program A payment proportionate to the amount of dues paid during the past 10 consecutive years is made to a member’s beneficiary upon an active member’s death.

Click here to download and print a copy of the IASA Active Membership Invoice for FY 2023.

to renew your membership.

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I L L I N O I S A S S O C I A T I O N O F S C H O O L A D M I N I S T R A T O R S

School Service Membership & IASA Corporate Partner Program

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

Click here to download and print a copy of the IASA School Service Membership Invoice for FY 2023. Click here to renew or join IASA for FY 2023. If you have any questions on IASA membership, please contact Misti Murphy at 217–753–2213 or mmurphy@iasaedu.org. School Service Membership is your entry point to IASA and our members! Benefits of School Service Membership include: • IASA Membership Directory: Annual publication, available in print and online, includes contact information for all Illinois public school district superintendents and other key personnel. • 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 or IASA’s monthly magazine, Leadership Matters. • IASA Illinois Education Job Bank: Post job listings on Illinois’ premier education job site. Gain visibility with school leaders across Illinois IASA offers companies different levels of visibility to IASA members via our School Service Membership and Corporate Partner Program. By supporting IASA, you maximize your marketing dollars and gain visibility with more than 1,000 school superintendents and administrators in Illinois. School Service Membership Benefits

Want More Visibility? Corporate Partner Benefits

IASA Corporate Partners enjoy School Service Member benefits plus enhanced opportunities to sponsor events, receptions, IASA resources and advertise in IASA publications. 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: 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 recognition by sponsoring or advertising in IASA’s monthly magazine Leadership Matters, Eye on Education daily newsletter, Annual Report, Superintendent’s Toolkit, Membership Directory, or the IASA Podcast. 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. Contact Cherry Middleton, Director of Operations and Facilities, at 217–753–2213 or at cmiddleton@iasaedu.org for more information gain visibility with IASA members in person. IASA Publications and Podcast

Other Categories of IASA Membership:

IASA offers membership opportunities to individuals who may not qualify for Active Membership. Below are descriptions of the different categories.

Law Firm Membership Throughout the year, IASA holds a variety of events offering excellent virtual and face-to-face opportunities for law firmmembers and corporate partners to experience quality time with school leaders. You can maximize your marketing dollars and gain yearlong recognition and visibility through a law firmmembership and corporate partnership. Click here to download and print a copy of the IASA Law FirmMembership Invoice for FY 2023. Click here to renew or join IASA for FY 2023. Full-Time Professor Membership IASA Full-Time Professor Membership is available to full-time professors of education or educational administration at an accredited institution of higher education in Illinois. Professor members receive Capitol Watch, Leadership Matters, Eye on Education , upcoming professional development opportunities and Annual Conference materials. Click here to download and print a copy of the IASA Professor Membership Invoice for FY 2023. Click here to renew or join IASA for FY 2023. Retired Membership Retired membership is available to a person who has retired from the profession of school administration and who was an Active or Full-Time Professor Member at the time of such retirement.

Retired Members receive the IASA Membership Directory, Leadership Matters, Capitol Watch, Eye on Education and Annual Conference materials. Click here to download and print a copy of the IASA Retired Membership Invoice for FY 2023. Click here to renew or join IASA for FY 2023. Associate Membership IASA Associate Membership is available to an individual who is actively pursuing a career in school administration and is not eligible for Active Member status. Associate Members receive Leadership Matters, Capitol Watch, Eye on Education and access to view job postings on the Illinois Education Job Bank SM . Contact Misti Murphy at 217–753–2213 or IASA Student Membership status is available to a person who has not achieved certification as a superintendent, has a master’s degree and is currently enrolled as a graduate student in a recognized program in school administration. Student Members receive Leadership Matters, Capitol Watch, Eye on Education and access to view job postings on the Illinois Education Job Bank SM . Contact Misti Murphy at 217–753–2213 or mmurphy@iasaedu.org. mmurphy@iasaedu.org. Student Membership

OUR MISSION: Supporting school leaders in the pursuit of educational excellence. OUR VISION: Maximum educational success for all students.

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Congratulations & Thank You!!! Saying Goodbye to Familiar Faces

As Fiscal Year 2022 winds down, IASA is saying goodbye to two employees and several members of the IASA Board of Directors. We also want to thank the region presidents and everyone who served on an IASA representative committee.

