Explore the crucial role of diverse perspectives in the educational bond planning process. Co-presented with David VanderYacht, superintendent of Lynden School District, this session delves into strategies for fostering a culture of engagement and civil discourse within school communities. Through real-life examples from the Lynden School District, participants will learn how authentic engagement and communication strategies can effectively build trust and consensus across varied stakeholder groups.
As a hands-on project executive with over two decades of experience in construction management and strategic advisory for K-12 school districts, I focus on delivering solutions that combine technical excellence with the unique needs of students, families, and individual communities... Read More →
What are the consequences of constant leadership turnover? Besides financial costs, the impacts on culture, systems, and learning for both students and adults can have lasting negative effects. If highly effective school leaders are the number one influence on student achievement, then supporting leadership should be top priority for every district.
Learn strategic and impactful ways to maximize and increase student voice in your schools and communities utilizing AWSL’s proven strategies and approaches, empowerment, and voice!
Join presenters as they share different approaches to balancing multi-million dollar budget shortfalls in big and small districts. Northshore reopened their labor contracts and negotiated reductions (how did that happen?!), while other districts cut over 200 positions. How the crisis happened, and why and how each district approached their cuts will be discussed.
Specific learning disability is the most common disability category for special education services. Since 2004, states have been allowed to use a Response to Intervention (RTI) approach; WA state will require this approach by 2028. This session will discuss the changes in practice and policy needed to make this change.
Dr. Tania May is the Assistant Superintendent of Special Education for the Washington state Office ofSuperintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). Her work is focused on collaborating with schools,community partners, families, and students in support of improved outcomes for students... Read More →
Executive Director, Learning Support Services (Retired), Uinversity of Washington Bothell
William (Bill) retired after 42 years in the public schools. He has extensive experience in district-wide (PK-12) and school-based implementation of integrated MTSS, including the areas of universal screening, multi-level prevention systems, progress monitoring, and data-based decision... Read More →
In this interactive session, we will explore the vital role educators play in driving meaningful change. Participants will engage in collaborative discussions and hands-on activities aimed at identifying challenges and opportunities in educational leadership. We will share innovative strategies for empowering educators and explore barriers that sometimes arise. This session will emphasize the importance of district leaders and educators banding together to make lasting impacts for the communities we serve.
Washington State Teacher of the Year, Auburn School District
Blaire Penry is the 2024 Washington State Teacher of the year. She is an Instructional Specialist and electives teacher for grades 6-12 for the Auburn School District. With nearly a decade of experience in education, she has led in the creation of student equity groups, developed... Read More →
School board members act as a vital bridge between the communities who elected them and the school districts they oversee. Developing effective community outreach efforts, especially to hear from our most underrepresented communities, allows board members to gain insights that will inform the decisions they make on the dais.
Megan Sweet is a systems-thinker who has been in education for more than 25 years. She's been a teacher, school administrator, and school district leader. Megan also has a Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and her academic and professional interests rest mainly with how to... Read More →
