LM Oct 2021

Message From the Executive Director ManyMemories And Highlights From IASA’s 57th Annual Conference

Dr. Brent Clark

she served as Research and Budget Analyst. In her duties, she worked directly with lobbyists, agencies and legislators to negotiate education policy. Emily is in her fourth year as superintendent of East Alton SD #13. Adding another superintendent to our team who is passionate about advocating for school leaders and public education will elevate our association and improve services to members. Madeline started Oct. 1 and Emily will begin Jan. 1. On the legislative front, the fall veto session is scheduled for Oct. 19–21 and Oct. 26–28. The Illinois House and Senate are expected to vote to finalize a new congressional map and subdistrict maps for elections in 2022 and beyond. Meanwhile, it’s possible, albeit not likely, the General Assembly considers legislation during the veto session that would lay out penalties for schools that violate COVID-19 health and safety protocols. Lawmakers considered one proposal in the spring, HB 2789, but it stalled after more than 16,000 people filled out witness slips in opposition. However, it’s possible the General Assembly considers legislation to narrow and more clearly define the Illinois Health Care Right of Conscience Act. IASA will be monitoring that issue closely and keep you updated via Capitol Watch. To close, I hope everyone who attended IASA’s Annual Conference took something back to your district that will help you get through the school year and continue to make a positive impact on your students and staff. Your leadership will continue to be needed throughout this difficult school year.

Inspiring messages. Dynamic breakout sessions. Reconnecting in person after a two-year hiatus. Yep, IASA’s 57th Annual Conference definitely featured memorable moments and impactful experiences. But a personal highlight for me was the opportunity to discuss the significant contributions Diane Hendren (who I kid is our Senior Director of Governmental Relations until Jan. 1) has made and share how our association is evolving and moving forward, with the additions of Madeline McCune and Emily Warnecke. Seventeen years ago, my predecessor, the late Dr. Walt Warfield, and the IASA Board of Directors recognized IASA needed a full time Director of Governmental Relations to strengthen our political advocacy efforts. Diane provided IASA instant credibility, knowledge and experience at the statehouse. She nimbly navigated political landmines and played a key role in the passage of important issues and initiatives of the Vision 20/20 effort. Furthermore, I can say with confidence, the Illinois School Code would be thicker than it is today if not for her expertise. I want to once again publicly thank Diane for her contributions to IASA and our profession. I couldn’t have asked for a better teammate at the statehouse. With that, every association has to adapt and find new people to step into important roles. At the Annual Conference, I introduced our two newest team members, who we will share with the Illinois Association of School Business Officials. Madeline McCune will serve as Director of Governmental Relations and Emily Warnecke as Director of Public Relations/Deputy Director of Governmental Relations. Madeline comes to IASA from the Illinois House of Representatives, where

3 LM October 2021