LM Sept 2021

Message From the Executive Director IASA’s 57th Annual Conference Is Perfect Time to Hit the Reset Button

Dr. Brent Clark

We couldn’t have picked a better theme for IASA’s 57th Annual Conference than “Refresh, Recharge and Revitalize.” The first month of the school year has felt like a football drill where superintendents are constantly running through a tunnel of people taking turns pummeling you. Instead of focusing on new learning initiatives, superintendents are grappling with COVID-19 testing delays and shortages. Instead of strategic planning, superintendents are scrambling to find enough full-time and substitute teachers to cover classrooms or enough bus drivers to transport students to and from school. Instead of developing strategies to improve climate and culture, superintendents continuously worry about contact tracing, close contacts and following exclusion protocols. The hits just keep coming. It’s time to hit the reset button. I hope you can join us in Springfield Sept. 29–Oct. 1 for an opportunity to break away and connect with the only people who have walked in your shoes for three inspiring days of professional development. I am especially excited we built Supt2Supt into this year’s schedule. The session is the perfect opportunity to gather in small groups, discuss timely topics and share strategies and ideas. We have learned over the past 18 months that superintendents cannot face the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic alone. It’s critical to have a support network that can lift you up and help you push through intensely difficult challenges. There is no better place to grow your circle than at IASA’s 57th Annual Conference.

Of course, the annual conference will feature dynamic keynote speakers, engaging breakout sessions and other opportunities to network and grow your leadership capacity. Our keynote speakers, Morris Morrison and Hamish Brewer, are both electric presenters who will challenge you to become stronger leaders and rethink your practices. We will also feature numerous talented Illinois superintendents on the main stage via Ignite and in our Closing General Session. Special thanks to Dr. Donna Leak, Dr. David Mouser and Dr. Darcy Benway for their willingness to share lessons from the field, as well as all of our presenters. If you haven’t already registered, consider signing up today. The annual conference truly is the perfect opportunity to “Refresh, Recharge and Revitalize.” To close, I want to remind each of you to take care of yourself, continue to be as transparent as possible, focus on what you can control and always try to put students first. And, if you need additional help, don’t hesitate to contact me or the IASA staff. We are committed to supporting you. Lastly, I want to remind you counseling services are available to IASA Active members via a private provider, ComPsych ® . Information about how to access the service was emailed to active members and can be resent upon request. I look forward to seeing you in Springfield!

3 LM September 2021