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October 2023 Leadership Matters

Workgroup Convenes in Springfield for First Meeting Fulfilling the Promise of Education

IASA 59th Annual Conference In Pictures

PD Opportunities In FY24

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The Vision 2030 Workgroup convened in Springfield Oct. 18 to formulate priorities and policy positions that will serve as an advocacy framework. Learn about the first meeting. VISION 2030 WORKGROUP MEETS

8 IASA Annual Conference In Pictures

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Elevating Education

IASA PD Opportunities

18 Compliance Plus Participants Q & A

EBF Making A Difference

Legal Workshop Registration

24 Building a Support Network in the Superintendency

IASA Calendar of Events

Volume 11, Issue 9 October 2023 Leadership Matters 23250

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

Jason Nevel Director of Communications jnevel@iasaedu.org

Marjorie Gladish Graphic Designer mgladish@iasaedu.org

1200 West Main Street Marion, IL 62959-1138 618.364.0501

www.iasaedu.org

Scan here with your phone’s QR code reader to get the IASA APP— Don’t have a QR reader? Go to or and search for IllinoisASA.

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Message From the Executive Director Charting a Course For the Future Through Vision 2030

Dr. Brent Clark

mandates, post-secondary options for students and how do we make the teaching profession more attractive to young people. These conversations will form the basis of a new blueprint for public education in Illinois. I believe one of the reasons the excitement was tangible is because superintendents recognize we cannot wait any longer to chart a course for the future. The attacks on public education have intensified, the job market is shifting and many students are struggling to read at grade level. Over the next year, the Vision 2030 Workgroup will meet and education policy positions will form on these matters and other issues. We will ask for your input via a statewide survey released in November. When the time comes and you’ve had an opportunity to consider the Vision 2030 priorities, I hope you will join your peers from across the state in encouraging your school boards to pass resolutions in support of Vision 2030. That will help increase the visibility and profile of the policies and initiatives of Vision 2030 so the Illinois General Assembly and Governor will take note and consider making changes that will result in an education system that better meets the needs of all students. The time is now to chart a course for the future.

How do we chart a course for the future? More than a decade ago, leaders across our state began to drill down on that very question as the challenges facing public education mounted. Technology in schools was inequitable. General State Aid was beginning to be prorated. A teacher shortage was looming. Access to preschool needed to be expanded. The state’s accountability system was not differentiated. And, quite honestly, the traditional model of teaching and learning was outdated. From that, the idea of Vision 2020 was born. Statewide education organizations could no longer simply oppose legislative proposals. We needed to come together and chart a pathway forward for the Illinois General Assembly to follow. In the year 2023, it’s our responsibility to once again reflect upon the current state of education in Illinois and formulate priorities and policy positions that will serve as a framework for guiding advocacy efforts throughout this decade. That’s why I am incredibly excited for Vision 2030. On Oct. 18, we held our first meeting in Springfield with the Vision 2030 Workgroup. The team is composed of more than 100 superintendents and statewide education stakeholders. The ECRA Group will once again serve as the project design partner. From the outset of the meeting, the enthusiasm in the room was palpable. People were excited to engage in deep discussions on pressing issues such as unfunded

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Vision 2030 Workgroup Convenes in Springfield for First Meeting

By Jason Nevel, IASA Director of Communications

A lack of flexibility in the workday. Limited access to mental health resources. Mandates continue to strip away local control. The Tier II pension system is not attractive to new employees.

Those were among the challenges cited and discussed during the first Vision 2030 Workgroup in Springfield on October 18. The team has been assembled to reflect upon the current state of education in Illinois and formulate priorities and policy positions that will serve as a framework for guiding advocacy efforts moving forward. Members include representatives from numerous statewide education organizations. Overall, the Workgroup has more than 100 members.

The visioning process, facilitated by the ECRA Group, will include two more meetings in January 2024 and May 2024. A statewide survey will also be conducted in November 2023, allowing for more feedback from a broader pool of educators. The Policy Briefs will go to the

IASA Board of Directors in July 2024 for final approval.

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The decision to launch Vision 2030 was based on the success of Vision 2020 (see page 7 for a more detailed history), the need to look at public education in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and a desire to create an updated document that articulates what educators stand for and want to see happen in Illinois over this decade. “There’s no question that the policy

During the visioning meeting, the Workgroup was divided into four subcommittees, where members engaged in deep discussions on education policy issues that will shape priority platforms for Vision 2030. The four smaller Workgroups are Student Success, Educator Excellence, Accountability and Finance & Funding. A facilitator asked the subcommittees to discuss what

decisions that happen at the state capital matter immensely to our schools,” IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark said. “We’re here today to chart a course for the future and make a stronger public education system for our students.”

