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September 2023 Leadership Matters

September 27–29, 2023 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield—A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel 59TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Opening Session Wednesday

Second Session Thursday Morning

Third Session Thursday

• Plus • Dr. Tony Sanders

Dr. Jill Siler

Adam Welcome and Dr. Gene Kerns

Fourth Session Thursday IASA Member Showcase: Real People, Real Talk

Closing Session Friday Merlyna Valentine

Dr. PJ Caposey

Dr. Keely Roberts

Chuck Schneider

see pages 5–17 for full conference lineup

5 Things to Know About the Conference ... details page 11 Early Bird Academies ... details page 13 Pre-Conference Sessions ... details page 14 Breakout Sessions ... details page 15 Receptions ... details page 17

register here!

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Immerse yourself in an environment that fosters inspiration and sparks innovation in education at IASA’s Annual Conference! The three-day event offers Illinois school administrators a unique networking platform to forge collaborations that can enhance your professional growth. IASA 59TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Education Elevat g

Elevating Education: Dr. Darren Root and Dr. Mary Ticknor

SAFE Board Accepting Apps for Moon Scholarships

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Your Health Matters

22 Rural Leadership Cohort Kicks Off in Bunker Hill

IASA PD Opportunities

IASA News in Brief

EBF

31 EBF Making A Difference Returns

Videos From the Districts

Volume 11, Issue 8 September 2023 Leadership Matters 23223

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 Connect With Your Peers and Learn Top Practices at IASA Annual Conference

Dr. Brent Clark

This conference was exactly the refresh I needed to regain positivity to lead my district.

If you haven’t already, consider registering for this year’s conference. I understand it can be difficult to break away, but I’ve heard from countless superintendents over the years who discovered that missing ingredient to push their district to the next level while in Springfield. You simply can’t connect with other superintendents, learn about top practices in the state and gain new perspectives on leadership while at home in your district. As I wrote last month, IASA plans to prioritize school safety and literacy during the 2023–24 school year. Our plan is to offer a free webinar each month, beginning in October, on specific issues within those two areas of focus. Even if you can’t make the webinar yourself, feel free to share the information with members of your staff. Our goal for each webinar is to pair industry experts with school administrators in the field to offer you different perspectives. Be on the lookout for an email in October with details and registration information. To close, I’m pleased to hear positive reports throughout the state on a great start to the school year. Every superintendent recognizes how pivotal this year is with the need to accelerate student learning, provide additional social-emotional supports for students and adjust to life without an influx of federal funds. As always, IASA will be with you each step of the way as you lead with intention and continue to put the interest of students first. Hope to see you in Springfield, Sept. 27–29.

Feedback like that is what makes planning and organizing IASA’s Annual Conference extra special. Our goal every year is to make sure each attendee leaves feeling more connected with their peers, their batteries are recharged and that they have learned about an innovative program or initiative that they can take back to their district. This year’s lineup is well suited to meet that goal. Our keynote speakers all have inspiring messages, but also education backgrounds that provide them with a unique understanding of the day-to-day challenges school administrators face. We also were very deliberate in selecting a diverse set of breakout sessions that serve the needs of superintendents in urban, suburban and rural settings as well as elementary, unit and high school districts. Check out pages 5–17 and familiarize yourself with this year’s schedule and be sure to download the IASA Annual Conference App. The App makes it easy to view the list of breakout sessions, learn about speakers, see the list of exhibitors and sponsors and get updates about any cancellations or important notifications. The App can be downloaded by scanning the QR Code on page 8.

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2024–2025 Moon Scholarship Program Are you a superintendent or an aspiring superintendent? Are you pursuing graduate study to become the best superintendent you can be?

Established in 1993 in memory of Dr. James V. Moon, a former superintendent at Morton High School District, the James V. and Dorothy B. Moon Scholarship program is committed to improving the education and qualifications of school administrators. Since its inception, 142 scholarships totaling over $335,324 have been awarded to current or aspiring superintendents. Practicing school administrators in Illinois qualify if they are college graduates pursuing an advanced degree in educational administration at an accredited college or university. Several scholarships ($2,500 minimum each) are awarded each year and are paid directly to the college or university to cover tuition, fees and/or textbook expenses. To obtain more information on the application and awards process, click here or contact Jodi Gillespie at 217–753–2213 or email at jgillespie@iasaedu.org. Do you know there are scholarships available through the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA) to help offset the costs of your coursework?

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday, January 19, 2024 Friday, January 19, 2024

School Administrators Foundation for Education

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September 27–29, 2023 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield— A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel 59TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE register now!

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Get ready for an incredible experience that will inspire, ignite and motivate you! Join us for IASA’s 59th Annual Conference...

