LM Summer 2024

The Mess Can Consume Us

Stressed Leaders Retreat Empowers Leaders to Face, Tackle and Rise Above the Challenges of Leadership

By Dan Stecken, Superintendent Seneca Twp HSD #160

with like-minded leaders, and think about what needs to happen for us to be at our best, especially in times of crisis.” I was hired as superintendent of Seneca Twp HSD #160 in July 2021. This concept came to me as I listened, intently, to those colleagues of mine at meetings and conferences, who seemed to be drowning in the problems that we all face. “The mess” can consume us, and I wanted to provide an opportunity for professional development that gives back to our leaders and empowers them to face, tackle, and rise above the challenges of leadership. I shared with the group about struggling with “The Striver’s Curse,” and a need to “Shock the System.” Mike Donatelli, a fitness coach, shared his experience training and

Rochester Superintendent Dan Cox shared that powerful reflection to a crowd of 25 educational leaders at the first Stressed Leaders Retreat, held at the tranquil setting of Camp Aramoni in the Starved Rock area. Dan, along with other educators and leaders in the public and private sector, met to tackle stress When was the last time you did something for the FIRST TIME?

coaching leaders who struggle to put themselves first and led us on a networking hike. Then, we explored Starved Rock Country on the Saint Genevieve River Boat and wrapped up day one at the Lone Buffalo Brewery. Here elementary school teacher Sara Olson shared her journey of being a transformational leader, who always put herself last, until a heroic fight against cancer changed her life. Her story made an impact on the group.

management techniques as well as to come together as like-minded leaders to grow professionally and personally. For two days, the group shared stories, successes and challenges superintendents face in the spirit of being our best, to lead those we serve. “The retreat accomplished the goals of being just that, a true empowering leadership retreat,” an attendee said in an evaluation survey. “We could all retreat from the everyday workday,

16 LM Summer 2024