27.06.2024 Views

2024-2025 USA-Kansas Program Book

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

<strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

PROGRAM BOOK


W O R L D C L A S S L E A D E R S H I P ,<br />

W O R L D C L A S S S T U D E N T S U C C E S S<br />

KSSA<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> School Superintendents' Association<br />

KASBO<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> Association of School Business<br />

Officials<br />

KASPA<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> Association of School Personnel<br />

Administrators<br />

KILA<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> Instructional Leaders’ Association<br />

KASEA<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> Association of Special Education<br />

Administrators<br />

KanSPRA<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> School Public Relations Association<br />

KPA<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> Principals Association<br />

KLCTE<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> Leaders of Career and Technical<br />

Education<br />

Developing and uniting educational<br />

leaders to support and advocate for the<br />

success of every <strong>Kansas</strong> student.<br />

KADPF<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> Association of Directors of Plant<br />

Facilities


<strong>USA</strong>-kansas<br />

<strong>Program</strong>s<br />

TABLE OF<br />

CONTENTS<br />

I. INTRODUCTION<br />

Welcome Letter<br />

About <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong><br />

Professional Learning Network<br />

Signature Leadership Pathway<br />

1<br />

3<br />

4-5<br />

6-8<br />

II. PROGRAM INFORMATION<br />

Elevate Leadership 1<br />

Elevate Your BLT<br />

New Principal Workshops<br />

Elevate Leadership 2<br />

360 Survey & IPS<br />

Aspiring Leaders Workshops<br />

Women in Leadership<br />

SPED & the Building Leader<br />

Executive Leadership Coaching<br />

Emerging Leadership Development<br />

for Superintendents<br />

Uniting Your Values<br />

Aspiring Superintendents Workshops<br />

Western <strong>Kansas</strong> Leadership Academy<br />

Western <strong>Kansas</strong> Career Showcases<br />

III. MEMBER ORGANIZATION<br />

INFORMATION<br />

9-10<br />

11<br />

12<br />

13-15<br />

16-18<br />

19-20<br />

21-22<br />

23<br />

24<br />

25<br />

26<br />

27<br />

28<br />

29-31<br />

32-37<br />

IV. <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS STAFF 38-43


Welcome!<br />

The excitement of a new school year is a magical feeling for a school leader! There’s so much<br />

possibility for the upcoming year; new staff joining the school family, reconnecting with returning<br />

staff members, and implementing changes planned over the summer months spent in reflection.<br />

Those first few days when staff return are a flurry of meetings, professional learning opportunities,<br />

and the energy level is at an all time high. As the first few weeks of school begin and students return<br />

to fill the hallways and classrooms, staff warmly welcome them into their new learning environment.<br />

How does a school leader bottle these energizing and inspiring emotions of the beginning of the year<br />

as the challenges and setbacks of the remainder of the year occur? Now more than ever it is<br />

imperative that leaders take time to prioritize their own learning and collaboration with other<br />

leaders to maintain the emotional energy needed to sustain a positive, high performing school<br />

culture. The workshop series provided by <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> serves to meet this need for our leaders in<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong>. At <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong>, our vision is to build world class leadership, and therefore world class<br />

student success.<br />

We encourage you to join the staff at <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> in a leadership journey pathway that meets your<br />

individual professional needs. We host a variety of workshops in regional locations throughout the<br />

state during the year. Each of these days is spent in professional learning, collaboration with other<br />

leaders, reflection, and action planning for impact back at the building and/or district level. Each<br />

series is designed to build the capacity and network of leaders across the state. Research shows that<br />

leaders who are engaged outside of their internal district circle are more effective in influencing<br />

results than leaders who solely focus on internal instruction (Kirtman, 2021).<br />

Now is the time to get engaged with other leaders in your area! Join us in a workshop cohort or other<br />

professional learning opportunity this year. Prioritize your own learning and collaboration so you<br />

lead as a learner in your district. Let this cohort help you maintain the emotional energy needed to<br />

sustain the positive, high performing culture you set out to create at the beginning of each magical<br />

school year!<br />

Register for one of our workshop series using the QR code below. Reach out to Jessica Griffin at<br />

jgriffin@usakansas.org or 620-340-3340 with any questions you may have. Many of our workshop<br />

series are included with a district’s PLN membership.<br />

Credit To:<br />

Research Findings on Leadership Effectiveness That Might Surprise You, Kirtman 2021<br />

The Principal 2.0 Three Keys to Maximizing Impact, Michael Fullan 2023<br />

Jessica Griffin<br />

Assistant Executive Director for Professional Learning<br />

<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong><br />

<strong>2024</strong>-<strong>2025</strong><br />

Workshops<br />

1


What does a <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong><br />

Membership get you?<br />

Professional Development<br />

Advocacy<br />

Legal Assistance <strong>Program</strong><br />

Professional Networking<br />

FOLLOW<br />

US ON<br />

SOCIAL<br />

MEDIA<br />

@<strong>USA</strong><strong>Kansas</strong><br />

usakansashq<br />

2<br />

<strong>USA</strong>|<strong>Kansas</strong><br />

<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong>


ABOUT <strong>USA</strong>-kansas<br />

The vision for education in <strong>Kansas</strong> is that <strong>Kansas</strong> leads the world in the success of<br />

each student. To accomplish this ambitious vision, school administrators must be<br />

developed and supported. <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> is a statewide "umbrella" organization made<br />

up of members from nine school administrator associations with <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong><br />

representing more than 2,000 individual <strong>Kansas</strong> administrators. The mission of <strong>USA</strong>-<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> is to ‘develop and unite educational leaders to support and advocate for the<br />

success of every <strong>Kansas</strong> student’ with the vision of <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> being ‘World Class<br />

Leadership, World Class Student Success’. As an organization, we provide the<br />

following services for school administrators: Professional Development, Advocacy,<br />

Legal Assistance <strong>Program</strong>s, and Social Networking.<br />

<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> offers dozens of professional development opportunities for school and<br />

system leaders across the state. Members can attend Elevate Leadership Training;<br />

engage in a ‘360 Survey’ with individualized coaching based on the survey findings;<br />

attend Launching Leadership; participate in Professional Unity; and engage in<br />

Executive Coaching. <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> also offers professional development opportunities<br />

to advance Women in Leadership.<br />

‘Capitol News’ is a key byproduct of the advocacy <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> provides on behalf of<br />

schools and school leaders in <strong>Kansas</strong>. <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> is the only group that represents<br />

the interests of School Administrators in the Capitol. In addition to advocacy, <strong>USA</strong>-<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> also provides legal assistance to school leaders. There are countless reasons<br />

professionals seek legal advice, including contract reviews and involuntary status<br />

changes. With <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> membership, our employment attorneys are available to<br />

each <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> member.<br />

Lastly, members of <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> are able to share success and learn from those in<br />

districts across <strong>Kansas</strong> through <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong>’ state conferences, magazine, forums,<br />

and social accounts. When asked what was most impactful while participating in<br />

Elevate Leadership during the 2021-2022 school year, one participant stated: “The<br />

discussion of the topics and other issues with peers and colleagues [was most<br />

impactful]. We all become better by having the opportunity to learn together and<br />

have open discussion with other educational leaders.”<br />

<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> is a dynamic organization with 145 years of school leadership expertise<br />

on the team. You can learn more about our organizational leadership team at<br />

usakansas.org.<br />

3


PROFESSIONAL<br />

LEARNING<br />

NETWORK<br />

2023/<strong>2024</strong> HIGHLIGHTS<br />

183<br />

Districts in <strong>Kansas</strong> are currently members<br />

of the <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> Professional Learning Network<br />

