Regional Conferences Sessions

E. Peoria Sessions

7:30am - 8:15am 

Registration &  Refreshments


8:15am - 8:35am 

Welcome & Opening


8:45am - 9:45am

Invest in Yourself—Ignite Others

Want to develop and motivate your team and others around you? Steer clear of the “do as I say not as I do” trap and join us at this session to learn about the role that self-care plays in our ability to effectively lead teams. We’ll also share strategies and techniques that can help reduce stress, increase happiness and improve our own performance so that by investing in ourselves we can ignite others toward ongoing success.

Speakers:
David Bein


Safety and Security: Where are we now?

Engage with a panel of seasoned experts as they delve into the dynamic landscape of school safety and security. Gain insights into the proactive measures undertaken by your peers, discover essential steps you should consider and explore the most efficient strategies to establish a secure learning environment without breaking the bank. Join the conversation with our experts as they guide you in fostering unity among your Board of Education, administration, and community, which are all committed to championing safe and nurturing educational spaces.

Speakers:
Jan Bush, Stephen Chassee, Todd Hannah and Kent Metzger

Collective Bargaining Update

The pandemic has ushered in a host of novel and complex challenges at the bargaining table. Join us as we delve into these issues and anticipate the road ahead for school districts gearing up for negotiations. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Karen Beverlin, C. Frazier Satterly, Andrew Walsh and Mick Willis


9:55am - 10:55am

Situational Leadership

As a leader, have you ever felt like you don't see eye to eye with an employee on what they need or what you expect? This is a common problem for leaders and can result in failure for the leader, the employee and most importantly - the task at hand. Explore the relationship between the amount of direction an employee needs or desires and the amount of support a leader must supply. Don't continue to be frustrated with the lack of productivity in your district – come and learn how to be a more effective leader who gets the most out of every employee.

Speakers:
Michael Jacoby

Two Issues and Four Solutions

This interactive session will focus on two issues - transportation driver shortages and the implications of teacher/support staff vacancies on pay and benefits. Once we have identified the issues we will work on creating a set of four solutions to each issue. Using a unique solution matrix activity, groups will discuss and develop four solutions to each issue. A summary of these solutions will then be sent to all session attendees following the conference. If you prefer a session with lots of dialogue and creative problem-solving, along with camaraderie, this session is for you.

Speakers:
Mike Curry and Linda Matkowksi

FMLA: Managing School Employee Leaves

Join this session to discuss implementation and management of FMLA leaves, with a focus on those issues most commonly impacting schools, such as: parental leaves, intermittent leave, adequate documentation and requests which school districts have recently been encountering more frequently. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Ellen Lueking


11:05am - 12:05pm

Update on School-Based Medicaid Revenue Programs and Cost Settlement Model

Illinois has recently introduced significant updates to its Medicaid claiming regulations within the school system. These changes encompass a financial framework that will impact Medicaid reimbursement across all schools in the state. Join us for an insightful session where we'll delve into the intricacies of the Annual Cost Settlement process and explore the diverse Medicaid funding sources. By participating, you'll gain valuable knowledge and tools to empower your district in optimizing Medicaid revenue to its fullest potential. View the presentation HERE

Speaker:
Laura Hughs and Kim Moore

Saving Big Through Preventative Maintenance and Loss Control

Navigating school district risk management demands finesse in crafting straightforward yet efficient processes to mitigate the risk of substantial losses. In today's landscape, where financial constraints, supply chain complexities and workforce limitations compound the challenges of returning to normal operations, this presentation emerges as a beacon of guidance. Delve into a wealth of insights encompassing loss prevention strategies, invaluable lessons gleaned from real incidents and the invaluable feedback from schools that have weathered unfortunate events. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Jonathan Wilson

Faith's Law - Implementation Issues You May be Facing

Since the enactment of Faith's Law on July 1st, schools have been tasked with conducting comprehensive employment history reviews concerning sexual misconduct for all newly hired employees and contractors who have direct contact with students. Now, two months into this transformative change, it's time to take stock of how your district is faring. Join our expert presenters as they provide an in-depth exploration of Faith's Law and, in collaboration with your valuable input, dive into the intricacies of its implementation. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Maryam Brotine, Kimberly Chambers and Charles Watkins


12:05pm - 12:50pm

Lunch


12:50pm - 1:50pm

Life of a Cyber Attack from the Eyes of the Superintendent and Tech Director

Discover how to effectively tackle the myriad of challenges that arise when you find yourself cut off from the digital world following a crippling Ransomware attack on your systems. Gain insights into managing the unexpected obstacles that accompany such a crisis and learn valuable strategies for reclaiming control and continuity in your technological landscape. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Emily Flack and Andy Johnson

Putting the Human in Human Resources

Teacher shortages and unsupportive climates cloud the joy of shaping future lives and generations. This session will focus on how educational leaders can create a culture of retention by valuing each employee's humanity in every interaction with HR, from hiring to discipline to benefits. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Phil Georgia and Jeff McHugh


2:00pm - 3:00pm

Under Attack: Protecting Your District from Cyber Threats and Natural Disasters

Join this discussion on protecting your critical systems and sensitive data from attacks. In this session, we will not only delve into proactive measures for fortifying your defenses but also provide essential guidance for navigating the turbulent waters during and after an attack or when natural disasters strike. Learn the roles and guidelines to combat these growing threats including real-world examples and how to rebound quickly. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Samual Hamra and Craig Williams


Evaluation, Feedback, and Misconduct, Oh My!