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Wed. 4pm—Opening General Session Dr. Jill Siler Thrive Through the Five: Leading Through Challenging Times

Sponsored by:

How would you describe your speaking style? My goal is to value the work that our leaders are doing, understanding how challenging it can be—and then to empower, equip and inspire! I speak from the heart, tell a few stories that have helped me grow, and share voices of some of my favorite leaders through a fast-paced, multimedia presentation. What are you looking forward to most when you present at the IASA Annual Conference? I count it a privilege to speak to any group, but my heart is with school leaders. I’ve served in almost every position in education—from paraprofessional to superintendent. And I cannot wait to work with the leaders in Illinois! What’s one thing about you that people should know before your keynote presentation? I can’t ever say just one thing. I am a mom; a daughter; a wife; a former Division I athlete, an author, a speaker, a teacher, a lover of spreadsheets and hot brownies and a student of stellar leadership. Can you share a piece of leadership advice for superintendents? The landscape for teaching has changed so much in the past five years, yet the truth that we are only as good as our people remains true. So our responsibility to create

an environment that people want to be a part of has never been more critical. As leaders, we can’t compromise our standards or expectations, but we do get to choose how to do this work; how to lead. By keeping a pulse on the people we’re leading and, in turn, serving and leading them well— our students will benefit! Was there an educator in your life who helped you become the person you are today? The word “mentor” comes from Homer’s Odyssey as Mentor was the person who took care of Odysseus’ son when he went off to war. I love that metaphor for mentorship—to grow up under someone’ s leadership. And I have been blessed to grow up under so many incredible leaders. One of my favorites was David Manning who led my principal program. He helped me see that, while the tasks are important, it is the people that we need to pour into in order to best serve our students.

register now!

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Adam Welcome The Time Is Now Thurs. Morning— Second General Session

Sponsored by:

How would you describe your speaking style? I’ve always felt my style of speaking is comparable to a roller coaster. I always weave in energy, emotion, teachable moments, stories about kids and educators and, at the end, it all comes together in a momentous finale just like a ride at the amusement park. Everyone is going to laugh, some people are going to cry (all happy tears) but EVERYONE will walk away with some new ideas to implement in their school district. What are you looking forward to most when you present at the IASA Annual Conference? Connecting with new leaders that I don’t already know and, in turn, connecting with others who don’t already know each other is always a highlight and mission of mine. We’re better together, and the sooner we can connect with each other, the better we’re going to be for the students we work with every single day. What’s one thing about you that people should know before your keynote presentation? I’ve been a teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal and Director of Innovation for a district with 35,000 students. I’m an educator and always make decisions that are best for kids. The adults are important, but everything we do BETTER be good for kids.

Can you share a piece of leadership advice for superintendents? My best piece of advice for superintendents is to spend as much time as you can each week in classrooms. I know it’s hard when you’re running an entire district, but spending time in classrooms with kids and teachers is the BEST way to see where your organization is. You can’t know where you need to go, if you first don’t know where you are. I’ve worked with over 350 school districts in 44 states, and I just feel too many district leaders spend WAY too much time in their offices. More classrooms, less district office. Was there an educator in your life who helped you become the person you are today? My dad was a second-grade teacher for 35 years and he completely shaped and molded the educator that I am today. He’s been gone 12 years, and I miss him dearly, but every decision I make as a human being is reflected in what he did as a teacher.

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Dr. Gene Kerns Thurs. Morning— Second General Session Academic Recovery: Is It Happening? How Do We Embrace It?

Sponsored by:

How would you describe your speaking style? Animated and energized. What are you looking forward to most when you present at the IASA Annual Conference? The continued conversations. This will be my fifth or sixth contact in IASA in the last two years. What’s one thing about you that people should know before your keynote presentation? I’m a third-generation teacher so I get education, and I try to be eminently practical. Can you share a piece of leadership advice for superintendents? Keep the main thing the main thing. It’s harder than it sounds.

Was there an educator in your life who helped you become the person you are today? There were many. One was my college advisor and “second mom,” Dr. Nancy Anderson Haga. She pushed me into leadership roles. I was coordinating an event for her as an undergraduate, and someone called me back at her office with some follow-up information asking to speak to “Dr. Kerns.” She said, “He’s not available. This is his secretary. Can I take a message?”

For Up-to-Date Conference Information: Be Sure to Download the IASA Conference Mobile App

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Sponsored by:

Friday Morning— Closing General Session Merlyna Valentine

Prove What’s Possible

Sponsored by:

How would you describe your speaking style? Dynamic, transformational, inspiring and empowering. My goal is to ensure that my audience leaves my keynote ready to prove what’s possible! What are you looking forward to most when you present at the IASA Annual Conference? I am eagerly looking forward to engaging with participants and empowering them to embrace change as they discover pathways to thrive even when leading in challenging times. What’s one thing about you that people should know before your keynote presentation? My powerful story of survival, courage and hope will serve as the backdrop for my transformational presentation. I enrich my keynotes with valuable insight gleaned from over 30 years as an educator to create an impactful message that inspires, informs and empowers Can you share a piece of leadership advice for superintendents? One vital piece of leadership advice for superintendents is to foster a culture of adaptability and empathy. Encourage your team to approach change with an open and optimistic perspective. Embrace empathy as you acknowledge the challenges faced by those you lead and serve, especially as they navigate the complex educational landscape of today.