(PLN), up from 158 the previous year! Here is a<br />

look at what being a PLN member has to offer.<br />

1<br />

UNLIMITED ATTENDANCE AT ALL <strong>USA</strong>-KS<br />

WORKSHOPS<br />

2<br />

DISCOUNTED, CUSTOMIZABLE, IN-<br />

DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING<br />

3<br />

ONE FREE CONFERENCE REGISTRATION<br />

FOR PLN DISTRICTS<br />

9 108<br />

421<br />

(291)<br />

908<br />

(86)<br />

NUMBER OF<br />

WORKSHOPS/EVENTS<br />

In 2023-24, <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> offered 9<br />

different workshops that members could<br />

attend. These 9 workshops/programs<br />

translated into 108 meeting dates!<br />

NUMBER OF<br />

WORKSHOP<br />

PARTICIPANTS<br />

In 2023-<strong>2024</strong>, 421 individuals<br />

attended workshops offered in<br />

the PLN. Of those, 291 individuals<br />

were PLN members.<br />

NUMBER OF <strong>2024</strong><br />

CONFERENCE<br />

PARTICIPANTS<br />

The 53rd Annual Uniting Leaders<br />

Conference held May <strong>2024</strong> brought in<br />

908 attendees with 86 utilizing their free<br />

registration as part of being in the PLN!<br />

FOLLOW <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS :<br />

4


PLN Offerings:<br />

<strong>2024</strong>-<strong>2025</strong><br />

WORKSHOPS/SERVICES COVERED<br />

Aspiring Leaders Workshop<br />

New Principals Workshop<br />

Elevate Leadership Year 1<br />

Elevate Leadership Year 2<br />

Elevate Your Building Leadership<br />

Team (Summer Sessions)<br />

360 Survey and Individual Leadership Coaching<br />

(One included per PLN District, +cost of mileage)<br />

Emerging Leadership for Superintendents (NEW)<br />

School Finance University<br />

Uniting Your Values (NEW)<br />

Special Education and the Role of the Building<br />

Leader (NEW)<br />

ELEVATE<br />

LEADERSHIP<br />

“The time to pause from the<br />

day to day chaos of running<br />

a building to focus on what<br />

is most important, was so<br />

valuable...This course has<br />

helped me evaluate, refocus<br />

and recharge my ability to<br />

help our staff continue to<br />

move forward.“<br />

-Participant Comment<br />

SCHOOL FINANCE<br />

UNIVERSITY<br />

“The entire day was<br />

wonderful. I learned more<br />

about school finance in one<br />

day with Dr. Adams than I<br />

have in 20 years in the<br />

education field.”<br />

-Participant Comment<br />

360 COACHING<br />

“[My coach] is honest and<br />

asks questions that are<br />

thought provoking...This<br />

experience has made me a<br />

much better leader. The<br />

support has been above<br />

and beyond what I<br />

expected.”<br />

-Participant Comment<br />

5


Signature<br />

leadershIp PATHWAY<br />

Over the last three years, <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> has worked with KSDE, KASB, and McREL with the<br />

Region 12 Comprehensive Center to bring elements of McRel’s Balanced Leadership and<br />

NASSP’s Building Ranks into one comprehensive, multi-year training program: Elevate<br />

Leadership. The Elevate Leadership program is currently focused on building-level<br />

administrators; however, the past two years, <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> has invested in teacher leadership<br />

teams, along with their principal, as part of the summer leadership training component. The<br />

Elevate Leadership program is currently made up of four ‘courses’ that unfold over three or<br />

four school years:<br />

Elevate Leadership 1 - 6 workshops throughout the school year<br />

Elevate Your Building Leadership Team - [optional] - 3-day workshop in the summer for<br />

BLTs to work through with their leader who completed Elevate Leadership 1<br />

Optional Implementation Coaching for Building Leadership Teams throughout the<br />

school year as they work to execute on the action plans developed during the<br />

summer workshops. Simultaneously, the school leader would be participating in<br />

Elevate Leadership 2.<br />

Elevate Leadership 2 - 6 workshops throughout the school year<br />

360 Leadership Survey and Individual Leadership Coaching - monthly coaching sessions<br />

in conjunction with the completion of the 360 Leadership Survey; coaching does have<br />

the option to extend into additional school years.<br />

This investment in developing school-level leadership is critical as <strong>Kansas</strong> strives to lead the<br />

world in the success of each student. One participant of Elevate Leadership 1 wrote, “All<br />

sessions included time to learn, process with peers, and opportunity to plan for<br />

application. Every time I attended, I felt I left with a purpose.” In order to ensure that each<br />

school leader is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to lead high performing<br />

schools, we must invest in the professional development of administrators and aspiring<br />

administrators.<br />

Districts can also be part of our Professional Learning Network (PLN). Membership into the<br />

PLN is based on the number of students enrolled in the district. As a member of the PLN,<br />

districts receive: unlimited, no cost attendance to all <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> workshops; no cost<br />

attendance at <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> Regional and advocacy meetings; no cost mentoring for first year<br />

administrators; locally created in-district professional learning workshops; one free<br />

conference registration at the <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> Annual Conference; and membership discounts<br />

for administrators and partners!<br />

6


<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> supports leaders from the teacher ranks to the superintendent seat. Leaders can follow our<br />

signature program pathway and receive support from degree-seeking to job-holding administrator!<br />

New PrIncIPal WORKSHOP<br />

and Support<br />

<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong>, in collaboration with KPA, offers all new<br />