Retiring Staff:

Melissa Arney, Office Assistant–Professional Development Melissa Arney joined IASA in January 2018 as the Office Assistant–Professional Development. She plays a pivotal role behind the scenes in making sure IASA professional development opportunities run smoothly. Ms. Arney will retire June 30.

Dr. Bill Phillips, IASA Field Services Director Following a 26-year career as a practicing superintendent, Dr. Phillips joined IASA in 2012 as a Field Services Director. He was among the initial group of retired superintendents IASA hired to staff the new role designed to mentor and support early-career superintendents. He specialized in school finance and school district reorganization. Dr. Phillips currently serves as an associate professor in the Department of Educational Leadership at the University of Illinois-Springfield.

Outgoing Board of Directors:

Dr. Scott Goselin, Three Rivers Dr. Goselin, superintendent of Bradley SD #61, has served in the IASA Board of Directors since 2016.

Julie Schmidt, Lake Ms. Schmidt, superintendent of Kildeer Countryside CCSD #96, has served on the IASA Board of Directors since 2017.

Dr. Victor Zimmerman, Past President Dr. Zimmerman, superintendent of Monticello CUSD #25, has served on the IASA Board of Directors since 2016.

Dr. Michelle Lee, Western

Dr. Lee, superintendent of LaHarpe CSD #347 and Dallas ESD #327, has served on the IASA Board of Directors since 2020.

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NewsInBrief

BunkerHill Superintendent Receives StatewideAward Bunker Hill CUSD #8 Superintendent Todd Dugan was recently awarded the 2022 Lighthouse Award by the Illinois Association of School Business Officials (IASBO) at its

A new report from the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) provides insights into school district spending priorities, decisions, challenges, and success stories regarding federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) I, II, and III COVID-relief funds. The report, “How Have School Districts Spent ESSER Funds So Far?” shares findings from ASBO’s February 2022 survey of U.S. school district finance leaders. School business professionals were asked to share enrollment and attendance trends during COVID-19; ESSER I, II, and III expenditures for various spending categories; top spending challenges; and other financial information. Responses were received from more than 150 school districts across 35 states. “Policymakers and other stakeholders seek information about how districts are spending federal funds to accelerate student learning, address emerging mental health and social-emotional needs, and implement other COVID-19 school recovery strategies,” ASBO International Executive Director David Lewis says. “As key financial decision makers in education, school business professionals are uniquely positioned to share their districts’ ESSER spending stories, some of which are highlighted in this report,” he says. For a summary of survey findings, download ASBO International’s ESSER survey infographic. Learn more about how districts are spending ESSER funds to support student needs in the full report at asbointl.org/ESSER. NewASBOSurveyShowsHow ESSERFundsAreHelpingStudents

Diversity, Equityand InclusionSummit Belleville SD #118 is hosting its inaugural 118 DEI Summit on Tuesday, June 7. The event is an opportunity for administrators and staff members in Region 5 to come together and discuss ideas surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion. See this flyer for more information. annual conference in Schaumburg, Illinois on May 4, 2022. The Illinois ASBO Lighthouse Award was established to recognize outstanding practices and new ideas that result in significant contributions to school entities, the profession of school business management or Illinois ASBO and can be replicated by other school business officials or leaders. Bunker Hill CUSD #8 was selected for its work removing equity obstacles for students choosing to participate in work-based learning at Bunker Hill High School. The district worked with community partners SIHF Healthcare, Lewis & Clark Community College, and Alton Memorial Hospital to pilot a program that afforded students the opportunity to take coursework and complete their clinicals during their high school career at no expense. Next week, several students will graduate Bunker Hill High School with not only a high school diploma but also the Certified Nursing Assistance (CAN) certification with no debt incurred. This first of its kind model has also led to replication in several other area districts, and the program looks to expand to other post-secondary careers in the future.

ISDLAF+MonthlyUpdate 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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Professional Development

Dr. Courtney Orzel IASA Associate Director of Professional Development

NEW SUPERINTENDENTS CONFERENCE Registration is now open for IASA’s New Superintendents Conference. The two-day event is complimentary and the perfect opportunity to connect with other first-year superintendents, gather vital information and build a support network for your first year on the job. The conference will cover a variety of topics including board relations, school finance, technology, media relations and personal health. If a new superintendent is coming to your district next school year, please share the registration link with them.