We’re going to create a groundswell of activity that the Illinois General Assembly and policymakers cannot ignore.

is working well, what are the challenges and what are the

priorities moving forward. By the end of the meeting, each subcommittee drafted priority statements that will

continued...

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Why Support

?

What is IPAC? IPAC is a statewide, non-partisan Political Action Committee (PAC), organized by members of the Illinois Association of School Administrators. It is funded by contributions from indi vidual school administrators and the IASA. The dollars are dis tributed strategically as campaign contributions to legislators from both political parties aligned with our educational mission. Why support IPAC? A well-funded IPAC is an essential tool to get legislators to listen to our challenges and support our mission. Your donation ensures IASA keeps its seat at the table, secures face-to-face time with legislators and continues to have meaningful input on education policy. This partnership plays a key role in advancing IASA legislative priorities, reducing unfunded mandates and limiting legislation that could be harmful to school districts. Contributions are also vital in IASA’s ability to block or amend unfunded and curricular mandates introduced each legislative session.

What has IPAC accomplished? The dollars have been integral to the success of Vision 20/20, the passage of Evidence-Based Funding and other key legisla tive victories that have improved public education in Illinois. Your contributions also help block or amend short-sighted legislation that has unintended consequences on student learning. How much are IPAC Annual Contributions? Our goal is to have every IASA member support IPAC. Annual contributions are $100. How is your contribution spent? IPAC contributions position IASA to have legislative success. The funds are used to make strategic campaign contributions and pay costs associated with attending legislative outings and events. Attending these events increases our face-to-face time with legislators, enhancing our advocacy efforts.

Scan QR code (or click here) to contribute to IPAC today: to contribute to IPAC today:

Questions? Contact Ashleigh Knudson at 217–753–2213 or aknudson@iasaedu.org.

A copy of our report is filed with the State Board of Elections and is or will be available for purchase from the State Board of Elections, Springfield, Illinois 62704. Contributions to IPAC are not deductible as charitable or political contributions for federal income tax purposes.

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We’re here today to chart a course for the future.

Vision 2030 is the second time IASA has fostered collaboration and unity among education organizations across the state to create an advocacy framework for public education in Illinois. The first initiative, Vision 2020, resulted in numerous achievements, including the passage of the Evidence-Based Funding Formula and Illinois Balanced Accountability Model.

Vision 2030 .. cont’d.

guide committee work at subsequent meetings and focus policy development. Dr. John Gatta, CEO of the ECRA Group, said the facilitators try to make sure each Workgroup is having the right conversations, which will allow them to uncover the right policies to create the final policy brief. Other issues discussed include the need to create more post-secondary options for students; the attractiveness of teaching as a profession; creating an assessment system that is a timely and reflective measure of student performance and growth over time; and funding for capital and student safety needs. Similarly to Vision 2020, local school boards will once again be asked to pass resolutions in support, which will increase the visibility and profile of the policies and initiatives of Vision 2030 so the Illinois General Assembly and Governor will take note and consider making changes that will result in an education system that better meets the needs of all students. “We’re going to create a groundswell of activity that the Illinois General Assembly and policymakers cannot ignore,” Dr. Gatta said. “From this moment on, all of you are ambassadors for this initiative.”

To learn more about Vision 2020, listen to the latest IASA Podcast. Or, read the Vision 2020 Final Report.

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59TH ANNUAL

September, 2023 CONFERENCE

THREE DAYS TO REMEMBER: IASA’S IASA experienced record-breaking attendance numbers at the 59th Annual Conference, held September 27–29 in Springfield. More than 600 educators attended the three-day event. This year’s lineup of keynote speakers were all educators who shared unique perspectives

designed to help attendees lead with intention and meet the ever-changing needs of education. The Opening General Session on Wednesday was highlighted by Dr. Jill Siler, Deputy Executive Director for Professional Learning, General Session featured Dr. Gene Kerns, Chief Academic Officer at Renaissance, and Adam Welcome, a former teacher, principal and best-selling author. Thursday also featured presentations from Illinois superintendents and State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders. The 59th Annual Conference concluded with a powerful message from Merlyna Valentine. Texas Association of School Administrators. The Second

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Early Birds President’s Reception S 59TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Networking

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We welcomed Ignite presenters to the stage during the Third General Session. Ignite includes a series of 3rd General Session

presenters giving 5-minute presentations on a variety of topics using 15–20 slides. The line-up for this year’s Ignite session was wide-ranging and impressive. From top left: • Dr. Brian Mentzer, Superintendent of Belleville Twp HSD #201—“Cave Exploration” • Dr. Kevin Skinkis, Superintendent of Riverside-Brookfield Twp HSD #208—“Strengthening Instructional Culture and Practice Through Peer Evaluation” • Dr. Tiffany Brunson, Superintendent of ESD #159 in Matteson—“Curb Cut Effect” • Larry Maynard, Superintendent of Oakwood CUSD #76—“Aspiring Substitute Teacher Academy” • Dr. Jesse Rodriguez, Superintendent of Zion-Benton Twp HSD #126—“Intentional Leadership Ignites Ideas” • Kathy Clark, Superintendent of Johnston City CUSD #1—“Targeted, Tired, and Tormented” • Dr. Bob McBride, Superintendent of Lockport Twp HSD #205—“Taylor Swift Will Make You a Better Leader”

