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Leadership Matters May 2025

IASA Thanks District Leaders For Their Service

3 Superintendents Look Back On Years In Education

Dr. Zabilka Reflects on Career with IASA

IASA Superintendents of Distinction

SUPERINTENDENT CHECK - IN WITH 3 RETIRING LEADERS

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IASA spoke to three distinguished Illinois superintendents who are retiring on June 30 after dedicating decades to public education. They reflected on their expansive careers, sharing in sights gained through years of leadership and their hopes for Illinois public education’s future.

IASA Legal Corner: “First Amendment Audits” Elevating Education — Two New Leaders Featured Three Superintendent Keynote Speakers Announced AASA Governing Board Election Results Announced Professional Learning Message From Dr. Bridges

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IASA Superintendents of Distinction

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Superintendents of Distinction

School Immunizations Toolkit Shared

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Dr. Zabilka Reflects on Career With IASA

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May 2025 Leadership Matters

Volume 13, Issue 5

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

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Jason Nevel Director of Communications jnevel@iasaedu.org

Brandon Turley Graphic Designer bturley@iasaedu.org

1200 West Main Street Marion, IL 62959-1138 618.364.0501

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.

www.iasaedu.org

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Message From the Executive Director

Celebrating Our Retiring Educational Leaders

Dr. Brent Clark

As we close another remarkable school year, I want to take a moment to honor and thank the dedicated superintendents across Illinois who are concluding their distinguished careers in public education. Your decades of service and steadfast commitment to students have left an indelible mark on our state’s educational landscape. Many of you began your careers in education when computers were novelties in schools, when communication happened through handwritten memos and face-to-face conversations, and when the educational landscape looked vastly different than today. Whether as teachers, principals or administrators, you witnessed the transformation from chalkboards to smartboards, from encyclopedias to instant access to global information. More significantly, many of you navigated seismic policy shifts like No Child Left Behind, weathered economic downturns that threatened school budgets and, most recently, led your communities through a global pandemic that redefined how we think about teaching and learning. In the aftermath, you’ve tackled academic recovery while addressing student trauma and reimagining support systems where mental health services became essential for learning to flourish again. Through it all, you demonstrated strategic leadership that doesn’t just react to change—it leverages change to benefit students. Your collective advocacy with superintendent colleagues became a driving force behind one of Illinois education’s most significant victories: the passage of Illinois Vision 2020. This initiative delivered the Evidence-Based Funding formula, resulting in nearly

$2 billion in increased K-12 funding. You didn’t just support this legislation—you championed it, testified for it, and refused to accept the status quo when Illinois students deserved better. Your influence extended far beyond Springfield’s corridors. At IASA conferences and professional gatherings, you shared your innovations, struggles and breakthroughs, inspiring colleagues and sparking district wide improvements across the state. As you transition to retirement, your legacy lives on in the students you’ve served, the colleagues you’ve inspired and the communities you’ve strengthened. Your mentorship shaped emerging leaders, your wisdom guided districts through crisis and your commitment to excellence elevated public education across Illinois. Thank you for showing us what it means to lead with purpose and finish strong. Best wishes to everyone in retirement.

Click Here to View List of Retiring Superintendents

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3 5 5 Questions 3 Superintendents ’ responses

IASA spoke to three distinguished Illinois

superintendents who are retiring on June 30 after dedicating decades to public education. These veteran leaders have guided students, families, and communities through transformative changes in education—from technological advances to unprecedented global challenges. They reflected on their expansive careers, sharing insights gained through years of leadership and their hopes for Illinois public education’s future.

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Looking back on your career in education, what do you consider your most significant achievement as superintendent, and what key factors contributed to that success?

If you could go back and give advice to yourself on your first day as superintendent, what would you tell yourself?

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How has the educational landscape changed since you began your career?

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What’s the most challenging crisis or obstacle you faced during your tenure, and how did that experience shape your leadership approach?

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What advice would you give to other educational leaders about maintaining focus on student success while navigating the political and administrative demands of the role?