This advice will support your intentional efforts to create a more resilient educational community that succeeds amidst uncertainties. Was there an educator in your life who helped you become the person you are today? My mother is the educator who helped me become the strong, confident person I am today. She ignited the flame within me to become an educator. Her unwavering dedication to her students, and her relentless commitment to making a positive impact on young lives, inspired me to do the same. Witnessing the profound impact she had on her students motivated me to follow in her footsteps.

register now!

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This thought-provoking session is back by popular demand! This general session includes a series of presenters giving 5-minute presentations on a variety of topics using 15-20 slides. The slogan for Ignite presentations is “Enlighten us, but make it quick!” The line-up for this year’s Ignite session looks equally wide-ranging and impressive. Thurs. Noon—Third General Session

Dr. Tiffany Brunson Superintendent of ESD #159 in Matteson Curb Cut Effect

Dr. Tony Sanders assumed the role of Illinois State Superintendent in late February. He is the former superintendent of SD #U-46, the state’s second largest school district. His presentation will provide an update on the Illinois State Board of Education and his vision for the state agency. Plus Illinois State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders

Dr. Brian Mentzer Superintendent of Belleville Twp HSD #201 Cave Exploration Dr. Bob McBride Superintendent of Lockport Twp HSD #205 Taylor Swift Will Make You a Better Leader Larry Maynard Superintendent of Oak wood CUSD #76 Aspiring Subsitute Teacher Academy Kathy Clark Superintendent of Johnston City CUSD #1 Targeted, Tired and Tormented

Dr. Kevin Skinkis Superintendent of Riverside- Brookfield Twp HSD #208 Strengthening Instructional Culture and Practice Through Peer Evaluation Dr. Jesse Rodriguez Superintendent of Zi on-Benton Twp HSD #126 Intentional Leadership Ignites Ideas

Sponsored by:

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5 Things to Know About IASA’s Annual Conference

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Hotel and Parking Information welcome to wear casual, school attire on Friday. P Conference Attire Registrants of IASA’s 59th Annual Conference should wear business professional attire on Wednesday and Thursday. Registrants are Registrants are encouraged to utilize the parking garage adjacent to the BOS Center and Abraham Lincoln Hotel. Parking is also available across from the BOS Center. 4

Accessing the BOS Center

PD Hours IASA is pleased to offer PD Hours for the 59th Annual Conference. Please look for an emails each Conference day with links to the day’s Sign In and Sign-Out/Evaluation forms, respectively. Those who complete both forms each day will receive a link to the Evidence of Completion form to enter the information into ELIS. Reach out to the IASA office with questions.

The BOS Center and President Abraham Lincoln Hotel are next door to each other and are also connected via a walkway in the basement. To access the Main Hall, registrants will either walk outside and enter the BOS Center lobby or use the basement walkway and take the elevator up to the Main Hall. Pick up your conference packets and register in the main lobby of the BOS Center.

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Breakfast and Lunch The following meals will be provided to conference registrants: Breakfast and lunch Thursday; Breakfast on Friday.

Thursday Only!

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Thursday Only!

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Events in the Exhibit Hall

Main Hall—BOS Center The IASA Exhibit Hall is filled with services and products to enhance your operations in nearly all directions. Stop by and check out the abundant resources available to you.

99 Additionally, joining IPAC has never been more convenient than right here at the IASA Conference. For those who wish to join forces to make IPAC a strong voice for public education, we will accept a check or credit card for payment of IPAC dues at the IPAC table on Thursday, next to the Registration Booths in the BOS Lobby. STAIRS 84 85 86 87 MADISON ST. EXIT

EXHIBIT HALL OPEN Thurs 9am-2pm

LOBBY Coffee breaks will be available inside the hall. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to Noon Thursday and is complimentary for all conference attendees. Click here to view list of exhibitors. ENTRANCE 97 96 94 98 95 TICKET OFFICE REGISTRATION STAIRS REGISTRATION Don’t miss your opportunity to visit the Exhibition Area on the Main Floor and get a quick look at the latest products and services available to Illinois school districts.