principals two days of professional learning in addition to<br />

zoom calls and coaching during their first year on the job.<br />

KELI LeadershIP Support<br />

<strong>USA</strong>-KS partners with KELI to provide the three days of<br />

professional development that each new leader receives<br />

as part of their mentoring program.<br />

ELEVATE LEADERSHIP<br />

YEAR 1<br />

This program is based on the McREL What<br />

Matter’s Most and Balanced Leadership<br />

framework. Sessions will focus on building<br />

capacity in developing strong<br />

instructional leadership skills, a laser<br />

sharp focus on best practices, how to<br />

effectively lead change, and how to build<br />

a purposeful school community. Sessions<br />

will be collaborative and include time to<br />

work on a customized action plan.<br />

360 Survey<br />

and<br />

CoacHIng<br />

Administrators will administer a 360<br />

survey electronically to their staff<br />

and supervisors to receive<br />

individual survey results around the<br />

domains of building culture. The<br />

survey is followed by the creation<br />

of an Individual Plan of Study and<br />

monthly collaborative coaching<br />

sessions with trained coaches to<br />

address self-selected growth areas.<br />

ELEVATE LEADERSHIP<br />

YEAR 2<br />

Leaders who have<br />

completed Elevate<br />

Leadership are encouraged<br />

to join an Elevate 2 Cohort<br />

to take a deeper dive into<br />

how to create healthy building cultures<br />

and effectively lead the learning process.<br />

Research confirms the vital role school<br />

leaders play in positively impacting<br />

student achievement.<br />

ELEVATE YOUR<br />

BUILDING<br />

LEADERSHIP TEAM<br />

This is a unique summer<br />

learning experience designed to<br />

build capacity in your school’s<br />

leadership team to enhance<br />

culture, develop a laser sharp<br />

focus on best practices,<br />

effectively lead change, and<br />

build a purposeful school<br />

community.<br />

7


New Principals Workshop and Support<br />

KELI Year 1 and 2 Building Support<br />

Elevate Leadership Year 1<br />

Elevate Leadership Year 2<br />

Elevate Your Building Leadership Team<br />

(Summer Sessions)<br />

360 Survey and Individual Leadership<br />

Coaching (One included per PLN<br />

District, plus cost of mileage)<br />

Aspiring Leaders Workshop<br />

Emerging Leadership for<br />

Superintendents (New)<br />

School Finance University<br />

Uniting Your Values (New)<br />

Special Education and the Role of the<br />

Building Leader (New)<br />

Producing TV News for Schools<br />

CustomIzable professIonal development, consultIng,<br />

and facIlItatIon Is avaIlable upon request.<br />

WOMEN IN<br />

LEADERSHIP<br />

Women’s<br />

Leadership Summit<br />

KPA EVENTS ANNUAL UNITING<br />

KPA Annual<br />

Conference<br />

Secretaries<br />

Workshop<br />

DISTRICT LEVEL<br />

LEARNING<br />

Aspiring<br />

Superintendents<br />

Executive Leadership<br />

KELI Year 1 and 2<br />

District Leader<br />

Support<br />

LEADERS<br />

CONFERENCE<br />

8


Year 1<br />

TESTIMONIALS FROM PAST PARTICIPANTS<br />

This is my 6th year as a principal. I have always been a<br />

person that wants to grow and improve every year, but<br />

my growth this year has easily outweighed the previous<br />

five years combined! I attribute this to Jessica’s<br />

guidance and the opportunity to learn alongside other<br />

like-minded leaders hungry for growth. The 360 survey<br />

that I had my staff complete provided valuable<br />

feedback and offered me the “nudge” I needed to<br />

challenge the status quo and initiate positive change.<br />

– Tyler Weinbrenner,Principal, Hillsboro MS/HS<br />

Elevate Leadership allowed principals to develop<br />

relationships with other professionals in the<br />

same situations. The facilitators not only gave us<br />

tools for our toolbox, but showed us how to use<br />

them effectively. I learned many things to make<br />

me a more open and positive leader! Thank you<br />

to <strong>USA</strong> for allowing this opportunity to occur!<br />

– Cassi Bozarth, Principal, Rock Hills Elementary<br />

CONTENT<br />

This program is based on the<br />

McREL What Matter’s Most<br />

and Balanced Leadership<br />

framework. Sessions will<br />

focus on building capacity in<br />

developing strong<br />

instructional leadership<br />

skills, a laser sharp focus on<br />

best practices, how to<br />

effectively lead change, and<br />

how to build a purposeful<br />

school community. Sessions<br />

will be collaborative and<br />

include time to work on a<br />

customized action plan.<br />

TARGET<br />

AUDIENCE<br />

New and Experienced<br />

Administrators, Teacher<br />

Leaders, Special<br />

Education Leaders<br />

locations<br />

Chanute<br />

Garden City<br />

Salina<br />

Topeka<br />

Goddard<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> City<br />

COST FOR<br />

6 SESSIONS<br />

Non-Member - $2,000<br />

<strong>USA</strong> Member - $1,000<br />

PLN - No Cost, Included<br />

in Membership<br />

9


Year 1<br />

2023-<strong>2024</strong> Highlights<br />

The Elevate Leadership<br />

program focuses on the<br />

development of<br />

intentional leaders who<br />

understand how to build<br />

a purposeful school<br />

community rooted in<br />

best-practices and a<br />

strong understanding of<br />

how to lead and manage<br />

change. Here is how our<br />

Elevate 1 participants<br />

rated their growth in<br />

these four areas during<br />

the 2023-<strong>2024</strong> school<br />

year.<br />

Category PRE POST CHANGE<br />

Built a Purposeful Community 2.42 3.08 +.66<br />

Intentional Leadership 2.25 2.89 +.64<br />

Identifying What Matters Most 2.27 2.80 +.53<br />

Inspiring and Leading Change 2.36 2.92 +.56<br />

*Survey was on a 4-pt scale<br />

10


Building a Culture of Learning -<br />

We Protect What We Build Together!<br />

ABOUT<br />

3 Consecutive Days<br />

Time for collaboration, reflection, and<br />

action planning for impact<br />

Topics covered: Leadership<br />

development, determining best practices,<br />

and inspiring/leading change<br />

Walk away with personal leadership<br />

growth and a building level action plan for<br />

the upcoming year<br />

<strong>2024</strong> HIGHLIGHTS<br />

Wichita - 65<br />

Humboldt - 16<br />

Garden City - 44<br />

125 total participants<br />

COST<br />

PLN District Members - $1000/Team of 5<br />

<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> Members - $2000/Team of 5<br />

Non-Members - $3000/Team of 5<br />

$100 for each additional participant<br />

DATES & LOCATIONS<br />

June 11-13, <strong>2024</strong><br />

Wichita<br />

June 25-27, <strong>2024</strong><br />

Humboldt<br />

July 9-11, <strong>2024</strong><br />

Garden City<br />

11


<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong>, with support from the <strong>Kansas</strong><br />

Principals Association, are committed to<br />

supporting new principals. We recognize the<br />

importance of connecting with and<br />

supporting new principals as they start their<br />

new role, through their first year, and beyond.<br />

Recruiting, developing, and retaining<br />

educational leaders has never been more<br />

important!<br />

MORE<br />

INFO<br />

CONTENT<br />

TARGET<br />

AUDIENCE<br />

New leaders are brought together from across the state to<br />

build their professional network. They participate in a variety<br />

of learning opportunities related to instructional leadership,<br />

roles of a leader, wellness, technology, time management,<br />

and an opportunity to ask questions of experienced leaders.<br />

LOCATION & DATES<br />

First Year Principals or<br />

Assistant Principals<br />

Principals New to<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong><br />