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Dr. Mary Ticknor Cook South, Lemont Twp HSD #210 Years as Superintendent: 13 Enrollment: 1,300 Type: 9-12

VIEW RESPONSES

Dr. Roger Alvey Central Illinois Valley, Illini Bluffs CUSD #327 Years as Superintendent: 24 Enrollment: 845 Type: preK-12

VIEW RESPONSES

Dr. Lori James-Gross Shawnee, Unity Point CCSD #140 Years as Superintendent: 23 Enrollment: 650 Type: preK-8

VIEW RESPONSES

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is t i n n Awards Luncheon c t io

sponsored by 2025

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Superintendents of Distinction are selected by their peers based on professionalism, communications, community involvement and leadership for learning. Recipients were honored May 15 at a luncheon in Springfield along with honorees from the Illinois Principals Association. State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders was the keynote speaker. Thank you to Stifel for again sponsoring the luncheon.

ROFESSIONALISM • COMMUNICATIONS • COMMUNITY IN OLVEMENT • LEADERSHIP FOR LEARNING • PROFESSIONA CATIONS • COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT • LEADERSHIP FOR

Tip Reedy Williamsville CUSD #15 Abe Lincoln

Dr. Adam Brumbaugh Geneseo CUSD #228 Blackhawk

Dr. Kyle Freeman Washington CHSD #308 Central Illinois Valley

Effective school leadership requires both vision and the ability to execute. “These Superintendents of Distinction have demonstrated both qualities consistently throughout their careers in education. —Dr. Brent Clark, IASA Executive Director

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Superintendents of Distinction

Dr. Shawn Schleizer, East Maine SD #63 Cook North

Dr. Johnnie Thomas Rich Twp HSD #227 Cook South

Dr. Kevin Skinkis Riverside-Brookfield Twp HSD #208 Cook West

NVOLVEMENT • LEADERSHIP FOR LEARNING • PROFESSIO ALISM • COMMUNICATIONS • COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT R LEARNING • PROFESSIONALISM • COMMUNICATIONS •

Jon Kilgore Pontiac Twp HSD #90 Corn Belt

Dr. Jeff Schuler CUSD #200 DuPage

Mike Denault Waltonville CUSD #1 Egyptian

The superintendents honored today exemplify the depth of leadership and personal commitment that exceptional superintendents bring to their districts to serve students and staff to be the best they can be. —Anne Noble, Managing Director of Stifel

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Superintendents ... cont’d.

Barb Thompson Fisher CUSD #1 Illini

David Powell Hillsboro CUSD #3 Kaskaskia

Dr. Ehren Jarrett Harvard CUSD #50 Kishwaukee

NALISM • COMMUNICATIONS • COMMUNITY INVOLVEMEN INVOLVEMENT • LEADERSHIP FOR LEARNING • PROFESS MMUNICATIONS • COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT • LEADERSH

Dr. Jesse J. Rodriguez Zion-Benton Twp HSD #126 Lake

Dr. Alex Kashner Eastland CUSD #308 Northwest

Kathy Clark Johnston City CUSD #1 Shawnee

a t u l a t i o n s to our 2025 S

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Dr. Carrie Hruby O’Fallon CCSD #90 Southwestern

Dr. Michael Miller Henry-Senachwine CUSD #5 Starved Rock

Dr. Shannon Dudek Morris SD #54 Three Rivers

NT • LEADERSHIP FOR LEARNING • PROFESSIONALISM • IONALISM • COMMUNICATIONS • COMMUNITY INVOLVEM HIP FOR LEARNING • PROFESSIONALISM • COMMUNICATI

Dr. Donna Veile Payson CUSD #1 Two Rivers

Matt Sturgeon Teutopolis CUSD #50 Wabash Valley

Angela Simmons-Kenser CUSD #3 Fulton County Western

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School Immunization Toolkit Free Resource to Help Keep Students in School