BOS LOBBY Thurs 9am-2pm

Wednesday, September 28 6–7:30 p.m.......................... Informal Preview (as part of the Welcoming Reception) Thursday, September 29 9 a.m.–4 p.m. ................... Exhibit Hall Open and Coffee Breaks 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m. ............ Lunch

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59TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

September 27–29, 2023 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield—A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

IASA Member Showcase: Real People, Real Talk Thursday 3 p.m. Fourth General Session Illinois is blessed with talented school leaders who are elevating education and moving their districts forward. Learn more about each leader’s journey in this engaging session.

Dr. PJ Caposey Dr. PJ Caposey is the Illinois Superintendent of the Year and Finalist for National Superintendent of the Year as well as being a best-selling author having written ten books for various publishers. He believes that humility is understanding that everyone has a story—and that most people’s stories are better than yours. By understanding our own story, and examining our self-awareness, we can unlock the key to maximizing our own potential. More importantly, as our self-awareness increases our ability to understand and appreciate everyone else’s story increases ten-fold. The key to leadership starts and ends with our ability to understand ourselves. Dr. Keely Roberts Dr. Keely Roberts was recognized during her superintendency at the diverse Zion, Illinois Elementary District 6 for simultaneous academic student growth, taxpayer savings and advocacy for all. She is also the wife and mother of six whose lives were forever changed in the 2022 mass shooting at the Highland Park, Illinois Fourth of July parade. She personally was shot and seriously wounded, and her young son, Cooper, was also shot and is currently paralyzed because of the injury to his spine. Dr. Roberts has been featured in local and national media talking about the shooting, its impact on Cooper and his twin brother Luke, and her hope that Americans can come together to bring out the good in communities and create more positive environments for all. Chuck Schneider Chuck Schneider has been a superintendent/principal in a small, rural district for the past seven years with prior teaching and leadership experience throughout his 30-plus year career. His presentation will emphasize the maintaining of boundaries and balance between work and personal life. “It’s what we do, not who we are.” Although mental health doesn’t necessarily have a bandage, cast or stitches that doesn’t mean there isn’t an injury. Chuck will share his experience with mental health, and the pivotal role that boundaries and balance played in his recovery.

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Tweeting? When tweeting about the

IASA Annual Conference be sure to use the hashtag: #IASA2023

register now!

Wednesday Morning EARLY BIRD ACADEMY Registration Information The cost is $200 per academy. Sign-in will begin at 8 a.m. and the courses are scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The registration fee includes the cost of materials, lunch and entry of AA credit or PD Hours. Cancellation refunds will be granted if the IASA Office receives the cancellation notice seven days prior to the event. If notice is received less than seven days prior to the event, the registration fee will be forfeited. Please register for Early Bird Academies through the Conference registration link at the top of this page.

Early Bird Academies

Navigating Superintendent and School Board Relationships (AA #3998) Dr. Vicki Tabbert and Dr. Vic Zimmerman, IASA Field Services Directors, retired superintendents The purpose of this course will be to provide participants with an in-depth overview of the topics related to navigating the relationships necessary to lead a school district successfully. This course will offer tools and strategies for leaders to develop the skills needed to successfully navigate the relationship between the Superintendent and School Board. Included in this academy will be an overview of the policies, processes, reflections, and tools needed to foster, build, and create positive school district relationships. School Leader Evaluation: A Growth-Focused Approach (AA #3967) Dr. Kay Dugan, retired assistant superintendent, education consultant new!

Health Life Safety Compliance: An Administrators Guide to the Fundamentals (AA #3700) Patrick Durley, District Support Officer for ROE #17 and retired Regional Superintendent, ROE #33 Ralph Grimm, IASA Field Services Director, retired superintendent 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 superintendent’s. You will gain a better understanding of all things pertaining to you and related to the processes, and walk away with a number of helpful resource documents and strategies. Looking to grow your school leaders? This session will introduce you to the School Leader Evaluation Plan, a new principal evaluation tool based on the School Leader Paradigm, a research-based framework developed by the School Leader Collaborative, a group of 13 state principal associations from across the country. Grounded in research and best practice with a focus on the leader’s growth, this new plan, piloted during the 2022–2023 school year in Illinois, meets the Illinois statutory principal evaluation requirements.

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59TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

September 27–29, 2023 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield—A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

register now!

Pre-Conference Sessions Wednesday

New Superintendent Meeting Wednesday 10a.m.–Noon With IASA Field Services Directors

Dr. Gary Kelly

Diane Robertson

Dr. Gary Zabilka

First year superintendents will share how their first 90 days have gone—as well as share some insight and anecdotes of

what they’ve learned and what they have to look forward to for the remainder of their first year. The IASA Field Services Directors will provide support, guidance, and offer suggestions based on their collective years of superintendent experience.

Click here to RSVP.