COST<br />

PLN Members - No<br />

cost, included in PLN<br />

membership fee<br />

Non-PLN - $350<br />

Cost includes 2 inperson<br />

meetings and 6<br />

Zoom check-ins<br />

TOPEKA<br />

In Person<br />

August 1, <strong>2024</strong><br />

January 10, <strong>2025</strong><br />

Zoom - 10:30-11:30 a.m.<br />

September 11, <strong>2024</strong><br />

October 9, <strong>2024</strong><br />

December 11, <strong>2024</strong><br />

February 26, <strong>2025</strong><br />

April 9, <strong>2025</strong><br />

12<br />

GODDARD<br />

In Person<br />

July 24, <strong>2024</strong><br />

January 15, <strong>2025</strong><br />

Zoom - 9:00-10:00 a.m.<br />

September 11, <strong>2024</strong><br />

October 9, <strong>2024</strong><br />

December 11, <strong>2024</strong><br />

February 26, <strong>2025</strong><br />

April 9, <strong>2025</strong>


Year 2<br />

TESTIMONIALS FROM PAST PARTICIPANTS<br />

Every time I attend one of these<br />

conferences I always feel empowered<br />

and more knowledgeable upon leaving.<br />

The breakdown of each segment along<br />

with the mix of partners allows for a TON<br />

of collaboration and knowledge growth.<br />

Learning from your experiences and<br />

others has been so appreciated!<br />

I appreciate the discussions with<br />

others. I also really appreciate that<br />

you value that discussion time and<br />

alter the amount of content you<br />

share so we still have the time<br />

instead of rushing through to cover<br />

more.<br />

CONTENT<br />

Leaders who have<br />

completed Elevate<br />

Leadership Year 1 are<br />

encouraged to join an<br />

Elevate 2 Cohort to take a<br />

deeper dive into how to<br />

create healthy building<br />

cultures and effectively<br />

lead the learning process.<br />

Research confirms the<br />

vital role school leaders<br />

play in positively<br />

impacting student<br />

achievement.<br />

TARGET<br />

AUDIENCE<br />

Leaders who have<br />

completed the Elevate 1<br />

<strong>Program</strong><br />

locations<br />

Chanute<br />

Dodge City<br />

Salina<br />

Topeka<br />

Goddard<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> City<br />

COST FOR<br />

6 SESSIONS<br />

Non-Member - $2,000<br />

<strong>USA</strong> Member - $1,000<br />

PLN - No Cost, Included<br />

in Membership<br />

13


2023-<strong>2024</strong> Highlights<br />

Year 2<br />

The Elevate Leadership<br />

program focuses on the<br />

development of<br />

intentional leaders who<br />

understand how to build<br />

a purposeful school<br />

community rooted in<br />

best-practices and a<br />

strong understanding of<br />

how to lead and manage<br />

change. Here is how our<br />

Elevate 2 participants<br />

rated their growth in<br />

these four areas during<br />

the 2023-<strong>2024</strong> school<br />

year.<br />

Category PRE POST CHANGE<br />

Built a Purposeful Community 2.74 3.18 +.44<br />

Intentional Leadership 2.65 2.83 +.19<br />

Identifying What Matters Most 2.41 2.86 +.45<br />

Inspiring and Leading Change 2.62 2.91 +.29<br />

*Survey was on a 4-pt scale<br />

14


Testimonial<br />

I’m Laura LaHue. I’m the Principal of Highlands Elementary in the Shawnee<br />

Mission School District. During the 2023-<strong>2024</strong> school year, I attended the<br />

Elevate 2 Leadership group.<br />

The things I like most about this group are it really helps me pause and come<br />

back to why I became a leader in the first place. Being around colleagues from all<br />

over the state is incredibly helpful in just grounding me back to the important<br />

work which is really helping me develop student learning and helping our staff be<br />

their best selves when they are at work.<br />

For anyone considering Elevate Leadership, I would tell you that not only do you<br />

get to form relationships with people that are in principal roles and at other<br />

schools in the district, but you also get to take back things that you can use right<br />

away with your staff. I would say that many times when I attended Elevate<br />

Leadership, I was quickly changing the plans for my staff meeting that was later<br />

on that same day to make sure I was ready. It’s just a really great set of system<br />

checks to make sure that we are delivering on our values each day we come to<br />

work.<br />

It’s hard to be out of your building, I will say. but every time I come, I am in it, and<br />

at night, I'm really glad I got to spend the day here with other colleagues.<br />

VIEW MORE ELEVATE<br />

VIDEOS HERE!<br />

15


AND INDIVIDUAL<br />

LEADERSHIP COACHING<br />

TESTIMONIAL FROM PAST PARTICIPANT<br />

“This is my 6th year as a principal. I have always been a person that wants to grow and<br />

improve every year, but my growth this year has easily outweighed the previous five<br />

years combined! I attribute this to Jessica’s guidance and the opportunity to learn<br />

alongside other like-minded leaders hungry for growth. The 360 survey that I had my<br />

staff complete provided valuable feedback and offered me the “nudge” I needed to<br />

challenge the status quo and initiate positive change.”<br />

CONTENT<br />

Administrators who<br />

participate with <strong>USA</strong>-<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> Leadership<br />

coaching will administer a<br />

360 survey electronically<br />

to their staff and<br />

supervisors to receive<br />

individual survey results<br />

around the domains of<br />

building culture. The<br />

survey is followed by the<br />

creation of an Individual<br />

Plan of Study and monthly<br />

collaborative coaching<br />

sessions with trained<br />

coaches to address selfselected<br />

growth areas.<br />

TARGET<br />

AUDIENCE<br />

Building Leaders who have<br />

completed Elevate<br />

Leadership 1 and 2<br />

COST<br />

Non-Member - $2,500<br />

<strong>USA</strong> Member - $2,000<br />

PLN - Districts get ONE<br />

free registrations. All<br />

following registrations<br />

are $1500 per person.<br />

(Plus Mileage)<br />

16


AND INDIVIDUAL LEADERSHIP COACHING<br />

TESTIMONIAL<br />

Over the last couple of years I have wanted to participate in some type of professional<br />

coaching. I had looked at several options but none of them were feasible. As members<br />

of the <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> Professional Learning Network (PLN), one leader in each district can<br />

utilize professional coaching at a discounted rate. I jumped at this opportunity and am<br />

so thankful for it. In the beginning I wanted someone to challenge me and hold me<br />

accountable to my leadership goals. What I got was so much more!<br />

Dr. Stessman was assigned as my coach and I knew right away that I would be able to<br />

lean on him and learn from him. The survey that my staff completed was very eye<br />

opening and allowed me to see our school from their perspective and pointed out<br />

places that needed work. Dr. Stessman helped me work through that survey and create<br />

goals for the year. During each coaching session he helped me reflect on my goals and<br />

take actionable steps that paid off! I feel that through my coaching I have learned about<br />

myself as a leader who has the ability to solve problems, prioritize the daily tasks,<br />

approach difficult conversations with confidence and move forward with the strategic<br />

plans set for my building. I will be sad to see this year end but know that the coaching I<br />

have received will serve me throughout my time as a principal!<br />

I am currently in my 7th year as principal at Syracuse Elementary School. I am a<br />

professional educator, mother to 2 amazing young adults and the wife to a generational<br />

rancher. I graduated from Fort Hays State University with a Bachelor's Degree in<br />

Elementary Education as well as my Master's in Special Education and went on to earn<br />

an endorsement in Building Leadership for FHSU as well.<br />

17


Liz Plunkett<br />

PRINCIPAL<br />

Syracuse Elementary School, USD 494<br />

As a lifelong learner I was looking for leadership opportunities to challenge myself as<br />

well as provide me a deeper understanding of my capacity to lead our amazing school<br />

community. I am a hometown girl so leading our school to success is truly personal to<br />

me. Schools in small towns are vital to the success and growth of our communities and<br />

we know that Syracuse Elementary is an amazing place for our families to send their<br />

children each day. Having the opportunity to participate in what <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> has to<br />

offer has made me a better leader to take our school to the finish line and beyond!<br />

For those of you out there looking for direction as a leader, partnering with <strong>USA</strong>-KS is<br />

the right decision! Being a school administrator can be a lonely place and we must<br />

prioritize our relationships with other school administrators. Elevate Leadership gives<br />

you a cohort of admin to connect with. Having my own coach this past year has been<br />

invaluable and taught me how to reflect and look objectively at myself as a leader. This<br />

was one of the most significant decisions I have made for myself and I will forever lean<br />

on what I have learned. Making the commitment to professional growth and<br />

development is a tough one because it takes us away from our buildings and daily<br />

responsibilities but we can not pour into others without filling our own cups! Every<br />

administrator needs to commit to these opportunities; they will not regret it!<br />