Story submitted by Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics

The Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (ICAAP) represents pediatricians across the state. Over the last six months, ICAAP has worked to create a resource to help achieve a goal pediatricians and school leaders share: to help children learn, attend school, socialize, and participate in activities. Keeping children healthy and safe from disease allows all those things to happen. As respected leaders in school communities, School Administrators can encourage students and their families to stay up to date with routine and required immunizations. Vaccines are a safe and critical tool in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, reducing the risk of outbreaks, and protecting individuals and entire com munities. When children are healthy, they spend more time at school, participating in group activities, and grow into resilient, well-rounded adults. The School Immunizations Toolkit is full of resources to help increase vaccine confidence and maximize vaccine compli ance. It was created in collaboration with the Illinois Depart ment of Public Health, Chicago Department of Public Health, Illinois State Board of Education, Illinois Association of School Nurses, and Chicago Public Schools. Through this toolkit, School Administrators and other school leaders can utilize

customizable, comprehensive, and ready-to-go materials, including: • Simplified breakdown of the minimum immunization require ments by grade for all Illinois schools, childcare facilities, and pre-kindergarten programs. • Outreach materials for parents and guardians, available in English and Spanish. • Customizable email templates and handouts to guardians about the Certificate of Child Health Examination form and vaccine requirements by grade. • Social media toolkits with messaging tailored to school communities. • Sample timelines for outreach to maximize vaccine-confident messages on social media and other school communication channels. • A list of recommended but not required immunizations that are just as important to protecting and strengthening a child’s health from preventable diseases, and even some cancers. • An adolescent-specific vaccination handout that helps inform parents and guardians of adolescents of the required and recommended immunizations

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• Guidance on increasing collaboration with local pediatric providers to ensure comprehensive, integrated care is available to students. Recognizing the rich diversity of Illinois’ student population, the toolkit also includes culturally responsive resources to support students from all backgrounds such as: • Resources for new arrivals, including ICAAP’s Global Vaccine Comparison Chart to assist with interpreting vaccination records from international students. • Guidance for working with McKinney-Vento eligible students. • Information on the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, which provides free vaccines to children who are Medic aid-eligible, uninsured, underinsured, or identify as American Indian or Alaska Native. Now more than ever, this is a critical task for everyone in all child health and well-being sectors. ICAAP is dedicated to continuing to bring together partners across sectors to create tools vital in aiding the hard work that membership and

partners do across the state. The work does not end here, as vaccine-preventable illnesses spread across the U.S., ICAAP is updating this Toolkit to include a section on preparing and responding to disease outbreaks. It is important that districts and schools are equipped with information on how to deal with suspected or confirmed cases of infectious diseases, ensure the safety of students and staff, and educate families on vaccine requirements and school exclusion policies. The best time to share school vaccine information is before the next school year starts. Use this toolkit to create a com munication plan, share vaccine-confident messages, promote compliance with state requirements, and educate families. This and additional resources are available on the Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (ICAAP) website here. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the health and future of Illinois children.

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From ISAL to Mentoring:

Dr. Gary Zabilka Reflects on 13 Years of Service with IASA

IASA is saying goodbye to Dr. Gary Zabilka after 13 years with IASA as a Field Services Director, ISAL Facilitator and most recently as Director of Transitions and Connections. Before joining IASA, Dr. Zabilka served as superintendent of Morton Grove School District 70 and at Puffer-Hefty School District 69 in Downers Grove. His career in education spans more than 40 years.

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Throughout your career mentoring new superintendents, what patterns or challenges have you observed as most common among those entering the role? Q : The biggest “consistency” I have noticed over the years is how “overwhelmed” every new superintendent feels at the New Superintendent’s Conference as they begin their first year in the chair. At the Conference, the new superin tendents typically hear about Board relations, finance, per sonnel, insurance, Board policy, their contracts—you name it—and, at some point, their eyes begin to glaze over with thoughts of “what did I get myself into?” Yet, once they get on the job and begin to do the work, they recognize that all of those aforementioned topics don’t all arise at once and, just like any new role, they begin to feel more comfortable addressing the myriad of topics that superintendents deal with in their positions. New superintendents recognize that theirs is not an easy job, but it’s more manageable once they realize that everything doesn’t need to be addressed in the first month, and possibly not even in the first year. A : even imagine would arise. Because of the addition of the Field Services Director positions, all new superintendents knew they had a “lifeline” with someone who had been a successful superintendent and was only a phone call away. “ I truly believe that most of us go into education to make a difference and to make the world a better place because of our efforts. Whether we focus on students, teachers, administrators, communities, or superintendents, the end game—hopefully—is to make that difference or to have improved the world in some way. -Dr. Gary Zabilka