Women In Leadership: Learning, Leading And Living Wednesday 1–3p.m. President Abraham Lincoln Hotel Ballroom Dr. Jill Siler • Increase Your Impact This session begins and ends with us—knowing what we want to DO and who we want to BE and being intentional about discovering and living out our calling. Dr. Jill Siler, author of Thrive Through the Five: Practical Truths to Powerfully Lead through Challenging Times will share strategies to live and lead in a way that allows us to be our best selves at work and home!

Sponsored by:

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Breakout Sessions Thursday & Friday

Thursday, Sept. 29 8:00–9:00AM • Who Let the Dogs Out? • Mindful Leadership and Resilience:

Friday, Sept. 30 8:30–9:30AM • When Your World Turns Upside Down– How Do We Navigate This? • Our District’s Journey to Boldly Moving 15 Forward • School-Community Partnership: Parents to Paras to PEL • Building a Support Network in the Superintendency • Superintendent’s Guide to Recruiting, Hiring and Evaluating a School Business Official • Sunsetting Your Superintendency • Designing for Change: A Framework for District Leadership to Foster Agency and Collaboration • All Improvement Requires Change, Not All Change Is an Improvement • Montgomery County CTE Partnerships Click here to see names of presenters for all the Breakout Sessions and here for pull-down descriptions.

Leading with Well-Being in Mind • Navigating the Reading Wars • The Promise of Public Education: A Promise Worth Keeping • Everything I’ve Learned about Leadership in 32 Years • Beyond Compliance: Creating a Future-Focused Program that Empowers Students, Enhances Communities, and Prepares for High-Demand Careers • Leading Through Poverty, On Purpose and For Good • Building Student Skills Through Hands-On Projects • School Leader Evaluation: A Growth Focused Approach 1:45–2:45PM • Developing a Bond Proposal: Passing on the First Try • Meaningful Leadership: Lessons For Improving Equity through the Lens of Black Families • United States Rural School Safety Project • Elevating the Conversation Around Public Education. • Empathetic Navigation of the IEP Process: Parental Resources, Support, and Advocacy for Students Requiring Additional Care • Harnessing AI for a Human-Centered Education–Discussion & Frameworks for Educational Leadership • Using Your Building as a Work-Based Tool for Industry-Relevant Learning and Teacher Development • Bloomington District 87’s Journey– A Homegrown path to DEI • Academic Recovery at Speed and Scale

Sponsored by:

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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:

Legacy

Premier

Thank You

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59TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

September 27–29, 2023 BOS Center and the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield—A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

The IASA Annual Meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 27 during the IASA Annual Conference. register now! Annual Meeting

Receptions–Wednesday & Thursday

IASA Welcoming Reception Wednesday 6–7:30p.m.

Come join us as we celebrate at the IASA Welcoming Reception in the BOS Center Main Hall. This event will give you time to reconnect with your colleagues from around the state and meet the IASA staff.

Sponsored by:

IASA President’s Reception Thursday 9–11 p.m.

We hope you will

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Join Us for black bkgd:

Come together with your colleagues and IASA President Dr. Roger Alvey for an exciting reception in the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel Ballroom. Guests should dress casual in Jimmy Buffet, tropical themed attire. A Dueling Pianos band will be the entertainment, taking requests from all genres of music. This enjoyable gathering presents another chance to reconnect with fellow professionals from across the state and catch up with old friends.

entertainment by:

Sponsored by:

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Health Alliance™ works closely with the Illinois Schools Employee Benefits Consortium to bring quality health insurance to members. As dedicated public servants, local school district administrators are crucial to maintaining a valuable education system that serves children throughout the community. Health Alliance is proud to support educators’ wellbeing and bring our unique approach to serving members. That means bringing the strength of our vertically integrated healthcare system to put into practice an approach that is grounded in providing value for members and improving health outcomes. As a central-Illinois-based regional leader, Health Alliance has been able to fully optimize what a vertically integrated system of care truly intends to be. A focus on the member, instilling a strategic growth approach, and looking for opportunities to bring innovation to member services have been foundational to maintaining our strong presence in the areas we serve. Health Alliance is the top ranked Commercial Member Health Plan for customer satisfaction in Illinois/ Indiana* based on the results of the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Commercial Member Health Plan Satisfaction Study(SM). Your Health Matters

Health Alliance Brings Value to Health Outcomes for ISEBC members

Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for members to navigate the healthcare system and maintain their family’s health. We know so much of that is building and managing the trust in local providers. Our strong relationships with local healthcare providers are foundational to bringing the best experience and care to our membership. In addition to growing our provider networks to ensure members have access to their provider and facility of choice, we understand how crucial it is for us to build our benefit plans with health outcomes in mind. Our patient-centered medical model instills team based care and listens to member priorities to address any health concerns members may face. Prioritizing things like removing unnecessary pre authorizations, sharing quality goals with provider partners, bringing wellness resources to members and establishing strong pharmacy partners all work together to bring ISEBC members the best services possible. Health Alliance is committed to bringing the resources and support ISEBC members and members across the state deserve.

