LM Oct 2025

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Discover how Canton Union SD #66 leveraged Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to foster innovation and drive meaningful school improvement. This session will explore how collaborative teams used data-driven decision-making, targeted instructional strategies, and continuous reflection to enhance student outcomes. Participants will gain insights into successful PLC structures, real-world examples of impactful change, and practical strategies to implement in their own schools. Join us to learn how PLCs can be a powerful tool for creating a culture of continuous growth and innovation. Presenters: Tad DeRenzy, Superintendent; Julie Tarvin, Assistant Superintendent — Canton Union SD #66 1 To drive the work of developing PLCs, the district needed to make fundamental structural changes. Canton Union SD #66 built time in its schedule for 25 minutes daily for teacher collaboration across all buildings 2 Canton Union SD #66 leveraged outside expertise to build leadership capacity. The district partnered with Solution Tree and coaches spent one week onsite and observed teams, meetings and learning in action. The coaches met with principals for one month after the visit and delivered a comprehensive analysis. That process led to the creation of specific goals and action plans to move the work forward. 3 The district developed Four Pillars of Student Success: Collaboration, Problem Solving, Creative Thinking and Innovation. The district’s new mission and vision includes Lego education, Makerspace Spaces, Imagination Station and Project Lead the Way. Innovate to Elevate: Driving School Improvement Through Creative Solutions

Leadership Impact on Teacher Retention

Effective leadership is crucial for fostering supportive school environments, and its impact on teacher retention cannot be overstated. This session explores the direct correlation between leadership styles and teacher well-being, job satisfaction, and ultimately, decisions to remain in the profession. Learn actionable strategies for cultivating positive school culture, reducing teacher turnover, and building a stable, highly effective teaching staff through supportive leadership practices. Presenters: Dr. Adam Cross, Superintendent of Bluford Unit School District #318; Dr. Gary Kelly, Assistant Professor of Practice at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and IASA Field Services Director 1 Assess your Organizational Culture - This is your organi zation’s beliefs, values, and expectations that create your school environment. Check the vital signs of your school and know where you are, where you want to be, and how you are going to get there. Through this assessment, school leaders can start building and creating a culture of success for students/staff. Start with students in mind for every decision and path forward. 2 Be Adaptive - There are many leadership styles that are effective, such as being a relational or servant leader, but ultimately, leaders have to resemble a chameleon and be adaptive/flexible to the many situations we are challenged each day. One approach/style is not always effective for each situation or stakeholder. 3 Be the Leader You Needed as a Teacher - Always remember where your journey started and help your teachers and staff by providing collaboration, support, respect, and effective communication. Build authentic relationships with your stakeholders and be intentional about the work you do every day. Teachers need quality leadership just as we need quality teachers.

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7 LM October 2025