2022 NEW SUPERINTENDENTS CONFERENCE JULY 11–12 | SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS

Be on the lookout for an email in the coming weeks announcing IASA’s latest initiative— Level Up Leadership, a new cohort for assistant superintendents and central office administrators. The cohort will be a way for assistant superintendents and central office administrators to connect with peers from across the state and grow in their profession. The two-year cohort will launch this fall and participants will meet quarterly in Springfield. Each session will include thought-provoking conversations on timely topics such as leadership

strategies, post-COVID learning and recruitment and retention of staff. Our goal is to also have participants walk away with practicable and tangible ideas they can take back to their daily work. More information on the cohort is forthcoming.

Lastly, if your district has an innovative program or you want to share best practices with your peers, please submit a proposal for a breakout session today! Past sessions have addressed topics such as: building your district’s brand; equity and inclusion; technology; short-term borrowing solutions for schools; retirement planning for school professionals; violence prevention programs; curriculum; legal updates and school district reorganization. This year’s Annual Conference will be held September 28–30, 2022 at The President Abraham Lincoln—Springfield, a Double Tree by Hilton hotel and the BOS Center.

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Coaching Leaders: RefindingYour “Why” AA 1445 Leadership Strand

Participant Testimonials

I needed this more than I realized. The time to reflect, connect, learn and share was incredible.

”

“

The 2021-22 school year has been a constant tug of war of emotions and actions that has left school administrators across our state drained. If you’re in search of a fun academy that will re-energize you, IASA’s “Coaching Leaders: Re-finding Your Why—AA #1445” is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow school administrators for an inspirational and reflective event that will leave you feeling motivated.

Two virtual sessions remain on the schedule, and three in-person academies have been added. The academy is presented by Dr. Courtney Orzel, IASA’s Associate Director of Professional Development. The virtual sessions will be held online via Zoom from 9 a.m. to noon. The following dates are scheduled:

• May 10 • June 22

info•register

Three in-person Re-Finding Your Why academies will close out the fiscal year. The following dates are scheduled:

3 IN-PERSON SESSIONS ADDED!

• June 1—IASA Office Training Room, 2648 Beechler Ct, Springfield, IL 62703.

• June 2—John A Logan College Conference Center, Ivey/Tarvin Rooms, 700 Logan College Dr, Carterville, IL 62918.

• June 15—Schaumburg SD #54 Professional Learning Center, 522 E Schaumburg Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60194.

info•register

Leadership Strand

Learning Leading Living

&

Women in Leadership:

AA 3665

The following open session is available: • June 7, 2022 Presented by Dr. Orzel .

Join us for an inspiring, motivating, important and FUN administrators’ academy! If you have already taken this academy, no worries. We’ll connect you with new leaders across Illinois to network, connect, engage and leave inspired. Bring your teams to these academies or send teacher leaders—we’re in this important work together. And, remember, male superintendents and administrators are encouraged to attend!

info•register

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PD ... cont’d.

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

IASA has established a full schedule of academies, both virtually and in- person, designed to help educators fulfill state requirements for evaluator initial training and retraining. Each academy is taught by an experienced and knowledgeable educator that will provide you with the tools and skills needed to become a stronger evaluator. Academies are being offered for principal evaluator retraining (AA 1865), teacher evaluator retraining (AA 1801) and student growth retraining for both principal and teacher evaluators (AA 3000). In addition, IASA is offering initial principal evaluator training (AA 2000) and initial teacher evaluator training (AA 2001). Please share this information with central office staff, principals or other staff in need of evaluation training. These sessions are open to anyone.

IASA Evaluator Retraining Academies

info•register

IASA Principal Evaluator Initial Training Academies

info•register

IASA Teacher Evaluation Initial Training Academies

info•register

Are you looking for an energetic, inspirational and re-energizing back to school opening? If so, contact me for options for your district. IASA can do a one hour, two hour or three hour Opening Institute. In addition, you can book a full-day workshop for your staff that will leave them energized and ready to take on the 2022–23 school year. Institute Days –MAKEANIMPACT Dr. Orzel was amazing and very inspiring. I learned a lot and found my passion again with teaching. Teaching can be an exhausting profession, but she reassured us that we will get through it

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Superintendents of Distinction

Congratulatory

Left to right: Dr. Steve Webb, 2022 Illinois Supt. of the Year; Dr. Jeff Stawick, IASA President; Jim Yale, Horace Mann.

sponsored by

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n

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i n c t

Superintendents of

i s t

2022

D

Awards Luncheon

sponsored by

Superintendents of Distinction are selected by their peers based on professionalism, communications, community involvement and leadership for learning. Recipients were honored May 4 at a luncheon in Springfield along with honorees from the Illinois Principals Association. State Superintendent Dr. Carmen Ayala was the keynote speaker. Thank you to Horace Mann for again sponsoring the luncheon.