4th General Session IASA Member Showcase: Real People, Real Talk

The Fourth General Session featured three emotional and inspirational messages from IASA members. Dr. PJ Caposey kicked the session off by discussing his battle with cancer and challenges early in his career. Chuck Schneider shared a heart-wrenching story about his struggle with mental health and Dr. Keely Roberts delivered an incredibly emotional story about the trauma her family suffered in the mass shooting in Highland Park.

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Legacy The IASA Annual Conference would not be possible without the generous support of our School Service Members. On behalf of the entire IASA community, it is with sincere gratitude that we acknowledge our 2023 IASA Annual Conference supporters: Thank You

Premier

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See You Next Year! September 25–27 2024

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Feedback From Participants

restrictions requisites licensure RISK MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATIONS audits reports ISBE Systems

Q

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employment

regulations

grants

Spots Are Still Available for Compliance Plus The pilot program is designed to save districts time and navigate ISBE and ROE compliance more efficiently. The following conversation is with two superintendents participating in Compliance Plus. In addition, Robert Wolfe, program facilitator, shares how he’s helped districts with everything from transportation to indirect costs. Click here to complete the Interest Form.

How can IASA Compliance Plus help school districts with transportation reimbursement claims?

Q

Andy Johnson Superintendent Effingham CUSD #40

Robert Wolfe Facilitator Compliance Plus

Robert : One of the things I did was a variance analysis of Compliance Plus members transportation claims and identified potential errors. I worked with a number of districts and revised their claim data so they can submit an accurate claim for transportation reimbursement and not be at risk of a future adjustment as a result of an ISBE audit. I will tell you we’ve had some claims where there have been substantial changes in the data. It’s very important that the data is correct and you don’t receive an audit adjustment on a future claim and your reimbursement is reduced substantially.

Cheryl Graff Facilitator Compliance Plus

Jeff Abell Superintendent Griggsville-Perry CUSD #4

The interview is condensed and edited for clarity. Click here to listen to the full interview on the IASA Podcast.

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Also, we send out notices about programs that are frozen in FRIS for various reasons. We try to provide the superintendents a list of what has been submitted and what has not, so they can follow up with their team to make sure that those expenditure reports are submitted, and the money keeps flowing with the district. What’s nice is both Cheryl and I are not really limited on some of the issues. I just recently assisted a school district with what the requirements are for submitting bids and how they went out for bus bids. I provided some connections and some research for that. I really believe a lot of the value add that Cheryl and I can bring to it is that we will take the time and do the research that superintendents may not have the time to. Q How have Cheryl and Robert assisted your district? Andy: We’re trying to streamline multiple processes. One is data at our high school. We’ve worked with Cheryl, and continue to do so, trying to figure out where some of this data is coming from and making

Q What would you say to districts on the fence about joining IASA Compliance Plus? of those reports. They have helped me better understand what ISBE is asking for. It was taking me a long time to research it. They could just tell me what I needed right away. They’ve just made me much more efficient. Andy: Since August, I’ve probably had correspondence with Robert or Cheryl on at least 15 to 20 matters. When you ask me what all we’ve dealt with, some of the things that come to mind are indirect costs. Robert walked me through Jeff: Compliance Plus has really supported me as a second year superintendent. There’s a lot to learn and year one was pretty difficult. One thing for sure is IASA has the Task Planner, but districts participating in Compliance Plus get a more detailed planner that breaks things down more with due dates and explanations about compliance-related matters. With things like expenditure reports and site-based expenditures, I had some catch up to do. I’ve been working with Cheryl and Robert closely on some

s

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sure our people understand what needs to be provided. My interactions with Robert have been incredible. Every time I’ve asked for something, he has responded. We’ve had phone conversations in regard to any and all requests that I’ve had. We’ve had grant questions, transportation report questions and pretty much run the gamut on everything ISBE related.

some information about indirect costs, which we don’t utilize and that I did not fully understand. I’m not going to lie to you, I don’t think a lot of people probably do. We’ve talked a lot about nutrition grants. We’ve talked a lot about Evidence-Based Funding. Just about anything compliance wise. I think one of our grade school principals was having some concerns about a discrepancy with her class size data.

The magnitude of what we’ve been able to utilize with Cheryl and Robert has really been a game changer.