You may have heard Lou Gehrig’s quote, ‘I feel like the luckiest man on the face of the earth,’ but that’s truly how I have felt these last 13 years serving as a Field Services Director. I loved being a superintendent for 13 years before retiring and, upon joining IASA immediately after retirement, I looked forward to mentoring and sup porting new superintendents for what I thought would be about the next 5 years or so. Before I knew it, 13 years had passed. I have enjoyed every moment—really! Watching the growth of brand-new superintendents that first year, supporting them so they don’t feel so overwhelmed, and then seeing them navigate those first couple of years successfully has been the most fulfilling aspect of this role, as well as the development of great relationships with so many of them. after retiring from your superintendent position? What aspects have you found most fulfilling? A : As one of the original Field Services Directors when the position was conceived 13 years ago, what was it like to help define this role within the Illinois Association of School Administrators? Q : There were only three Field Service Directors when the roles were initially developed, and Dr. Nick Osborne, Dr. Bill Phillips, and I covered the entire state during those first couple of years. At that time (and I know this is going to sound like ancient history), we weren’t using Zoom yet, so we “traversed” the entire State of Illinois—which be comes very large when you’re driving to region meetings and districts, especially mid-state and downstate. We did our best to arrange schedules to meet with as many newer superintendents as we could in person, and then by phone when we couldn’t coordinate our schedules. The most important message we emphasized at that time was for new superintendents to call us if they had ques tions or needed assistance solving problems they couldn’t A : Q : How rewarding has it been to maintain your connection to the educational field as a Field Services Director

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Having first been a participant in the ISAL program and later the facilitator, what transformations have you witnessed in participants that have been most meaningful to you personally? Q : IASA’s School for Advanced Leadership (ISAL) has truly been a blessing for so many of our superintendents over the past several years. I don’t think it’s been a coincidence that superintendents who have gone through the ISAL program have truly enhanced their “leadership” qualities by serving in various IASA roles within their regions or in the state, by lead ing workshops and Academies at conferences, by keynoting and sharing their experiences in a variety of venues, and by writing books and articles promoting the value of quality leadership in our profession. ISAL provides a unique blend of both professional AND personal reflections and challenges to support one’s leadership growth to not only enhance/improve their school districts but also to grow as a leader and as an individual who can greatly impact others in our profession. Having had the pleasure of working with Dr. Nancy Blair for each of those cohorts has also taught me to be a better leader and person, which I was able to utilize in my roles with IASA. A :

I truly believe that most of us go into education to make a difference and to make the world a better place because of our efforts. Whether we focus on students, teachers, admin istrators, communities, or superintendents, the end game— hopefully—is to make that difference or to have improved the world in some way. Having been blessed to be a part of IASA for the past 13 years, I have seen the efforts of the Association do all that it can to support our superintendents and school leaders in every way possible to provide the best educational “systems” they can for their respective communities, and to support them in their leadership journeys to have that impact. My hope for my legacy is that I not only supported and represented the Association and its mission successfully, but that I positively impacted the next generation of school leaders—our superintendents—one superintendent at a time. Looking back at your journey from superintendent to pioneering t he Field Services Director role to your work with ISAL, what legacy do you hope to leave on educational leadership in Illinois? Q : A :

Got Great School Videos? Send your school videos with a short description to jnevel@iasaedu.org. We want to highlight what’s going on in your school districts on our magazine’s Videos from the Districts page.

