LM Nov2020

be a district that focuses on equity, inclusiveness and just what it means to have a positive learning environment that focuses on the whole child,” Dr. Kelley said. District 97 has strived to make sure all students have access to a rigorous curriculum, provided staff with access to the highest quality of instruction material, invested in instructional coaches, redesigned leadership teams, supported and encouraged staff to become National Board Certified Teachers and refined the district’s multi-tiered system of support. The efforts have helped the district narrow the achievement gap and elevate scores on the 5 Essentials Survey. “We want all students to feel like they belong and be confident, consistent achievers, as well as be empowered and passionate scholars,” Dr. Kelley said. Dr. Kelley is also passionate about restorative justice and is committed to focusing district practices through an equity lens. To support those efforts, District 97 partnered with the National Equity Project to help improve culture and climate. “We want all students to experience D97 the same,” she said. “We will continue to be persistent in our goals and meet the challenges in the future head on.” Elevat g Kelley ... cont’d.

Cox ... cont’d. With professional development, the two areas he’s most passionate about are strategic planning and communication. Cox focuses on helping school leaders build connections with stakeholders and set goals around the district’s vision. He also believes strongly in communication and has mentored his peers about how to better communicate with their Board, staff and community. Furthermore, Cox believes strongly that part of his duties include being an advocate for public education. He testified numerous times at the capitol and partnered with IASA and other groups to advocate for equitable and adequate funding for public schools. He also maintains a strong connection with local legislators and makes his voice heard on other issues that impact schools. “I really believe that public education is the best cornerstone of our democracy,” Cox says. “What we need is for all kids to have access to a high quality education and for the districts to have the resources they need to meet the needs of every kid. Superintendents have to be engaged in the process for that to happen.”

HR 101: An Overviewof Essential Employment Laws and Considerations

Don’t miss our latest podcast designed to refresh and improve legal knowledge on employment laws in Illinois. Our guests are Franczek P.C. attorneys Dana Fattore Crumley and Shelli Anderson. Click on the podcast icon below to listen.

9 LM November 2020