My brother is a superintendent, and I’ve tried to tell him at least three times so far this year that, for $5,200, you need to tie in with Robert Wolfe and Cheryl Graff for all things ISBE data. Period. I guess I would finish by just saying the piece that I struggle to understand is why people wouldn’t spend $5,200 when the magnitude of what we’ve been able to utilize, with both Cheryl and Robert, has really been a game changer. They’re helping us to better understand the pieces and the parts behind the emails that seem to come every week from the Illinois State Board of Education requesting something. We have a Compliance Document that they are working on with

Q

What other ways has IASA Compliance Plus assisted your district? Chelle Beck, Curriculum Director at Effingham CUSD #40: ISBE collects a lot of data from school districts that lands in the Illinois School Report Card. A lot of times we have questions about why that particular metric looks the way it does. It sometimes doesn’t match with our internal calculations. It’s been really beneficial to partner with Cheryl and have her actually walk us through some of the metrics. Sometimes we don’t know how that checkbox is impacting the data that, months later, is public facing. It’s saved us a lot of time and has been really helpful.

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IASA’s Senate Bill 7 Performance Rankings Tool improves efficiency in your district by generating reports needed to comply with Senate Bill 7 and other related laws, freeing you up to focus your time and energy more on supporting your students and staff. The program provides districts a method of managing district positions aligned to local qualifications, teacher’s credentials and performance ratings. It’s proven, affordable and used by districts across the state. Senate Bill 7 Compliance Made Easy 2023–2024 Software Now Available for Purchase

What’s new? The 2023–24 file has been enhanced in response to user ideas and is ready for you to purchase and download. Updates include: • Teacher race column added with teacher data and the Sequence of Honorable Dismissal. • Added columns for storing another cycle of evaluations. • Enhanced cues on Data Check Worksheet. • Data Transfer Support from previous files. • Updated SB 7 website with new Support Request form. • Password reset available.

Affordable The annual licensing fee is $300 for members and $600 for non-members. Find the access request form at: http://www.iasasurveys.org

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Please note that previous versions of the IASA Senate Bill 7 Performance Rankings File are no longer supported. Also, the service method for the 2023–2024 software will be via email only.

This software was originally reviewed by the Senate Bill 7 teams from the Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) and the Illinois Education Association (IEA). The 2023–2024 version of this software builds on the knowledge gained from hundreds of users.

Compliance Plus ... cont’d.

us to compile all things with dates and who in our district is going to be responsible for that particular item. We didn’t have a system in place that said this person takes care of this, so I had to constantly reach out to people. I think, from an organization standpoint, it’s going to help us a lot as we progress through the rest of this year.

comprehensive list put out. We’ve provided it to members of Compliance Plus and also offered to provide any customization for any individual district, so they can use it and import it into Google Docs at the central office. It helps them keep track of all compliance issues and when they are due. It also gives the superintendent the ability to look to see what tasks were completed, so they don’t have to send emails to staff checking on those matters.

Robert: Indirect costs is a tool that is utilized in ISBE grants as well as both the state and the federal grants. It can also be utilized in the nutrition program. I will soon be doing a webinar with Compliance Plus-member districts to provide information on what indirect costs are and how the school district can effectively use those. I think there are very few districts in the state that utilize indirect costs. One of the things I’ve identified with speaking to some superintendents, it’s a lack of awareness of what they are and how they can be used effectively. Q Can you explain what indirect costs are?

Q

Any final thoughts?

Jeff: They just have a lot of answers and have saved me a lot of time. With how quickly things change, I think people who have been a superintendent for a while could still really benefit from this service.

Is Compliance Plus for your district? First, consult with your Board of Education to gauge interest. Second, complete the online form on our IASA website. Please note filling out the form does not lock your district into participation. IASA will follow up for confirmation and send an invoice at a later date.

Compliance Plus districts receive a more detailed task planner. Can you discuss what that resource looks like? Robert: Cheryl and I collaborated and put together a very comprehensive task calendar. It covers all 12 months and includes finance-related issues like submission of the AFR to the ROE by Oct. 15, when the budget is due, tax levy as well as all of the ISBE data collections. In the work we did in August, Cheryl and I had to go to multiple sources of information to get this

Q

Complete CompliancePLUS interest form.