ROFESS IONAL I SM • COMMUNICAT IONS • COMMUNI TY IN OLVEMENT • LEADERSHI P FOR LEARNING • PROFESS IONA CAT IONS • COMMUNI TY INVOLVEMENT • LEADERSHI P FOR

Dr. DeAnn Heck Central A&MCUD#21 Abe Lincoln

Shane Kazubowski Wethersfield CUSD#230 Blackhawk

Bob Bardwell Congerville-Eureka-Goodfield CUSD#140 Central Illinois Valley

Each of these superintendents are great examples of how strong leadership can improve the educational environment for students, strengthen communities and continuously push districts forward. —Dr. Brent Clark, IASA Executive Director

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Superintendents of Distinction

Dr. Nancy Wagner River Trails SD#26 Cook North

Dr. Von Mansfield Homewood Flossmoor CHSD#233 Cook South

Kim Petrasek MannheimSD#83 CookWest

NVOLVEMENT • LEADERSHI P FOR LEARNING • PROFESS IO AL I SM • COMMUNICAT IONS • COMMUNI TY INVOLVEMENT R LEARNING • PROFESS IONAL I SM • COMMUNICAT IONS •

Jeremy Darnell Gibson City-Melvin Sibley CUSD#5 Corn Belt

Dr. Hank Thiele CHSD#99 DuPage

Jeff Fetcho Hamilton County CUSD#10 Egyptian

Strong leadership has never been more critical. We are proud to recognize these Superintendents of Distinction for navigating their districts through the ongoing pursuit of providing a quality education for their students. —Marita Zuraitis, Horace Mann President and CEO

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Dr. Jeremy Larson Paris-Union SD#95 Illini

Robin Brooks Selmaville CCSD#10 Kaskaskia

Dr. Kathy Hinz Crystal Lake CCSD#47 Kishwaukee

NAL I SM • COMMUNICAT IONS • COMMUNI TY INVOLVEMEN INVOLVEMENT • LEADERSHI P FOR LEARNING • PROFESS MMUNICAT IONS • COMMUNI TY INVOLVEMENT • LEADERSH

Dr. Donn Mendoza Round Lake CUSD#116 Lake

Jason Harper Rochelle Twp HSD#212 Northwest

Jami Hodge Williamson Cty. Sp. Ed. Coop.#3 Shawnee

a t u l a t i o n s toour 2022 S

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Dr. Darcy Benway O’Fallon Twp HSD#203 Southwestern

Dr. Steven Wrobleski La Salle-Peru Twp HSD#120 Starved Rock

Dr. Lane Abrell Plainfield SD#202 Three Rivers

NT • LEADERSHI P FOR LEARNING • PROFESS IONAL I SM • IONAL I SM • COMMUNICAT IONS • COMMUNI TY INVOLVEM HI P FOR LEARNING • PROFESS IONAL I SM • COMMUNICAT I

AdamDean Triopia CUSD#27 Two Rivers

Cathy Croy Clay City CUSD#10 Wabash Valley

Paula Markey West Central CUSD#235 Western

Superintendents of Distinction

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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 someone to feature next month. To make a recommendation, contact Jason Nevel, IASA Director of Social Media and Publications, at jnevel@iasaedu.org or by calling 217–753–2213. Leigh Lewis Triad CUSD#2 Dr. EdwardCondon III River Forest SD#90

Who: Dr. Edward Condon III, superintendent

Who: Leigh Lewis, superintendent What: Created The Success Center for students who do not thrive in a traditional school environment; Passed an education referendum that brought stability to the district and improved the quality of education for students; Transitioning the district to green energy sources.