Monthly e-magazine of Leadership Matters

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Legal Corner

Chad Watkins IASA Associate Director/General Counsel

To help school leaders navigate uncertain times, IASA has partnered with leading law firms throughout Illinois to provide districts with critical guidance during the 2024–25 school year. In Leadership Matters, the IASA Legal Corner will showcase an article written by attorneys who specialize in legal matters related to education. It is our hope you find the content insightful,

timely and helpful in addressing the critical matters you face. This issue, attorneys from Robbins Schwartz share their insights on “First Amendment Audits.” As a reminder, IASA Legal Corner articles are provided for informational purposes only, and you are advised to contact your district counsel for legal advice. Click on the link below to access the article.

“First Amendment Audits” Test Boundaries at Public Institutions

Story By

Public institutions have seen a recent uptick in “First Amendment audits,” where a private citizen will enter public spaces while recording video on their cell phone and typically demand documents under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”). The “auditors” also often demand that public employees identify themselves while refusing to identify themselves (which they are not required to do), and they sometimes engage in more confrontational behavior while recording employees’ responses. They often later upload videos of interactions to social media websites, such as YouTube, which may generate additional records requests or complaints to the institution. Generally, these activities are protected by the First Amendment, as well as FOIA, unless the visitor becomes physically violent or unreasonably disruptive to an employee’s ability to serve others. However, visitors must comply with reasonable, pre-established security procedures, and they are not entitled to film without permission in private spaces, such as a private office, conference room, or any classroom. These visitors frequently request documents to verify whether

the institution will comply with various requirements under FOIA, including some requirements separate from more routine processes for responding to FOIA requests.

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Education Elevat g

Dr. Don Angelaccio Superintendent Prospect Heights SD#23, Cook North

Dr. Lisa Taylor, Superintendent Heyworth CUSD #4, Corn Belt

Who: Dr. Don Angelaccio, Superintendent

Who: Dr. Lisa Taylor, Superintendent What: Modernized district facilities by constructing a new high school gymnasium, converting libraries into learning hubs, building an administrative complex, and equipping classrooms with flexible furniture and integrated technology; Lowered classroom sizes and added academic support for students; Expanded dual credit offerings

What: Cultivated a strong culture where staff and families know and respect each other; Emphasized social-emotional learning, inclusion and trauma-informed practices through strategic professional

development; Helped district become a leader in special education services, including being named a 2024 National Banner Unified Champion School by the Special Olympic; Member of multiple boards and committees, including IASA Board of Directors. Where: Prospect Heights SD #23, Cook North When: Superintendent of Prospect Heights SD #23 for eight years Why: The jump from social worker into school administration may not sound like a natural transition, but Dr. Don Angelaccio quickly learned there was significant overlap in the skill sets required for both roles. “My background in therapeutic social work has proven invaluable in my administrative role,” Dr. Angelaccio said. “In fact, I find myself practicing more social work than ever before—most people who come through my door need someone to help them regulate emotions, provide guidance, resolve conflicts, offer coaching, and navigate complex systems of support. The skills of managing people and building supportive structures are just as essential in administration as they are in direct practice.”

from two to 17 courses; Reduced the property tax rate while building up reserves; IASA Region President; Mentor to female superintendents. Where: Heyworth CUSD #4, Corn Belt When: Superintendent of Heyworth CUSD #4 for nine years; Superintendent of Decatur Unit SD #61. Why: Though life circumstances forced her mother to drop out of high school, the resilience she showed by returning to earn her GED with straight A’s instilled in Dr. Lisa Taylor an enduring belief in the power of public education to transform lives. “As the first in my family to graduate from college, I not only fulfilled a personal goal but also helped redefine what was possible for everyone around me,” Dr. Taylor said. “My academic journey became a catalyst for change—soon after, three of my siblings pursued and earned their own college degrees. Together, we shifted the trajectory of our family, proving that breaking generational cycles is possible with determination and a strong work ethic.”

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Education Elevat g Angelaccio ... cont’d. Taylor ... cont’d.