To learn how Health Alliance can save your district money, contact your ISEBC agent:

Clemens and Associates, Inc.: tcockburn@clemensins.com (Egyptian, Shawnee, Kaskaskia, Southwestern and Wabash Valley)

American Central Insurance Services: jeremy@americancentralins.com (Abe Lincoln, Central Illinois Valley,

J. Krug: lsimios@jkrug.com

James Unland & Company, Inc.: bshock@unland.com (Western (Knox County) and Central Illinois Valley (Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford counties)

(Blackhawk, Kishwaukee (Boone, DeKalb and Winnebago counties), Northwest and Starved Rock)

Corn Belt, Illini, Kaskaskia, Two Rivers and Western)

*Health Alliance Medical Plans received the highest score in the Illinois/Indiana Region in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Commercial Member Health Plan Satisfaction Study of members’ satisfaction with their commercial health plan experience. Visit jdpower.com/awards for more details.

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Legal Corner

Chad Watkins IASA Associate Director/General Counsel

To help school leaders navigate uncertain times, IASA has partnered with leading law firms throughout Illinois to provide districts with critical guidance during the 2023–24 school year. In every issue of Leadership Matters, the IASA Legal Corner will showcase an article written by attorneys who specialize in legal matters related to education. It is our hope you find the content insightful, timely and helpful in addressing the critical matters you face.

This month, Petrarca, Gleason, Boyle & Izzo, LLC writes about new requirements relating to excess fund accumulations. As a reminder, IASA Legal Corner articles are provided for informational purposes only, and you are advised to contact your district counsel for legal advice. Click on the link below to access the article.

New Requirements Relating To Excess Fund Accumulations

A new law recently signed by Governor Pritzker will require school districts to report and avoid excess accumulation of money in their principal operating funds. Public Act 103-0394 has added Section 17-1.10 to the School Code. This law will affect each district’s annual budget and levy process. It also has implications for one of the most common types of tax rate objection. Annual Calculation Beginning with the 2024-2025 school year and for every year thereafter, each district must calculate the combined fund balance of its three principal operating funds: the Educational Fund, the Operations and Maintenance Fund, and the

Transportation Fund. The amounts are to be derived from the district’s most recently audited annual financial report (AFR). The results of this calculation must be made in a written report presented at a school board meeting. (Expressly exempted from this provision, however, are any school districts receiving federal impact aid.) Note that just last year the General Assembly imposed an obligation on districts to publicly report the cash reserve balances in each district fund twice a year, at the time of the budget and levy hearings. This is an additional requirement... (continue reading)

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Education Elevat g

Dr. Darren Root Auburn CUSD #10

Dr. Mary Ticknor Lemont Twp HSD #210

Who: Dr. Darren Root, superintendent What: Serves on Capital Area Career Center Board and Springfield Area Special Education District boards; Chair of Regional Office of Career and Technical Education EFE #310; Help mentor new superintendents in Sangamon County; Member of Sullivan Group; Promote the profession by speaking at university education classes; Wrote dissertation

Who: Dr. Mary Ticknor, superintendent What: Chair of South Cooperative for Public Education; Illinois High School District Organization Board member; Federal Lands Impacted Schools Association Board member; IASA Women in Leadership; IASA School of Advanced Leadership Fellow; Helped pass a referendum that provided funding to update facilities; Launched

on school board relations; Helped pass one percent sales tax for schools in Sangamon County; Advanced numerous educational and school safety initiatives in Auburn CUSD #10 Where: Auburn CUSD #10, Abe Lincoln Region When: Superintendent of Auburn CUSD #10 since 2012 Why: Dr. Darren Root learned early in his superintendency that it is essential to collaborate with other leaders who are driving decisions to make sure everyone’s needs are served. “My brother was the superintendent of Williamsville-Sherman before he passed away in 2016. I remember when it came to snow days, he would say, ‘We’re only 30 miles apart. I don’t think the temperature is any different where you live. Why should I have school and you cancel. Let’s help each other out and collaborate.” Throughout his 11 years as superintendent, Dr. Root has tried to collaborate with his peers to elevate education for students throughout the region. He serves on the Capital Area Career Center (CACC) and Springfield Area Special Education District (SASED) boards. He’s also Chair of the Regional Office of Career and Technical Education EFE #310. “I got into education because I wanted to serve my community and help students reach their full potential,” Dr. Root said. “I think the community extends beyond Auburn to all of