What: Equity initiatives focused on correcting biases and academic gaps between groups of students; Improving social-emotional supports for students; Continued curriculum developments. Where: River Forest SD #90, Cook West.

When: Superintendent of River Forest SD #90 for 11 years. Why: Despite receiving a high designation on the state report card in 2015, school officials at River Forest SD #90 recognized a problem. “We had a couple of situations occur back-to-back where it became pretty clear that not all students in our district were having the same type of experience moving through our school program,” said Dr. Condon. “There were unintended barriers that kept certain students from achieving at the highest levels and not feeling totally included. Membership in any demographic should not predict an individual’s achievement level or quality of experience.” In response, River Forest SD #90 launched a major equity initiative that has transformed the learning environment for all students.

Where: Triad CUSD #2, Southwestern Region. When: Superintendent of Triad CUSD #2 for 15 years. Why: To increase the percentage of Freshman on Track, Leigh Lewis recognized Triad CUSD #2 had to take a different approach. “Many times you have students that don’t thrive in a traditional high school environment,” said Lewis. “It’s not necessarily a behavior problem, but they might want a smaller environment where there are fewer restrictions.” The Success Center serves up to 40 students in 10th, 11th and 12th grades. The district has assigned five full-time teachers, a social worker and an administrator to help make it successful. To attend, students have to apply and interview. It’s currently housed in a former elementary building that was sitting vacant.

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Education Elevat g Lewis ... cont’d. Condon ... cont’d.

Students receive full instruction, but the program includes job shadowing and other career readiness opportunities. The smaller environment also makes it easier for the district to offer increased academic and social-emotional support to the students. Since its inception three years ago, all 12th graders have graduated on time with a plan for what they want to do after high school. “The students hold each other accountable, and it’s an environment where they don’t want to leave,” Lewis said. “I’m very proud of it. The Success Center is helping our students transition to the next step.” Lewis was also instrumental in the passage of an educational referendum in 2015 that has brought stability to the district and made a noticeable difference in the quality of education Triad CUSD #2 can provide. Before 2015, four attempts to pass the referendum had failed. Lewis shared with her peers how the district passed the referendum at the Joint Annual Conference. “We stayed away from the negatives and focused on the positives,” she said. “Our presentations to the community included lots of infographics, and we highlighted how the referendum would impact things like curriculum, facilities, transportation and technology.” Triad CUSD #2 has also been an early adopter of transitioning to green energy. The district has purchased three electric school buses with grant dollars and plans to purchase three more. In addition, the district has installed solar panels at three of its six buildings. The solar fields generate 110 percent of the energy those buildings require, saving the district money on utility costs. In addition, Triad CUSD #2 has received incentives totaling $328,000. “The district is excited about the long-term benefits of using solar energy,” Lewis said. “It’s not just about the cost benefit, it’s about leading the charge in our area when it comes to reducing pollution and emissions in our communities.”

The district implemented new instructional pedagogy, took steps to diversify the workforce, instituted professional development, adapted more culturally appropriate teaching materials, embedded equity goals into the district’s strategic plan and provided professional development to support Universal Design for Learning (UDL). “It’s an instructional approach intended to give students more choice and voice in their learning experience and provide multiple ways to demonstrate their learning,” Dr. Condon said about UDL. River Forest SD #90 is also addressing its social- emotional programming to better serve students experiencing challenges and trauma. The district is currently focusing on five key elements: • Relationships. • Social-emotional programming. • Trauma-related issues. • Screening and measurement. • Student-specific needs. Even during the pandemic, River Forest SD #90 continued to address curriculum and instruction needs. The district has progressed substantially on its standards-based learning initiative and will soon embark on implementing a new science curriculum. “It would have been easy to batten down the hatches the last couple of years with everything that was going on, but we remained committed to teaching and learning,” Dr. Condon said. “I am proud of our faculty, staff, and students. We are dedicated to academic achievement and are striving to maintain an unwavering focus on student success.”

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Chad Arnold, Account Exective (615) 305-0243 chad.arnold@blackboard.com

LegalCorner

Chad Watkins IASA Associate Director/General Counsel

Your Feedback Needed on IASA Legal Seminars/Workshops

Over the past two years, IASA has partnered with school law firms throughout Illinois to help superintendents deepen their knowledge and understanding of pertinent legal matters. Hundreds of superintendents have attended IASA Legal Workshops, held virtually and free to members. This

partnership has been successful for all, and we would like to continue to schedule legal workshops in the fall and spring each school year. To help us schedule seminars with topics you want covered, we have created a short survey. Your feedback is much appreciated.