Sign up for 360 SURVEY<br />

and coaching here<br />

18


TARGET AUDIENCE<br />

Teachers ready to take the next step to building leadership<br />

Teachers who have completed their Masters Degree in<br />

Administration but still have questions<br />

Teachers ready to apply for their first administrative position<br />

Any school district employee looking for a move to a<br />

leadership position<br />

DATES and<br />

LOCATIONS<br />

GODDARD<br />

NOVEMBER 13, <strong>2024</strong><br />

Workshop Topics<br />

Leadership - What is it?<br />

The Role of the Principal<br />

Time Management<br />

Year 1 and the 3 Ls<br />

Moral Purpose<br />

What makes up a quality resume?<br />

The Interview Process<br />

Principal Panel - Q and A<br />

TOPEKA<br />

FEBRUARY 27, <strong>2025</strong><br />

Feedback<br />

“This was great!! The pace and material/content<br />

was perfect! Not too much in one session to<br />

retain!”<br />

“Listening to the principal's panel<br />

was awesome. It was great to<br />

listen to their advice.”<br />

COST<br />

PLN DISTRICT MEMBER - No Cost, Included in Membership<br />

ALL OTHER REGISTRANTS - $150<br />

19


What part of the day<br />

was most impactful?<br />

Overall, the Survey says...<br />

4.96/5<br />

20


WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP SUMMIT<br />

The Women’s Leadership Summit is a two-day conference<br />

held each Spring. The conference features keynote speakers,<br />

breakout presentations, vendors, hospitality activities, and<br />

more! It is an excellent opportunity to network with and learn<br />

from other amazing female leaders from across the state.<br />

NEXT SUMMIT<br />

March 5-6, <strong>2025</strong><br />

Target Audience<br />

The Women Connecting with Women Series and Women’s<br />

Leadership Summit are for ALL women in education! Past<br />

participants have been building leaders, district leaders, school<br />

board members, teacher leaders, special education leaders,<br />

amongst others.<br />

21


WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP SUMMIT<br />

Participant Feedback<br />

“Each of the presentations that I<br />

attended had very valuable information<br />

or words of encouragement for us as<br />

female leaders. It is hard to be out of the<br />

building, but the program made it well<br />

worth my time.”<br />

“The sessions were great and the<br />

conversations I got to have with my<br />

colleagues really helped us to form<br />

stronger connections between each<br />

other.”<br />

“Loved everything! Well organized, great collaboration, thoughtful planning”<br />

How would<br />

you rate the<br />

Summit<br />

overall?<br />

22


In the Principal’s role you face many decisions regarding the implementation of increasingly<br />

complex Special Education requirements. Do you often wish you had the full understanding of<br />

the law and the power of the IEP? We will help you build a solid foundation in Special Education<br />

that will help you make the best decisions for your students and staff as we work to achieve<br />

success for all your stakeholders. Sessions will be interactive and include time for reflection and<br />

collaboration on how to take the content back to the building to assure success and well-being<br />

for everyone. Session topics will include managing the IEP process (quality and compliance),<br />

complying with legal requirements regarding student behavior, and hot topics in our schools.<br />

TARGET<br />

AUDIENCE<br />

All Building level leaders,<br />

teacher leaders (Principal<br />

Designee when in charge),<br />

school counselors -<br />

anyone making decisions<br />

regarding Special<br />

Education. Individuals<br />

with a need to<br />

understand the law and<br />

best practices in Special<br />

Education.<br />

more<br />

info<br />

LOCATION<br />

and DATES<br />

SESSION 1<br />

Dodge City - 9.4.<strong>2024</strong><br />

Salina - 9.5.<strong>2024</strong><br />

Goddard - 9.25.2023<br />

Topeka - 10.23.<strong>2024</strong><br />

SESSION 2<br />

Dodge City - 1.22.<strong>2025</strong><br />

Salina - 2.6.<strong>2025</strong><br />

Goddard - 2.12.<strong>2025</strong><br />

Topeka - 2.19.<strong>2025</strong><br />

23<br />

COST FOR<br />

2 SESSIONS<br />

Non-Member - $300<br />

<strong>USA</strong> Member - $150<br />

PLN - No Cost, Included<br />

in Membership<br />

Includes 2 dates, lunch,<br />

and materials<br />

These events are a collaboration<br />

between <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> and the<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> Association of Special<br />

Education Administrators


CONTENT<br />

Team Leadership Coaching Sessions<br />

Designed specifically to meet the needs<br />

of the school or district. Team members<br />

will be determined by the district. Areas<br />

of coaching could include:<br />

Culture<br />

Learning and Student Achievement<br />

Accreditation Planning<br />

Community and Family Engagement<br />

TARGET AUDIENCE<br />

District Leaders with more than<br />

one year in their current<br />

administrative placement.<br />

location<br />

Customized by School/District<br />

Onsite, Zoom, Combination<br />

dates<br />

Customized by School/District<br />

Weekly or Monthly<br />

WHY?<br />

It can be lonely at the top! Executive<br />

coaches work to help leaders improve<br />

their performance and their<br />

organization as a whole. Executive<br />

coaches serve as neutral sounding<br />

boards to clients, giving organizational<br />

leaders a listening ear as they work<br />

through decisions or seeking personal<br />

improvement by supporting them to<br />

gain more awareness about how to<br />

reach their goals. An executive coach<br />

can come alongside and encourage the<br />

leader towards greater motivation,<br />

increasing their momentum as they<br />

continue to inspire the people in their<br />

organization to achieve success.<br />

HOW?<br />

<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> and the <strong>Kansas</strong> Leadership<br />

Center have worked together to train a<br />

host of <strong>Kansas</strong> coaches who you can hire to<br />

serve as your personal Executive Coach.<br />

Contact Dr. Martin Stessman<br />

(mstessman@usakansas.org) to discuss<br />

how to get started!<br />

24


<strong>Kansas</strong> Emerging Leadership Development is designed to address the needs of district leaders in<br />

year two and beyond. The program will kick off with an in-person two-day event in July.<br />

Participants will then meet in person quarterly, virtually each month, and with an individual<br />

coach monthly throughout the school year.<br />

The CC Network has developed six domains of executive leadership upon which this program will<br />

be based. Those include Visionary Leadership, Change Leadership, Inclusive Leadership,<br />

Instructional Leadership, Managerial Leadership, and Interpersonal Leadership.<br />

CONTENT<br />

Professional development will be customized to participants, including multiple<br />

opportunities for leaders to process and apply the content to their own unique<br />

context in their districts. Learning will be focused on 1-2 strategies at a time and<br />

will be supported by the group functioning as a learning community. Monthly<br />

coaching sustained over the course of the year will encourage reflection that<br />

supports deeper learning and reflection on real-life scenarios to refine their<br />

approaches to problem solving. This structured sequence of learning will help<br />

participants develop leadership competencies across domains of leadership.<br />

TARGET<br />

AUDIENCE<br />

Superintendents in years<br />

2-10 as a practicing<br />

superintendent are the<br />

target audience, but<br />

superintendents of all<br />

stages of their career are<br />

welcome and will benefit<br />

from the content and skill<br />

development.<br />

DATES<br />

September 18-19, <strong>2024</strong><br />

October 16, <strong>2024</strong><br />

January 22, <strong>2025</strong><br />

March 26, <strong>2025</strong><br />

April 30, <strong>2025</strong><br />

COST<br />

$1,000 for <strong>USA</strong>/KSSA Members<br />

$2,000 for non-members<br />

Cost includes monthly coaching<br />

sessions on site<br />

25<br />

LOCATIONS<br />

The July session will be held in<br />

Topeka. Monthly coaching<br />

meetings will be in the<br />

participants district. Quarterly<br />

meetings will be selected based<br />

on the participants.