Lemont Time to foster positive school culture and climate; Chicago Tribune Top Workplace Award for the previous seven consecutive years Where: Lemont Twp HSD #210, Cook South When: Superintendent of Lemont Twp HSD #210 for 12 years Why: Early in her education administration career, Dr. Mary Ticknor heard a key piece of advice that has helped guide her throughout her superintendency. “A very smart person once told me that connection must come before content,” Dr. Ticknor said. “I’ve always believed that one of our roles as administrators is creating the right connections, which helps create the right climate for academic success to occur.” Lemont Twp HSD #210 has received a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace Award for the previous seven consecutive years. A major reason for the honor is a key pillar in the district’s strategic plan is maintaining a safe, secure and caring school climate that fosters student learning and provides a positive work environment. One program that carries out that mission is Lemont Time. Students are placed into small groups of 12–15 people by grade level with a teacher. The class meets

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Ticknor ... cont’d. once per week for 30 minutes on Wednesdays. The groups will stay together for all four years of high school. “The purpose is to build a sense of belonging at Lemont, which also serves as a school safety measure,” Dr. Ticknor said. “Students learn how to ask for help; develop communication skills; set academic goals; learn about appropriate use of social media; develop listening skills and we promote ‘See something, Say something’ as a core component of our school safety plan. It’s not time for homework. We designed a curriculum focused on student health and well-being.” Leading a successful referendum in 2022 to increase the debt extension base and provide the district with a long-term stream of revenue to continually modernize and update facilities, will be transformative. Projects such as renovated classrooms, collaboration areas, infrastructure improvements—including HVAC upgrades and new roofs— plus a new cafeteria/commons and field house have all been identified in the district’s Master Facilities Plan. “We were able to increase our debt service extension base limit from $250,000 to $5 million and keep our tax dollars level,” Dr. Ticknor said. “It was quite an accomplishment and much needed for the district. With the Master Facilities Plan, we can now put pricing and sequencing in place for the community to see.” Outside of Lemont Twp HSD #210, Dr. Ticknor has been a member of the Federal Lands Impacted Schools Association, including serving as Chair of the Advocacy Committee. Her involvement is because Argonne National Laboratory resides within the district’s borders. FLISA’s mission is to secure federal funding, which reimburses eligible districts for tax revenue lost (for student programs) due to the federal government’s removal of land from the local tax rolls. “We go to Washington D.C. twice per year to advocate for this funding because it is frequently zeroed out of budget proposals,” Dr. Ticknor said. “In Lemont, we would lose about $1 million per year. That would be a significant cut for us.” Dr. Ticknor is also active with the South Cooperative Organization for Public Education, Illinois High School District Association and IASA’s Women in Leadership initiative.

Root ... cont’d.

Sangamon County, to the Abe Lincoln Region and throughout central Illinois. It’s important to embrace that communal mindset and try to work together to do what’s best for all students.” Dr. Root has also tried to take the lessons he’s learned in leadership and share them with new superintendents in informal settings. One area of focus is helping younger leaders keep up with the influx of new state laws and mandates each year. Most months he attends the Sullivan Group and shares challenges and successes with his peers in the region. The Sullivan Group is a longstanding meeting for superintendents in central Illinois. “We come together and listen to each other’s problems, provide feedback, share resources and collaborate,” Dr. Root said. “The challenges continue to evolve over the years, so it’s important to stay connected with your peers and learn new ways to navigate difficult issues.” Promoting education as a valuable and personally fulfilling profession has been a priority for Dr. Root. He regularly speaks at university classes to encourage young students to become educators and for young people to pursue education administration. His dissertation focused on school board member training and perceptions of their preparedness to serve. “A lot of school board members will run for office for one reason and then they get on board and realize the reason they were disgruntled is not valid,” Dr. Root said. “I call it the Casey’s rule. People hear something getting a donut at Casey’s, but it doesn’t pan out to be true. It’s important to educate the community and try to change motivations for serving on school boards. This work is important, and a successful organization needs everyone walking in the same direction.” In 2018, voters in Sangamon County approved the one cent countywide school facilities sales tax. The passage has produced millions of dollars in upgrades to schools across Sangamon County. In Auburn, where Dr. Root helped rally support, the funds have been used to make school buildings safer by relocating offices to the main entrance. As superintendent, Dr. Root has led numerous initiatives to improve the educational environment for students, improve facilities and support the mental health of students. The district has expanded technology, added a social worker and fostered a more welcoming environment. “The key is relationships,” Dr. Root said. “We work hard to connect with students and build up their self-image and self-esteem.”