Questions? Contact Jason Nevel at jnevel@iasaedu.org or call 217–753–2213

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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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. Dr. Kevin Suchinski Hillside SD #93 Dr. Rachel Savage Moline-Coal Valley CUSD #40

Who: Dr. Kevin Suchinski, superintendent What: Expanded partnerships with community providers to offer increased mental fitness and self-care services for students; Partnered with DREAM Academy; Member of West Suburban Consortium for Academic Excellence; Member of Cook County Department of Public Health School Committee

Who: Dr. Rachel Savage, superintendent What: Leveraged federal recovery dollars to hire 30 additional teachers in the 2021-22 school year on a two-year contract that has resulted in academic growth and insulated the district from the teacher shortage; Reimagined alternative school for high school students; Partnered with community organizations to offer better supports for students; Co

Chair of Vision 2030 Workgroup; IASA Women in Leadership; IASA-ISBE Advisory Committee. Where: Moline-Coal Valley CUSD #40, Blackhawk When: Superintendent of Moline-Coal Valley CUSD #40 since 2019 Why: At the start of the pandemic-ridden 2021-22 school year, Moline-Coal Valley CUSD #40 welcomed 30 new teachers to its staff. While the teachers were full-time employees, there was a twist. Each was hired to a two-year contract that was primarily funded by an influx of federal pandemic-relief dollars Moline-Coal Valley CUSD #40 received. Two school years later, the gamble has paid off. Moline-Coal Valley CUSD #40 is experiencing academic growth and has insulated itself from the national teacher shortage. “I know that many districts were not using those dollars on human resources because it was not sustainable,” Dr. Savage

Where: Hillside SD #93, Cook West When: Superintendent of Hillside SD #93 since 2015 Why: Building partnerships with community providers to better support students and take some of the burden off teachers has been a major focus for Hillside SD #93 this school year. “Our teachers have been incredible the last three years, but they are definitely stretched thin,” Dr Kevin Suchinski said. “We’ve been trying to look at how we can provide our teachers with additional support by partnering with community providers to take a closer look at societal problems, such as mental health, internet connectivity and any other issues outside of our doors that students are dealing with. It’s important to look at all avenues to support our students’ well-being.” Hillside SD #93 has partnered with Zebra Telehealth to offer free counseling services for students and staff. The

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Education Elevat g

Suchinski ... cont’d. partnership offers students a 50-minute weekly check-in with a trained therapist, regardless of their parents’ insurance coverage or ability to pay. School social workers help identify students who would benefit from the additional support. The elementary district in Chicago’s west suburbs has also partnered with The Dream Academy to offer an innovative after school and mentoring program. Furthermore, Hillside SD #93 conducts an SEL screener three times per year with students and utilizes a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), which provides a comprehensive system where students are encouraged to ask for help and then receive the support they need to build their mental fitness. Moving forward, Hillside SD #93 wants to continue to build on its mental health support system by partnering with the Proviso Public Partnership non-profit, which will allow the district to have a medical clinician on site. “We want to take away the stigma and remove any barriers for our students to receive mental health services,” Dr. Suchinski said. Hillside SD #93 has also partnered with local health officials and city officials in the communities of Hillside, Berkeley and Westchester to offer mobile immunization and vaccine clinics as well as services like expanded after-school programming. The district is a member of the West Suburban Consortium for Academic Excellence. Leaders in the consortium of 14 school districts come together to celebrate student successes and provide different opportunities such as civic action opportunities, leadership conferences and an art expo. “These programs allow kids to interface outside of the Proviso area and build connections with other students and offer equitable opportunities outside of Hillside School that will help them grow,” Dr. Suchinski said. Dr. Suchinski is also a member of the Cook County Department of Public Health School Committee. The group looks at various ways to leverage county resources to tackle problems in schools and provide much needed countywide resources for schools. “We’re able to interface together to discuss issues and also have the opportunity to leverage grant opportunities that we might not have known were out there,” Dr. Suchinski said. “It’s another way to collaborate and cultivate partnerships that will help our students.”

Savage ... cont’d.

said. “We felt strongly that what kids needed most was a certified teacher. We worked with our union, not knowing if anyone would bite. Thankfully they did, and we’re incredibly grateful we made that decision to invest in people.” Moline-Coal Valley CUSD #40 was able to lower classroom sizes and offer more personalized instruction. The educators also acted as co-teachers, assisted with assessments and provided academic interventions and support for students. “We offered more one-on-one learning and could meet kids where they are,” Dr. Savage said. “We’re very proud of the academic recovery process and the positive results we’ve seen. It was a collective effort made possible by a positive relationship with our bargaining groups.” In addition to aiding with academic support, Moline-Coal Valley CUSD #40 has insulted itself from the national teacher shortage. When teachers have retired or left the district, the district has replaced them with educators from the pool of 30. “It’s been such a positive experience because many from that group were brand new teachers out of college. They received on-the-job training and now come in much more polished, prepared and confident than someone might be out of the gate,” Dr. Savage said. Moline-Coal Valley CUSD #40 has also experienced positive results from its decision to move its alternative school back under one roof at Moline High School. Students in the alternative program now have access to the district’s full suite of social workers, counselors, nurses as well as elective courses and the career pathways program. “We tried to think outside the box and provide a smaller and more therapeutic environment for these students,” Dr. Savage said. “We’re seeing great results and have had more students in the alternative program graduate than ever before.” Outside of Moline-Coal Valley CUSD #40, Dr. Savage serves as co-chair of the Vision 2030 Student Success Workgroup. She will also be a panelist at the Women in Leadership event at the Joint Annual Conference this year and is a member of the IASA-ISBE Advisory Committee.