Have you ever wondered how to help your school align day-to-day behaviors with what you have<br />

identified as core values? Join us in a 4-day series focused on bringing values to life through creating<br />

school environments that are focused on adult well-being. Research shows when the adults in a<br />

system feel safe and are connected to one another they are better able to serve the students in their<br />

care.<br />

We will explore ways to create emotional and physical safety in our schools, build intentional<br />

connections among staff and students, and explore ways to encourage problem solving around<br />

topics that create crucial conversations. Sessions will be highly interactive and include time for<br />

reflection and action planning on how to take the content back to the building impacting staff and<br />

student well being.<br />

TARGET<br />

AUDIENCE<br />

Building level leaders,<br />

teacher leaders, school<br />

counselors - anyone with a<br />

passion for creating<br />

environments in our schools<br />

focused around well-being,<br />

safety, and connection<br />

COST FOR<br />

4 SESSIONS<br />

Non-Member - $300<br />

<strong>USA</strong> Member - $150<br />

PLN - No Cost, Included in<br />

Membership<br />

Includes all four dates, lunch,<br />

and materials<br />

location<br />

and Dates<br />

Emporia State University<br />

9.26.<strong>2024</strong><br />

12.17.<strong>2024</strong><br />

2.27.<strong>2025</strong><br />

4.24.<strong>2025</strong><br />

9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.<br />

26


Are you interested in becoming a superintendent,<br />

but not sure where to start? Don't miss this program<br />

designed to map out your path to the superintendency.<br />

The Aspiring Superintendents Workshop connects you with like-minded individuals to<br />

foster engaging discussions led by our experienced <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> and KASB Leadership<br />

Staff. Gain exclusive insights and practical guidance to equip yourself for the demanding,<br />

yet rewarding role of a superintendent.<br />

CONTENT<br />

Sessions will focus on the Six<br />

Domains of Effective<br />

Leadership. Throughout the<br />

program, participants will<br />

also explore:<br />

Practical Strategies<br />

Networking<br />

Opportunities<br />

Board Relationships<br />

Mission and Vision<br />

Alignment<br />

Team Leadership<br />

Stakeholder<br />

Communication<br />

Interview Skills and<br />

Career Development<br />

First 100 Days Planning<br />

Continuous Learning and<br />

Growth<br />

TARGET<br />

AUDIENCE<br />

Educational Leaders<br />

interested in pursuing a<br />

superintendent position<br />

COST<br />

$750 Per Participant<br />

Cost includes two 2-Day<br />

in-person meetings, as<br />

well as 6 Zoom sessions<br />

Lunch and Dinner will<br />

be provided for inperson<br />

dates<br />

DATES &<br />

LOCATIONS<br />

In Person<br />

July 17-18, <strong>2024</strong><br />

Bishop Center,<br />

Topeka, KS<br />

January 8-9, <strong>2025</strong><br />

KASB Building,<br />

Topeka, KS<br />

Zoom - 1:00-2:00 p.m.<br />

August 14, <strong>2024</strong><br />

September 18, <strong>2024</strong><br />

October 16, <strong>2024</strong><br />

November 20, <strong>2024</strong><br />

December 18, <strong>2024</strong><br />

January 15, <strong>2025</strong><br />

Information and registration<br />

27


DEVELOPING<br />

LEADERSHIP<br />

LEARN FROM<br />

LEADERS<br />

WHO’S<br />

NEXT<br />

Equipping potential and<br />

current leaders with the<br />

skills needed to lead<br />

Western <strong>Kansas</strong> districts<br />

into the future, ensuring<br />

rural <strong>Kansas</strong> has trained<br />

leaders at the ready to<br />

meet the leadership<br />

demands of our<br />

changing world.<br />

Sessions will meet in<br />

Garden City, KS. WKLA is<br />

a collaborative effort<br />

between Southwest<br />

Plains Regional Service<br />

Center, <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong>, and<br />

KASB.<br />

Superintendents are<br />

encouraged to nominate<br />

teacher and building<br />

leaders whom you<br />

believe, with support, are<br />

ready to step into larger<br />

leadership roles.<br />

NOMINATIONS ARE DUE BY AUGUST 15, <strong>2024</strong>.<br />

28<br />

Cohort will be selected from<br />

applications to attend five sessions.<br />

$500 tuition reimbursed to districts<br />

using KASB for superintendent search.


I N S P I R I N G S T U D E N T S T O S T A Y<br />

A N D T H R I V E I N W E S T E R N K A N S A S<br />

WESTERN<br />

KANSAS CAREER<br />

SHOWCASES<br />

<strong>2024</strong>-<strong>2025</strong> SHOWCASES<br />

September 12 -<br />

Ag Showcase - Montezuma<br />

Community Building<br />

October 17 –<br />

Multi-Career Showcase - Scott City<br />

October 31 –<br />

Multi – Career Showcase - Minneola<br />

November 14 -<br />

Business and Technology Showcase<br />

- Dodge City Civic Center<br />

December 12 -<br />

Education Showcase - SWPRSC<br />

February 6 -<br />

Healthcare Showcase - Garden City<br />

Fairgrounds<br />

February 20 –<br />

Multi-Career Showcase - Liberal<br />

April 2 –<br />

City/County Essential Career’s<br />

Showcase – Garden City<br />

ABOUT US<br />

We seek to create a system of career<br />

interactions between students, parents,<br />

school districts, business, and industry in<br />

Western <strong>Kansas</strong> in an effort to support<br />

students in staying in our Western <strong>Kansas</strong><br />

communities.<br />

PROJECT GOALS<br />

Build relationships with schools,<br />

students, business, and community<br />

Grow rural workforce retention<br />

Build a responsive workforce<br />

Job shadowing, internships, and<br />

apprenticeships<br />

Teach uncommon leadership and build<br />

student leadership<br />

MORE INFORMATION:<br />

620-353-9702<br />

JCOLES3311@GMAIL.COM<br />

WWW.STARTHERESTAYHERE.ORG<br />

2023-<strong>2024</strong><br />

HIGHLIGHTS<br />

29<br />

7 SHOWCASES<br />

1000+ STUDENTS ATTENDED<br />

30+ SCHOOL DISTRICTS<br />

REPRESENTED<br />

10-12 BUSINESSES/SHOWCASE<br />

3-5 COLLEGES/SHOWCASE


START HERE<br />

STAY HERE<br />

Strengthening Communities<br />

through Leadership and<br />

Partnership<br />

Work to create the Western <strong>Kansas</strong> Career Showcases (WKCS) <strong>Program</strong> began all the<br />

way back in February of 2016 under the leadership of Director Joe Coles. While the<br />

program has grown and advanced, the intention has remained clear from the<br />

start.This program focuses on connecting students with businesses, industry, and<br />

educational partners across Western <strong>Kansas</strong> so that students can learn about<br />

careers available within their own communities as part of a ‘start here, stay here’<br />

initiative. The goal of the project has always been to create partnerships with young<br />

adults and local organizations to explore career opportunities, build connections,<br />

and encourage young adults to remain in Western <strong>Kansas</strong>. The goals for the program<br />

include the following:<br />

Build trusting relationships with schools, students, businesses, and<br />

communities.<br />

Encourage young people to remain in our rural areas or facilitate them in<br />

returning to Western <strong>Kansas</strong>.<br />

Develop a workforce responsive to the needs of our rural area industries.<br />

Collaborate with rural area business/industry and professional educators to<br />

provide support and interaction via job shadowing, internships, and<br />

apprenticeships.<br />

Teach and expect leadership, teamwork, accountability, and essential skills at<br />

our showcases.<br />

30


Over the course of the program’s first two school years with student-led showcases<br />