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By Jason Nevel IASA Director of Communications Reimagining Rural Leadership Kicks Off in Bunker Hill

The first dilemma at the kickoff event for IASA’s newest cohort, Reimagining Rural Leadership, was quickly resolved about 45 minutes into the session. Todd Dugan, superintendent of Bunker Hill CUSD #8 and facilitator of the cohort, discovered he wouldn’t have a second bus driver to shuttle the 49 rural educators to the different destinations planned for the event. Reimagining Rural Leadership serves superintendents, central office administrators and principals from rural schools across Illinois. Within seconds of announcing his predicament, solutions immediately surfaced. “I have my bus drivers license,” one

participant said. Another participant quickly echoed those sentiments, as did at least a half dozen educators in the room. One superintendent even noted he drove a bus route before he arrived in Bunker Hill that morning. While issues like limited healthcare, lack of industry, declining populations and lower funding levels plague rural schools— resourcefulness has never been a problem. “In some rural communities, the superintendent is also the Title Director, Transportation Director, and sometimes even the Principal,” Dugan said. “This is an area which needs improvement, and this initial rural leadership cohort will tackle that and other issues.”

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Cohort Welcomes Special Guests IASA kicked off the Reimagining Rural Leadership cohort on September 14 at the Wolf Ridge Elementary Library in Bunker Hill CUSD #8. Two Illinois Deputy Governors, Andy Manar and Martin Torres, were special guests. Both Manar and Torres discussed how the state has invested in public schools, from early childhood education, Evidence-Based Funding, MAP Grants, CTE programs and grants to address the teacher shortage.

IASA took an anonymous live poll during the Sept. 14 session asking participants why they are here. Below are some of their responses.

To learn, grow and be the best person/team for our parents, students and community. To gain new ideas and surround myself with like-minded leaders. Rural issues are different from other districts, and I want to learn what other rural districts are doing. I want to make the last four years in education the best yet. I can do this by learning from others. I want to be part of helping rural schools be successful.

“”

The event also featured opening remarks from IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark, a presentation from IASA Associate Director of Professional Development Dr. Courtney Orzel and a keynote presentation from Dr. Kim Alexander, CEO of Collegiate Edu-Nation. Dr. Alexander shared examples of unique models of supporting students in Roscoe, Texas beyond grade 12. Their model, which supported targeted students in grades 13 and 14, results in a 100 percent certification or degree attainment rate for their high school graduates. A bus tour that included stops at the now ramshackled Meissner Elementary School, the remote Royal Lakes

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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Rural ... cont’d.

Community, a unique public-private partnership with Jarden Farms and a final stop at Bunker Hill High School comprised an eventful day. “The tour was intended to show the rural leaders that the barriers facing their communities are similar, if not the same, and collegial networking will help leaders move their schools forward,” Dugan said. Last year, Dugan brought forward the idea of a rural cohort, which includes a mix of in person and virtual sessions, to IASA. The idea was based on the AASA Advancing Rural Education cohort. IASA’s cohort will include 10 sessions over the course of eight months—eight of which will be virtual. The other in person session is May 9, 2024 in Olympia. The sessions will feature leaders from national education organizations, superintendents from other states and tours of innovative schools. A discussion on education trends/research and opportunities to share successes and challenges with peers will be prioritized each session. Like any cohort model, networking, sharing ideas and building relationships will be a pillar of Reimagining Rural Leadership. The overall goal is to help rural educators advance 21st Century learning practices while maintaining community support. “I think everyone’s going to walk away and gain great relationships,” Dr. Orzel said. “They’re going to be able to elevate their game when it comes to reimagining rural because they’ll be equipped with so many more resources.” CTE, SEL and Facilities Highlight Reasons for Participation Participants in the cohort come from as far north as the Wisconsin border, west to the Mississippi River, east to the Indiana border and south to Kentucky. Josh Temple, superintendent of Riverdale CUSD #100 in the Blackhawk Region, said he signed up for Reimagining Rural

Leadership to network with other school leaders and learn how his peers have strengthened Career and Technical Education programs in their respective districts. “I think one of my goals is to learn how other superintendents are creating meaningful connections with those students who are not traditionally college bound and creating a pathway for them to be successful after high school,” Temple said. Jakie Walker, superintendent of Red Hill CUSD #10 in Wabash Valley Region, noted one of his goals was to learn how other districts have partnered with local businesses to create new learning environments for high school students. He was also excited for the opportunity to connect with peers from rural districts from all parts of the state. “I think you can never learn too much and this is a great opportunity to see how superintendents in other districts prepare their students and staff,” Walker said. Stacey Day at West Central CUSD #235 in the Western Region added learning more about innovative social emotional supports for students and gaining insights into how other districts developed their Master Facilities Plan were among topics she hoped to learn more about. Brandi Bruley, superintendent of Waverly CUSD #6, added that she enrolled because she wanted to discover new strategies to operate with limited finances, how to develop an Innovation Center and learn more from other districts that built a solar farm on campus. “What’s great about being here with so many rural educators is that we all share common experiences and can help each other navigate difficult situations,” Bruley said. The next session for Reimagining Rural Leadership is Oct.16.

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