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Jason Grey superintendent Riley CCSD #18

Building a Support Network in the Superintendency When we were hired to be superintendents of our respective school districts five years ago, we were brimming with excitement and ready to embrace our new role as school leaders. Our respective school boards put their faith in us that we were the right people to lead our districts forward. However, within weeks, each of us realized the role of superintendent was more complex than we imagined, especially in smaller districts where you’re also asked to be the lead person on finance, curriculum and human resources matters. By the time we arrived in Springfield for the IASA New Superintendent’s Conference, we had the mindset that, in order to learn on the job and survive, we needed to build a support network. IASA’s New Superintendent Conference provided that opportunity. We were seated next to each other, struck up a conversation and quickly learned we had a lot in common. Our districts were nearby in the Northwest regions and served students from similar backgrounds. The seeds of network building were planted that day and have continued to grow ever since. That’s the origin of why we recently presented together on this topic in a

Dr. Alex Kashner superintendent Eastland CUSD #308

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breakout session at the IASA Annual Conference. Our hope is that all of our colleagues can have success in one of the hardest, but also the most rewarding, jobs in the world by building a support network. Without that, a superintendent’s job can feel isolating as there is no one else in our organization that holds the same position. This can lead to loneliness and frustration, if you let it. Building a support network is essential to success in our jobs. Recent statistics show that 95 percent of superintendents report that our job has become harder, and 15 percent of superintendents plan to leave the position altogether. Now, more than ever, we need to reach out and support each other. To help our peers achieve success, we have compiled a list of reasons for networking and steps to help you build a support network.

Promotes growth

Strengthens your support network

Why Networking Is So Important:

Builds your reputation

Allows you to meet other leaders

Makes you noticeable

5 Steps To Help Build a Support Network: 1 step 2 step

3 step

4 step

5 step

Ask for Help

This Is a Job, Not an Identity

Attend Meetings

Network with Other Superintendents We are all colleagues Join a support network: Support networks need to be an organization where ideas and issues are heard, not judged or shared Phone calls/weekly check-ins Regional and state Zoom meetings Social media

Build a Professional Network

IASA events Division meetings and dinners Conferences (IASA & Triple I) Mentoring meetings Regional Office of Education meetings

Identify your purpose Diversify your network Use online platforms Attend events and workshops

It is a hard job, allow others to assist you It can be a lonely position, but only if we allow it. Don’t allow yourself to be trapped Reach out to other superintendents with questions and issues Utilize the IASA

This is what I do... not who I am

Find outlets that provide opportunities to enjoy life Be firm on work boundaries and share these boundaries with your Board of Education and respect those boundaries with your BOE Get away from the job, and make time for yourself

Now more than ever we need to support each other in our profession. This job is hard, but not impossible with the right support.

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Professional Development

Dr. Courtney Orzel IASA Associate Director of Professional Development

IASA is excited to once again sponsor a series of sessions at the Joint Annual Conference in Chicago, November 17-19! We get things started on Friday, Nov. 17 with a Celebrate Women in Leadership event that begins at 8:30 a.m. Please join us for an incredible morning of reflection, support and encouragement by pre-registering. This is a free event for female leaders in Illinois, but you must be pre-registered to attend. Following Women in Leadership, IASA is sponsoring seven sessions in the Hyatt East and West Towers. Sessions this year are: • What Your Superintendent Wants to Tell You, But Can’t • PK-12 Economics & Policy in Springfield

• Current Trends in Collective Bargaining & Contract Management • Facing Implicit Bias and Micro-Aggressions Head On! • Superintendent Employment Contracts • Setting Up Your Next Superintendent For Success • Relationship Centered BOE Leadership: Telling your district’s story with a focus on people, passion and purpose. More information about times, locations and session de scriptions will be shared at a later date closer to the event. If you haven’t already, celebrate 90 years of leadership and learning with school leaders from throughout Illinois at the 2023 Joint Annual Conference.

Sign up for Women in Leadership Event at the Joint Annual Conference

PANELISTS:

Dr. Shelia Boozer

Lucilla Davila

Dr. Minerva Garcia-Sanchez

Dr. Lisa Leali

Dr. Kimako Patterson

Lindsay Robinson

Dr. Rachel Savage

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PERA, Evaluations and SB7/RIF: Putting It All Together

cycle including the PERA Joint Committee, the SB7/ RIF Committee and the timelines in which each of these committees must complete their work. Upcoming dates: Oct. 30 and Nov. 2.