At Prospect Heights SD #23, Dr. Angelaccio and his team have helped cultivate a strong culture where the school district and community form collaborative partnerships to enhance student success and well-being. “Because we’re a smaller district, we really do know the families and the families know us,” he said. “It’s a characteristic we lean into.” During the pandemic, the district offered synchronous learning opportunities and put a strong emphasis on social-emotional learning, inclusion and trauma-informed practices. Combined with strategic professional development for staff in those core areas, the district built a foundation for strong academic growth — including having schools named Exemplary by the Illinois State Board of Education — as well as favorable scores on the 5 Essentials Survey. “We prioritized continuity of relationships above all else during the pandemic,” Dr. Angelaccio said. “We focused on ensuring students could still see each other’s faces and maintain connections, even when physically separated. By preserving those vital interactions through our hybrid model, we created stability during an uncertain time, which ultimately supported both emotional well-being and academic progress.” Creating communities of belonging has been a hallmark of Dr. Angelaccio’s tenure at Prospect Heights SD #23. Under his leadership, the district provides comprehensive in-house special education services and behavioral classes for low-incidence situations. This commitment to inclusive practices extends beyond the classroom to after-school programming, contributing to MacArthur Middle School’s prestigious, two-time recognition as a 2021 and 2024 National Banner Unified Champion School by the Special Olympics. Only seven schools in Illinois met the 10 rigorous national standards of excellence set by the Special Olympics. Outside of the district, Dr. Angelaccio has prioritized networking and relationship-building. He currently serves on the IASA Board of Directors, Governing Board of the North Cook Intermediate Service Center and Midwest Principals’ Center Advisory Board. “The most important thing IASA does is bring people together,” Dr. Angelaccio said. “We learn from one another and, most importantly, recognize that we’re not alone in this challenging role as superintendents. It’s comforting to know others are going through the same experiences and support is only a phone call away.”

Today, as superintendent of Heyworth CUSD #4, Dr. Taylor’s personal experiences have helped guide her in creating a modern educational ecosystem that focuses on the whole child as well as college and career readiness. Under Dr. Taylor’s leadership, the district has transformed its physical infrastructure, completing construction of a modern high school gymnasium, refurbishing both school libraries into contemporary learning hubs, and building a new administrative complex while reimagining classroom spaces with adaptable furnishings and seamlessly integrated technology. “We have very few traditional classrooms and want our learning environments to be flexible, comfortable and have the capability to accommodate larger group learning,” Dr. Taylor said. To prioritize foundational learning, the district has invested in smaller class environments by adding three full-time teachers in grades K-2, ensuring a maximum of 15 students per classroom. This commitment extends to individualized support through two certified academic interventionists who provide targeted assistance to students who need it most. Beyond staffing, Dr. Taylor has championed early literacy initiatives, regularly refreshed curriculum resources, dedicated time for teacher collaboration, and cultivated community confidence through transparent leadership practices. At the high school level, the district has expanded dual credit offerings from two to 17 courses, with the goal of eventually making it possible for students in the district to earn their Associate’s Degree before high school graduation. “Our main goal at Heyworth is preparing kids for whatever comes next - college or a career,” Dr. Taylor said. “We invested in hiring a Career Coordinator, which has been really successful. Students are getting the skills they need for life, with the added bonus that many save thousands each year by taking college courses while still in high school.” All of the accomplishments at Heyworth CUSD #4 the past nine years have come with the taxpayer in mind. The district went from the highest school district property tax rate in McLean County in 2016 to the lowest thanks to good fiscal management and an emphasis on seeking grants and sponsorships. Outside of the district, Dr. Taylor serves as IASA Region President in the Corn Belt Region and has taken a more active role in mentoring young female superintendents.

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News In Brief

AASA Election Results: Bridges, Dugan Named to AASA Governing Board

In March, a call for nominations to the AASA Governing Board was issued. One seat was open in both the Northeastern and Southern IASA Super Regions for the election held in 2025. Each seat is for a three-year term.