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Gain insights from school attorneys at virtual workshop ZoomWebinar Free to IASAmembers

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May 24, 2022 • 10–Noon A Comprehensive Guide to Superinten- dent Compensation and Benefits Attorneys: Barb Erickson and Chad Watkins

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Article Submitted by CrisisGo 5 Reasons YouMust Meet PeopleWhere They Are When It Comes to Safety Even when organizations have the best intentions for employee protection, safety leaders often don’t have the tools needed to effectively manage safety, and their stakeholders may be lacking skills and expertise. It is your responsibility as a safety leader to find a solution that will help you put a strong plan in place, keep your employees out of danger and train your employees to become safety experts themselves. Implementing a new or better safety plan may seem time-consuming and tedious but breaking the process down into manageable goals is what will lead to success. You must meet your employees where they are as far as their knowledge, experience and skills. This simple act will lead to the highest levels of safety. Here are 5 reasons you must meet people where they are when it comes to safety:

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People Want the Easiest Set Up It is human nature to oppose change. It usually seems easier to follow an old familiar plan than to learn a new one. Explain to your stakeholders how direct and accessible a digital safety plan can be. Consider choosing a platform such as CrisisGo’s Safety iResponse, which can be set up and efficiently running in as little as five days. People Want the Easiest Solution to Use Some employees will continue to find reasons as to why they are reluctant to use new software. They may not be tech-savvy and may also be skeptical that new software is not as easy as it seems. Show them how they won’t need to carry around binders full of information. Make sure they know that training and tech support will be available to them and that you will work as a team when implementing any new plan. Let them know that they will not be alone on the path to better protection. Tech Support is Expected Nowadays As a safety leader, expect your stakeholders to be on different levels when it comes to knowledge of technology. Some will need more help than others. You may have a tendency to focus on those who have a basic skill level but consider that those who are technology experts will be the ones to test and challenge IT departments and tech support teams. Choose a safety platform that offers both live and on- demand training to help create a safety culture that is sustainable and generational.

People Process Information in Different Ways

According to the VARK model of learning, the four main types of learners are visual, auditory, reading (and writing), and kinesthetic (hands-on) learners. Since people learn in these different ways, and often a combination of the styles, it’s important you educate people about safety using varied methods. For example, you could give your stakeholders options for safety training and resources: slideshows with images for visual learners, podcasts for auditory learners, data sheets for those who prefer reading and writing, and drills and simulations of what to do during an emergency for kinesthetic learners. Ultimately, It’s Your Responsibility to Get Them to Understand the Plan The most important reason you must meet people where they are when they come to safety is that it is your responsibility. You must make sure to do whatever it takes for your whole organization to be prepared for emergencies. If you reach people at their level, they will be more likely to actively engage in the safety plans. Then, you can develop a safety culture that is sustainable and generational. It all starts with planning, communicating, sharing information and working together to reach the highest level of safety.

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Calendar of Events IASA Event Professional Development Event

Click here to view the IASA interactive Calendar of Events online.

Legislative Event Region Meeting (Contact your Region President for details)

May 2022

June 2022

Wed. June 1 Thurs. June 2

Coaching...Re-Finding Your Why Coaching...Re-Finding Your Why

Tues. May 3 Wed. May 4 Thurs. May 5

Shawnee

Webinars With Women

Cook South, Two Rivers

Tues. June 7 Women In Leadership...Academy Wed. June 8 DuPage Thurs. June 9 Teacher Eval. Retraining Principal Eval. Retraining Initial Principal Eval. (Day 1) Wed. June 15 Re-finding Your Why (In person) Thurs. June 16 Eval.Retraining: Student Growth Initial Principal Eval. (Day 2) Tues. June 14

Fri. May 6

Three Rivers, Cook West

Mon. May 9

IASA-ISBE Advisory Meeting

Tues. May 10 Coaching...Your Why Blackhawk Wed. May 11 DuPage Fri. May 13 Lake, Kaskaskia Wed. May 18 Egyptian Thurs. May 19 Central IL Valley S

Coaching...Re-Finding Your Why

Wed. June 22 m e r at Last !

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