The evaluation, retention and dismissal of your staff is really a series of interconnected steps that create a cycle that must be followed each year. This workshop is designed for early career Superintendents and other administrators who would benefit from a practical, immediately useful refresher course on this essential topic. Information will be shared on each step of the

info•register

Bonds 101 will provide early-career superintendents an overview of the various short-term and long-term finance options available to school districts. Presented by: Dr. Gary

Kelly, IASA Field Services Director; Tom Crabtree, Managing Director at Stifel. Upcoming Dates: Nov. 14. 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 2024 beginning in July. All sessions will be held virtually. info•register

Leadership Strand Adaptive Leadership: Dealing With Change AA 1825

There are always new practices and strategies being discovered that will enable students to be more engaged and to learn better. However, teachers are not necessarily quick to change their practices. How do we, as administrators, challenge and encourage teachers to be open-minded to new practices and strategies for learning?

This IASA Academy led by Dr. Gary Zabilka will help leaders think more clearly and execute better in a shifting environment. Upcoming dates: Dec. 5 and March 7. info•register

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The Power of Positive Leadership AA 3730 The research is clear. Being a positive leader is not just a nice way to lead. It’s the way to lead if you want to build a great culture, unite your organization in the face of adversity, develop a connected and committed team and achieve superior goals. This IASA workshop is designed to provide you with actionable strategies to create a culture of trust, empowering you to lead with authenticity and ignite a sense of purpose within your team. Upcoming dates: Feb. 2, April 4 and June 18. info•register Leadership Strand Investing in your team’s success and well-being is a game-changer for your organization’s growth. Register now for this IASA workshop based on the proven principles of Jon Gordon’s best-selling book, The Power of Positive Teams (POPT). Participants will learn proven strategies and practices to help build a stronger, more united, and connected team. Upcoming dates: Jan. 12 and March 8. info•register The Power of Positive Teams AA 3927 Leadership Strand

Leadership Strand Why Your Why Matters AA 1445

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

reflect on why being an educator is the most important profession on Earth! Upcoming dates: Jan. 10 and June 13.

info•register

This academy will guide Administrators and district personnel through a working session and in-depth overview of the topics and processes related to meeting School Code Compliance requirements through ISBE, ROEs, and ISCs. Upcoming dates: Jan. 11. info•register

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Leadership Strand Leadership Requirements for Moving From Good to Great AA 481

Some schools and school districts are good; some are great. What is the difference and what does it take to move an institution from good to great? The focus of this course is on leadership and behavioral

characteristics that enable leaders to identify and accomplish their goals of moving from Good to Great. Upcoming dates: Jan. 11 and April 11.

info•register

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

to face unique challenges. This newly updated IASA academy is intended to help women leaders confront fears, boost confidence and forge a support network that will help you thrive in your leadership role. Even if you’ve taken this academy before, join us again for

new research on Women in the Workplace as well as other new resources, activities and connections for 2023–24. Up coming dates: Feb. 27 and June 17

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: Feb. 8 and Feb. 15. info•register

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

Professional Development The purpose of this academy is to provide administrators and other school personnel with an in-depth look at, and discovery into, topics related to Health Life Safety and Compliance. Uniquely, the presenters provide both perspectives on the issue: Ralph Grimm presents the school superintendent’s

view, and Pat Durley, the regional superintendents. Upcoming dates: March 7 and May 30.

info•register

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

SEARCH | FILTER | POST | SEE ALERTS | MANAGE YOUR PROFILE AND DOCUMENTS | VIEW HISTORY

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

illinoiseducationjobbank.org

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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: April 8 info•register

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

There is no such thing as the BEST version of yourself, there is only the NEXT version of yourself. You have to be driven deeply by something, believe that you have a legacy to leave and admit you are unfinished. This IASA Academy led by Dr. Michael

Lubelfeld and Dr. Nick Polyak serves as a guidepost to help leaders understand that we are all works in progress. Upcoming dates: April 18. info•register

FREE MONTHLY WEBINAR SERIES FOR MEMBERS

School Safety and Literacy IASA is turning the spotlight on school safety and literacy throughout the 2023–24 school year. Join us for these two free webinars presented in collaboration with IASA Corporate Partners. Funding Through Risk Management and Mitigation Oct. 30 at 10 a.m. Presented by Nov. 9 at 9 a.m. Presented by Dr. Kerns message prompted many positive discussions and changes in our district’s approach to utilizing data and teaching the Common Core Standards. The extensive research that the Focus Skills: A Roadmap for Closing Learning Gaps

Special Guest: Janice Pavelonis, superintendent of Carbondale ESD #95 Learn how incorporating Renaissance Focus Skills can help your district move every student toward greater mastery.