(2021/2022 and 2022/2023), the program achieved the following:<br />

Over 800 students and professional educators from 26 different school districts<br />

attended the rural showcases;<br />

Over 30 businesses and professional organizations participated in the<br />

showcases;<br />

6 showcases were held: the first was with school counselors to onboard them to<br />

the program and the next five were for students to explore various career fields;;<br />

Showcases focused on 4 Career Fields: Agriculture, Education,<br />

Technical/Vocational, and HealthCare and Business Entrepreneurship;<br />

3 area community colleges participated in the showcases.<br />

Through participation in these showcases, students have the opportunity to learn<br />

more about themselves, research local career/education options, engage with local<br />

businesses, and create a strategic plan to assist them in reaching their professional<br />

goals.<br />

During the 2023-<strong>2024</strong> school year, seven showcases were planned to cover the<br />

following career paths: Agriculture/Beef Industry, Business/Technology,<br />

Educational, Healthcare, City/County Essentials and two multi career paths. This<br />

school year, over 1000 students attended at least one showcase, approximately 30<br />

school districts participated, and at least 10 – 12 businesses were present at each<br />

showcase, while 3 to 5 higher educational institutions attended every showcase.<br />

Given the incredible success of this program in just its first three years, we wanted<br />

to highlight the leaders who are making this work possible. Note, <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong><br />

became a direct partner in this program during the 2021-2022 school year.<br />

31


OUR<br />

MISSION<br />

The mission of the <strong>Kansas</strong> School<br />

Superintendents’ Association is to serve<br />

the growth, development and general<br />

encouragement of the <strong>Kansas</strong> System of<br />

Education.<br />

OUR<br />

VISION<br />

The <strong>Kansas</strong> School Superintendents<br />

Association was established to support<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> School District Leadership in<br />

three areas: Professional Development,<br />

Communication and Advocacy.<br />

Learn more<br />

about KSSA here<br />

UPCOMING EVENTS<br />

Board Meeting - September 11, <strong>2024</strong> (Olathe)<br />

Meeting Dates<br />

<strong>2024</strong>-<strong>2025</strong><br />

Council of Superintendents - September 11, <strong>2024</strong> (Olathe)<br />

Emerging Leadership Development for Supts - September 18-19, <strong>2024</strong> (Topeka)<br />

Emerging Leadership Development for Supts - October 16, <strong>2024</strong><br />

Council of Superintendents - October 23, <strong>2024</strong> (Wichita)<br />

Superintendent of the Year Gala - November 14, <strong>2024</strong> (Wichita)<br />

32


KANSAS PRINCIPAL’S<br />

CONFERENCE<br />

Save the Date:<br />

November 6-7, <strong>2024</strong><br />

WHAT WE HEARD ABOUT THE 2023<br />

PRINCIPAL’S CONFERENCE:<br />

This was the best professional<br />

development I have received in a long<br />

time. I appreciated learning and<br />

networking alongside peers with the<br />

same responsibilities. The information<br />

was practical and useful!<br />

OVERALL, THE SURVEY SAID...<br />

4.4/5<br />

MEETING DATES <strong>2024</strong>-25<br />

UPCOMING:<br />

New Principals Workshop - July 24, <strong>2024</strong> (Goddard)<br />

New Principals Workshop - August 1, <strong>2024</strong> (Topeka)<br />

Board of Directors - September 20, <strong>2024</strong> (Topeka)<br />

Secretary’s Workshop - October 2, <strong>2024</strong> (Wichita)<br />

Board of Directors - October 18, <strong>2024</strong> (Topeka)<br />

Principal’s Conference - November 6-7, <strong>2024</strong> (Wichita)<br />

LEARN MORE<br />

ABOUT KPA HERE<br />

@KSPrincipals<br />

KSPrincipals<br />

33


To be the voice of special education, to actively provide mentoring and<br />

support for leaders, and to advance the profession through policy and<br />

practice.<br />

Save the Date:<br />

KASEA WINTER CONFERENCE - FEBRUARY <strong>2024</strong><br />

January 30-31, <strong>2025</strong><br />

<strong>2024</strong>-<strong>2025</strong><br />

Calendar of Events<br />

CONNECTING WITH KASEA - VIRTUAL<br />

9/11/24 from 12:00-1:00 pm<br />

11/21/24 from 12:00-1:00 pm<br />

4/16/25 from 12:00-1:00 pm<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong> Association<br />

of Special Education<br />

Administrators<br />

34


Our mission is to create an atmosphere of public trust and<br />

understanding by leading, counseling and influencing attitudes and<br />

behaviors in support of <strong>Kansas</strong> public education. Our members<br />

continue a long legacy of best practices in strategic communications<br />

and support of the great public schools and education leaders across<br />

our state.<br />

LEARN MORE ABOUT<br />

KANSPRA HERE:<br />

35


INTRODUCING<br />

THE NEWEST<br />

ORGANIZATION UNDER<br />

THE <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

UMBRELLA:<br />

KADPF<br />

https://kadpf.org/<br />

WHAT A KADPF MEMBERSHIP<br />

CAN DO FOR YOU:<br />

Times have changed drastically<br />

since the inception of KADPF. With<br />

New<br />

the changing times, networking<br />

with each other is even more<br />

important now than it was in the<br />

1950’s when the organization was<br />

established.<br />

KADPF is a strong organization<br />

that has a lot to offer your team.<br />

Regardless of the size of your<br />

educational facility, we all face<br />

similar issues. KADPF offers us the<br />

opportunity to learn from each<br />

other’s mistakes and share<br />

successful stories.<br />

36


<strong>Kansas</strong><br />

Association of<br />

School<br />

Business<br />

Officers<br />

Learn more about staying<br />

connected with KASBO here:<br />

How to Engage<br />

with KILA<br />

KANSAS<br />

INSTRUCTIONAL<br />

LEADERS<br />

ASSOCIATION<br />

*New website coming soon!<br />

*Formerly KASCD<br />

37


Executive Director<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I have spent the last 34 years working in education, serving as a<br />

teacher, athletic director, principal, organizational president, and<br />

executive director. During the last nine years, I have served <strong>Kansas</strong><br />

Education as the Executive Director for the United School<br />

Administrators of <strong>Kansas</strong> and the <strong>Kansas</strong> School Superintendents<br />

Association (KSSA).<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

My role is to ensure that <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> is able to actualize our vision of<br />

World Class Leadership, World Class Student Success.<br />

GABUIE@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

Having visited dozens if not hundreds of schools in <strong>Kansas</strong>, the United<br />

States, and places like Finland, China, and the Dominican Republic, I<br />

know what it takes to be a World Class Leader. My job, and the job of<br />

<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong>, is to make sure every <strong>Kansas</strong> leader has the supports<br />

they need to ensure World Class Student Success here in <strong>Kansas</strong>.<br />

Associate Executive Director<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I spent 35 years in buildings and districts. I spent nine years as a<br />

mathematics teacher, two years as Athletic Director/Assistant<br />

Principal, 18 years as Building Principal, and six years as<br />

Superintendent.<br />

After I finished my six years as Superintendent, I started to work for<br />

United School Administrators of <strong>Kansas</strong>.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

My role at <strong>USA</strong> <strong>Kansas</strong> is to support our programs in reaching our<br />

vision of World Class Leadership, World Class Student Success. From<br />

the many programs I work with, Advocacy, Under the Umbrella,<br />

Coaching, and the Uniting Leaders Conference are the main areas of<br />

emphasis.<br />

JHENN@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

38


Assistant Executive Director for Professional Learning<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I began my career as a primary looping teacher and spent 7 years in<br />

this role teaching 1st and 2nd grade. I then transitioned to the role of<br />

an instructional coach in a K-4 building. I was fortunate to then spend<br />

the next 13 years as an intermediate and elementary building level<br />

principal before joining <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> as the Director of Professional<br />