The new governing board members are: IASA Northeastern Super Region • Dan Bridges, Superintendent of Naperville CUSD #203 (term expires June 30, 2028) IASA Southern Super Region • Dr. Todd Dugan, Superintendent of Bunker Hill CUSD #8 (term expires June 30, 2028)

Dan Bridges

Todd Dugan

In total, Illinois holds six seats on the AASA Governing Board. The other AASA Governing Board members are: Northcentral Super Region • Dr. Kristin Humphries, Superintendent - East Moline SD #37 (Term expires June 30, 2026) • Timothy Schurman, Superintendent – Chadwick-Milledgeville CUSD #399 (Term expires June 30, 2027) Northeastern Super Region • Dr. Michael C. Connolly, Superintendent - Wheeling CCSD #21 (Term expires June 30, 2026) Southern Super Region • Dr. Kevin Blankenship, Superintendent – Scott Morgan CUSD #2 and Winchester CUSD #1 (Term expires June 30, 2027) AASA Executive Committee Illinois also has one seat on the AASA Executive Committee. The 21-member Executive Committee meets quarterly and conducts the ongoing business of the organization between the two meetings of the Governing Board. Illinois’ representative is: • Dr. Jennifer Kelsall, Superintendent - Ridgewood CHSD #234 (Term expires 6/30/2027)

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 Audra Braski, Senior Vice President, Investment Services/ISDLAF+ at 630–657–6422, or email: abraski@ pmanetwork.com. Website: www.pmanetwork.com.

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Professional Learning

Dr. Dawn Bridges IASA Associate Director of Professional Learning

With Endings Come New Beginnings: Setting the Stage for 2025–2026

As the school year draws to a close and retirements are celebrated, we’re reminded that every ending is also a new beginning. This season of transition marks not just the conclusion of one chapter, but the exciting potential of what comes next — new roles, fresh ideas, and the start of another opportunity to lead, learn, and grow. For those stepping into superintendency for the first time, summer is a natural launchpad for reflection and renewal. And for all district leaders — whether newly appointed or seasoned veterans — now is the perfect time to look ahead and intentionally plan professional learning for the 2025–2026 school year. At IASA, we believe that professional growth doesn’t pause during the summer months — it deepens. As the lead learners in your districts, superintendents set the tone for continuous improvement. That means making space to feed your own learning. The demands of the role are great, and so is the need to replenish your own capacity to lead effectively. The stronger you are as a learner, the stronger your system becomes. To support you on this journey, IASA has already begun preparing for a new year of innovative, high-impact professional learning. Whether you’re looking to launch a new strategic plan, develop your leadership team, or explore cutting-edge topics like AI integration, financial stewardship, or legal trends, we are here to partner with you.

We’re especially excited about several upcoming opportunities: • IASA New Superintendents Conference – July 14–16, 2025 in Springfield This essential gathering is designed for those entering the superintendency and offers practical strategies, experienced mentorship, and immediate tools to support your first 90 days. • IASA Annual Conference – September 24–26, 2025 Mark your calendar for this statewide convening that connects you with peers, energizes your vision, and brings the lates thinking in leadership, policy, and innovation. We know every district is different. That’s why IASA offers tailored facilitation, coaching, and customized learning pathways that align with your goals, your team, and your timeline. If you’re unsure where to start or are thinking about building your professional learning calendar, we’d love to connect and help you design a plan that fits. So as we turn the page on this year, let’s also look ahead with clarity and confidence. Let this be the year you invest boldly in your leadership — and in yourself because with every ending comes a powerful new beginning.

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PL ...cont’d.