Renaissance team has conducted and shared allowed our district leaders to shift our focus on guiding our teaching staff to align instruction with the Focus Standards. —Dr. John Palan, superintendent Grant Park CUSD #6

The session will explore innovative ways to secure funding for safety and security systems within your schools. info•register

info•register

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EBF Making a Difference Revisiting the Series Click here to read past stories

IASA is taking a different approach to Making a Difference this month. Instead of telling the story of two school districts, we want to share a recent report by S&P Global about Evidence-Based Funding and the impact it has had on school districts’ credit ratings. This report is intended for S&P subscribers and therefore cannot be shared broadly. The following is a summary of the report. Illinois’ Evidence-Based Funding Has Improved School Districts’ Credit Quality And Stability Key Takeaways:

• Since EBF’s enactment six years ago, rating trends have shifted markedly, with twice as many upgrades as downgrades for Illinois school districts. • Cuts to state funding are still possible should the state’s recent trend of financial improvement reverse, which would reintroduce uncertainty and potential budgetary pressure for districts.

• Illinois’ funding of K-12 education has increased substantially since the 2017 enactment of the Evidence-Based Funding (EBF) formula, supporting higher credit quality for Illinois school districts that have prudently managed these additional funds following years of stagnant and prorated state aid under the prior funding mechanism, General State Aid (GSA). • EBF’s hold-harmless provision lends greater stability to budgeting as it means enrollment declines should no longer result in reduced state aid.

History of Illinois School District Rating Changes

Upgrade Downgrade

FY 2018–24

Ratings changes (no.)

Fiscal year end, 06/30

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Gain insights from school attorneys at virtual workshops

Legal Workshops

Zoom Webinars Free to IASA members

Don’t forget IASA’s Legal Workshop series continues this fall with another round of sessions featuring experienced school attorneys! These free legal workshops are the perfect opportunity to gain insights and ask questions. See the list of law firms, dates and session titles below. If there are any additional topics you would like to see covered, do not hesitate to contact Chad Watkins, IASA General Counsel. We hope you can join us online and get advice from experienced school attorneys on complex legal issues.

November 14, 2023 • 10 a.m.–Noon

November 7, 2023 • 10 a.m.–Noon

December 6, 2023 • 10 a.m.–Noon

Addressing Teacher Tenure Acquistion, Evaluation, and Discipline in Light of New Laws Attorney: David Braun

Let the Sunshine In: A FOIA Primer Attorney: Maureen Lemon

Title IX Attorney: Kaitlin Atlas

Register Here

Register Here

Register Here

December 11, 2023 • 10 a.m.–Noon

December 12, 2023 • 10 a.m.–Noon

Bullying: What’s New and What to Do Attorney: Courtney Stillman

Superintendent Contract Renewals Attorney: Chad Watkins

Register Here

Register Here

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News In Brief

ISBE Requests Feedback on Second Draft of Comprehensive Literacy Plan The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) today unveiled the second draft of the Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan, which provides a roadmap designed to guide and unify literacy efforts across the state. ISBE is asking the public to submit feedback on the plan through the public comment form on the ISBE website or at one of six listening tour stops across the state. The Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan charts a course toward developmentally appropriate, evidence-based literacy instruction for all students. The updated draft plan incorporates feedback received on the first draft from more than 500 individuals through six listening tour sessions, 20 focus groups, and an online public comment form. Registration for the listening tour is available online . The Federal Communications Commission, by a 3-2 vote, approved an expansion of the E-rate program to support Wi-Fi on school buses. Federal support for school bus Wi-Fi will help address inequities for students who lack internet access at home, particularly those who live in rural, tribal or high-poverty neighborhoods, according to the commissioners who supported the measure. The two who voted against it cited concerns over limited evidence showing that the expansion would support students’ academic success. They also said expanding E-rate to include school bus connectivity might be illegal since the law establishing the program funds connectivity for classrooms and libraries. Click here to read more. FCC expands E-Rate to Cover School Bus Wi-Fi

USDA Farm to Schools Grants The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the official release of the fiscal year 2024 Farm to School Grant Program Request for Applications (RFA). The USDA will award up to $12 million in competitive grants to eligible entities through the grant program this fiscal year. Each grant will help implement farm to school programming that increases access to local food in eligible schools, connects children with agriculture for better health, and inspires youth to consider careers in agriculture. A wide variety of entities are eligible to compete for funding through this grant opportunity, including schools and other institutions operating the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Child and Adult Care Food Program, and/or Summer Food Service Program. The USDA will host two webinars to assist with the application process. Click the links to register: Nov. 1 | 2 p.m. | Getting Familiar With the FY 2024 Farm to School RFA Nov. 2 | 1 p.m. | Getting Your Grant Package Together

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

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