Development.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

My role at <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> is all things professional learning related! I get<br />

to design the content for the majority of our workshop series, facilitate<br />

these series across the state, and connect leaders over powerful<br />

content.<br />

JGRIFFIN@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

Individual leadership coaching, customized professional development<br />

for districts’ leadership teams are some of the extras I do as well!<br />

Director of Principal Leadership and<br />

Executive Director of the <strong>Kansas</strong> Principals Association<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I have been in education for 33 years. I began as a Language Arts<br />

teacher and athletic coach. I then moved to an instructional<br />

facilitator, and then spent 23 years in administration. I have been a<br />

member of the <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> staff since July of 2021.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

I am part of a team that designs and implements programs to enhance<br />

the professional development of principals statewide. We offer expert<br />

guidance on School Leadership, we work collaboratively with key<br />

stakeholders, we advocate for effective policies, and we champion the<br />

importance of strong leadership in schools.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT KPA<br />

I work to make a significant impact on the professional growth and<br />

development of principals in the state of <strong>Kansas</strong>. I am passionate<br />

about School Leadership, and I am committed to supporting principals<br />

in their important work and exemplifying the mission of the <strong>Kansas</strong><br />

Principal’s Association.<br />

39<br />

CLEDY@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566


Business Manager<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I have been with <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> for 35 years, and I<br />

have served as the business manager for the past<br />

9 years.<br />

KTORREZ@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

My role is to manage the finances for <strong>USA</strong>-<br />

<strong>Kansas</strong>. This includes managing finances for all<br />

seven member associations under the <strong>USA</strong>-KS<br />

umbrella, and the <strong>USA</strong>-KS Leadership<br />

Foundation.<br />

Director of Marketing and Communications<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I graduated from the University of <strong>Kansas</strong> in 2010 with a degree in<br />

Political Science and International Studies.<br />

I joined the staff of <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> in February 2016 as an<br />

Administrative Assistant, then transitioned to Communications<br />

Specialist, and now the Director of Marketing and Communications.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

As the Director of Marketing and Communications, I have a hand in<br />

all things communications related within <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong>, as well as<br />

many of the organizations under our umbrella.<br />

I manage websites, email communications, social media, marketing,<br />

and registration for our many excellent professional learning<br />

opportunities. I also layout and design our monthly magazine, Under<br />

the Umbrella.<br />

JCLARK@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

40


Operations Specialist<br />

SWARNOW@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I began my career as a legal transcriptionist for an EEO<br />

Discrimination firm and was also an office administrator at a family<br />

law practice before becoming the EEO Office Manager for a<br />

combined 12 years. In September of 2016, I joined <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> as an<br />

Administrative Assistant and gradually grew into my current position<br />

as Operations Specialist.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

I wear many hats to support <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong>, including all aspects of<br />

membership, database updates and entries, payment receipts, and<br />

vendor and sponsor support, especially when it comes to my favorite<br />

event of the year, our annual <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> Conference. For<br />

Conference, I coordinate the Vendor Showcase and several preconference<br />

events. Working with our members and business partners<br />

is a very key part of my job and one I thoroughly enjoy.<br />

Office and Outreach Coordinator<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I graduated from Baker University in 2019 with my Bachelor's<br />

Degree in Business Management/Marketing and Sports<br />

Administration. Post graduation I spent two years serving in roles<br />

centered around customer service and client-to-client<br />

communication. I joined <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> in May of 2021.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

I wear a variety of hats supporting a wide range of <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong><br />

events and initiatives. The most prominent of which include<br />

scheduling and coordinating all <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> events and activities,<br />

working with our incredible Corporate Partners, and ensuring<br />

everything behind the scenes is ready for all our programming.<br />

HCHINN@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

41


Impact and Advancement Specialist<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I spent my first five years in education teaching English and English<br />

as a Second Language. I then spent just over 5 years at KSDE doing<br />

ELA consulting, School Redesign, and finally Accreditation. I joined<br />

<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> in October 2023.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

My role at <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> is two parts:<br />

SPERRYMAN@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

1. Evaluate the impact of the programs and the work we do each day<br />

to achieve world class leadership and world class student<br />

success, and<br />

2. Use that data to advance the work of the organization and create<br />

impact at scale in <strong>Kansas</strong>!<br />

Director of Legislative Services<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I served as a Building Principal for over 20 years. After that, I was<br />

able to serve as a Superintendent for 10 years. I then became a<br />

Member of the <strong>Kansas</strong> House of Representatives for 2 terms. Now, I<br />

serve as <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong>’s lobbyist which I have done for 2 terms.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

Communicate with Legislators on key educational legislation<br />

regarding how legislation would impact <strong>Kansas</strong> schools.<br />

Communicate to <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> members about legislation under<br />

consideration and how it will affect the day to day operation of<br />

their school/district.<br />

Create weekly legislative reports during session, to share with<br />

<strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> members.<br />

Provide testimony to legislative committees on legislation under<br />

consideration.<br />

JKARLESKINT@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

42


Director of Executive Leadership<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

MSTESSMAN@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

I joined <strong>USA</strong>-<strong>Kansas</strong> in July of 2022 after a distinguished 34-year career in<br />

public education. I spent 29 years as a school administrator, including 22<br />

years as a superintendent across three diverse districts. My extensive<br />

experience spans 2A to 5A school classifications, with work impacting nearly<br />

every region of the state. Beyond my educational leadership and experience,<br />

I also bring expertise in executive coaching and strategic planning and a<br />

passion for public education.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

I serve as an executive coach, providing dedicated support to school<br />

administrators in their leadership roles. I guide districts through<br />

comprehensive strategic planning, facilitating action plans to achieve their<br />

strategic goals. Additionally, I support the development of school leaders<br />

through various programs, including the <strong>Kansas</strong> Emerging Leaders <strong>Program</strong>,<br />

the Aspiring Superintendents <strong>Program</strong>, the Elevate Leadership <strong>Program</strong>, and<br />

KELI. My primary goal is to foster the growth and success of educational<br />

leaders across the state!<br />

Assistant Director of Leadership and Learning<br />

MY BACKGROUND<br />

I started my career as a Middle School Reading and Teen Leadership<br />

Teacher near Houston, TX. After teaching there, I moved to <strong>Kansas</strong> where I<br />

joined the team at Southwest Plains Regional Service Center as an<br />

Education Consultant specializing in systems training, instructional<br />

coaching, and personal and skill development. Before joining the team at<br />

<strong>USA</strong> <strong>Kansas</strong>, I was a junior and senior high building leader at Cimarron High<br />

School.<br />

HOW I SUPPORT <strong>USA</strong>-KANSAS<br />

I serve as the Assistant Director of Leadership and Learning where I<br />

facilitate the professional development of principals in <strong>Kansas</strong> in<br />

collaboration with our leadership team. My responsibilities include leading<br />

training programs such as Elevate Leadership, KELI, and other professional<br />

development initiatives. Additionally, I assist principals in the building and<br />

implementation of chatbots to enhance their operational efficiency and<br />

support their professional endeavors.<br />

JWILSON@<strong>USA</strong>KANSAS.ORG<br />

785.232.6566<br />

43


44

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!