LM Sept2022hi

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. Judy Hackett NSSEO Daniel Booth Carbondale CHSD#165

Who: Daniel Booth, superintendent What: Inspiring black educators to pursue the superintendency; Partnering with Southern Illinois University Carbondale and John A. Logan College to create career pathways for students; Developing a new strategic plan for Carbondale CHSD #165; IASA COVID-19 Transition Team; Illinois Balanced Accountability Measure

Who: Dr. Judy Hackett, superintendent What: Advocate at the state and national levels for special education; IASA Board of Directors; AASA Governing Board; IAASE Board member and Legislative Co-Chair; Illinois State Advisory Council; ISAL VI Graduate; Positive Pathways Forum Facilitator; Lead NSSEOBright Spots Visits

Where: Northwest Suburban Special Education Organization (NSSEO) When: Superintendent of NSSEO for 16 years Why: For over three decades in educational leadership Dr. Judy Hackett has remained committed to helping students with a wide range of diverse needs achieve their life goals and lead systems to design and support customized ways to support educational journeys. “It is important to me to be involved with organizations and forums that have a greater purpose and perspective,” Dr. Hackett said. “The students we serve are special, talented and courageous. I believe it is our purpose to lead our teams to help students reach their goals, follow their dreams and try to make sure people understand the possibilities that shape their futures. That is the driving force for me.” In addition to leading NSSEO for 16 years, Dr. Hackett has been an advocate for students with special needs at the

Committee and School Construction Task Force; Panelist at IASA New Superintendent Conference and Aspiring Superintendent Academy. Where: Carbondale CHSD #165, Shawnee Region When: Superintendent of Carbondale CHSD #165 for two years; Superintendent of Carbondale ESD #95 from 2018–2021 Why: Throughout southern Illinois, black school administrators have historically been under-represented. Ever since he was hired as superintendent of Carbondale ESD #95, Daniel Booth has tried to show black educators they can succeed in a school leadership role. “I feel like it’s part of my responsibility to help strengthen the pipeline of black school administrators,” Booth said. “People need to see that people from a diverse background can do this work—and do it well.”

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LM September 2022