2025 NEW SUPERINTENDENTS CONFERENCE

This conference is designed to help new superintendents successfully transition into their new leadership role. Hear from practitioners who walked in your shoes and understand the challenges you face. The speakers will share personal stories and offer practical advice about how to succeed in the superintendency. Topics covered include board relations, school finance, do’s and don’ts, leadership lessons, legal advice and personal health. Upcoming dates: July 14-16. info•register

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 2025.

info•register

Grants Management and ISBE Resources for School Finance Acquiring additional funding through state and federal grants is crucial to support innovative programs, enhance student experiences and promote overall educational excellence. To help you navigate the grant application process, understand key compliance requirements, and other ISBE finance resources, IASA is offering a virtual workshop in cooperation with the Illinois State Board of Education Grants

Management and Finance team. Register for this free online webinar to deepen your understanding of the nuances of the grant application process and various other ISBE finance requirements. Upcoming date: June 26, July 22.

info•register

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IASA Academy

Introduction of AI to District Leaders This training will provide district leaders with an Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI), focusing on how AI can be applied to improve district operations, enhance decision-making processes, and prepare students for a tech-driven world. Each participant will explore real-world applications of AI in education and its potential impact on the future of learning. Upcoming dates: June 16. In Action Future-Focused Learning

AA #4144

info•register

Problem-Solving and Collective Bargaining Using an Interest-Based Approach AA 3782

Professional Development

This academy will provide Administrators, Board Members and Association (Union) Members with an in-depth overview of the concepts included in the Interest-Based Bargaining method that can be used as problem-solving techniques as well. Specifically, the course provides

participants information on the three main components of Interest-Based Bargaining: Training, “Communication Lab” and Bargaining. Upcoming dates: June 23. info•register

Professional Learning

Leadership Strand

Special Opportunity From:

Leading at the Speed of Trust Learn how to improve culture with the 4 Cores of Credibility and 13 Behaviors® of High Trust.

IASA Workshop • Only Offered Twice!

Trust is the foundation of all great leadership, and in schools, it is the key to creating a culture that thrives in times of change and complexity. The Leading at the Speed of Trust workshop equips school and district leaders with actionable tools to build, sustain, and restore trust at every level of their organization. Grounded in Franklin Covey’s 4 Cores of Credibility and the 13 Behaviors

of High Trust , this workshop provides a proven framework for fostering stronger relationships, driving collaboration, and achieving better results—faster and with less friction. Upcoming dates: November 5.

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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: June 9 info•register

Leadership Strand Why Your Why Matters AA 1445

New presenter Dr. Dawn Bridges’ version of this academy coaches participants to reconnect with their reasons for becoming and remaining educators, to learn to connect more deeply with and support their colleagues and team members, and ultimately to re-confirm their commitment to educating students and improving schools. Participants will examine their own motivations and current social emotional condition,

learn those of their colleagues and—through sharing, discussion and role playing—acquire and practice strategies to coach themselves and team members into healthier social-emotional states. Upcoming dates: June 18.

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Budget

Starting at the

Basics

Beginning

retired superintendent and IASA Field Services Director, has designed a 6 hour introductory session and 3 hour refresher workshop to accommodate the different needs in the field. Upcoming dates: July 14-28

Are you a new superintendent or bookkeeper in need of an introductory workshop that will walk you through the budget process from development of the tentative budget through adoption of the final budget? Or are you a veteran superintendent in need of a refresher course? IASA has you covered. IASA is offering two different versions of our popular Budget Basics finance workshop. The presenter, Diane Robertson, a

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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)

July 2025

June 2025

Mon., June 2

Getting Your Nights and Weekends Back with AI (Naperville)

Mon., July 7-28

Budget Basics Workshop

Wed., June 4-5

Evaluator Academy for Principals AA #4050

Mon., July 14-16 New Superintendents Conference

Thurs., June 5

Getting Your Nights and Weekends Back with AI (Mt. Vernon)

Tues., July 22-23 Evaluator Academy for Principals AA #4050

Mon., June 9

Getting Your Nights and Weekends Back with AI (Normal) Safety Site Assessment AA 3858

Wed., July 30

IASA Board of Directors

Fri., June 13

Illinois Performance Evaluator Retraining – Student Growth AA 3000

Wed., June 18

Why Your Why Matters AA 1445

Sun., June 22-26 IASA Aspiring Superintendent Academy

Mon., June 23

Initial Teacher Evaluator Training AA 2001

Mon., June 23

Problem-Solving and Collective Bargaining AA 3782

Thurs., June 26

Teacher Evaluator Retraining AA 1801

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