Embark on a journey down the yellow brick road with us to discover effective staff feedback techniques. We'll help you distinguish between disciplinary and evaluative incidents, leaving you with the wisdom that "there's no place like home" in managing your team.

Speakers:
Lindsay Jonas

Effingham Sessions

7:30am - 8:15am 

Registration &  Refreshments


8:15am - 8:35am 

Welcome & Opening


8:45am - 9:45am

Under Attack: Protecting Your District from Cyber Threats and Natural Disasters

Join this discussion on protecting your critical systems and sensitive data from attacks. In this session, we will not only delve into proactive measures for fortifying your defenses but also provide essential guidance for navigating the turbulent waters during and after an attack or when natural disasters strike. Learn the roles and guidelines to combat these growing threats including real-world examples and how to rebound quickly. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Samual Hamra and Craig Williams

Saving Big Through Preventative Maintenance and Loss Control

Navigating school district risk management demands finesse in crafting straightforward yet efficient processes to mitigate the risk of substantial losses. In today's landscape, where financial constraints, supply chain complexities and workforce limitations compound the challenges of returning to normal operations, this presentation emerges as a beacon of guidance. Delve into a wealth of insights encompassing loss prevention strategies, invaluable lessons gleaned from real incidents and the invaluable feedback from schools that have weathered unfortunate events. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Jonathan Wilson


Putting the Human in Human Resources

Teacher shortages and unsupportive climates cloud the joy of shaping future lives and generations. This session will focus on how educational leaders can create a culture of retention by valuing each employee's humanity in every interaction with HR, from hiring to discipline to benefits. View the presentation HERE

Speaker:
Phil Georgia and Jeff McHugh



9:55am - 10:55am

Beyond the Desktop: Intro Course for Your Masters in School Business Administration

While we may excel in the realm of spreadsheets and finance software, the transition to managing and leading people can pose a different set of challenges. Stepping away from your desk, are you as proficient in communication and project planning? Join us for a transformative 60-minute class in School Business Administration where we will engage in a reflective exploration of the essential skills required to excel in these critical areas of leadership and management. View presentation HERE

Speakers:
Frank Williams

Safety and Security: Where are we now?

Engage with a panel of seasoned experts as they delve into the dynamic landscape of school safety and security. Gain insights into the proactive measures undertaken by your peers, discover essential steps you should consider and explore the most efficient strategies to establish a secure learning environment without breaking the bank. Join the conversation with our experts as they guide you in fostering unity among your Board of Education, administration, and community, which are all committed to championing safe and nurturing educational spaces.

Speakers:
Jan Bush, Stephen Chassee, Todd Hannah and Kent Metzger

Faith's Law - Implementation Issues You May be Facing

Since the enactment of Faith's Law on July 1st, schools have been tasked with conducting comprehensive employment history reviews concerning sexual misconduct for all newly hired employees and contractors who have direct contact with students. Now, two months into this transformative change, it's time to take stock of how your district is faring. Join our expert presenters as they provide an in-depth exploration of Faith's Law and, in collaboration with your valuable input, dive into the intricacies of its implementation. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Maryam Brotine, Kimberly Chambers and Charles Watkins


11:05am - 12:05pm

Update on School-Based Medicaid Revenue Programs and Cost Settlement Model

Illinois has recently introduced significant updates to its Medicaid claiming regulations within the school system. These changes encompass a financial framework that will impact Medicaid reimbursement across all schools in the state. Join us for an insightful session where we'll delve into the intricacies of the Annual Cost Settlement process and explore the diverse Medicaid funding sources. By participating, you'll gain valuable knowledge and tools to empower your district in optimizing Medicaid revenue to its fullest potential. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Laura Hughs and Kim Moore

FMLA: Managing School Employee Leaves

Join this session to discuss implementation and management of FMLA leaves, with a focus on those issues most commonly impacting schools, such as: parental leaves, intermittent leave, adequate documentation and requests which school districts have recently been encountering more frequently. View the presentation HERE

Speaker:
Ellen Lueking



12:05pm - 12:50pm

Lunch


12:50pm - 1:50pm

Life of a Cyber Attack from the Eyes of the Superintendent and Tech Director

Discover how to effectively tackle the myriad of challenges that arise when you find yourself cut off from the digital world following a crippling Ransomware attack on your systems. Gain insights into managing the unexpected obstacles that accompany such a crisis and learn valuable strategies for reclaiming control and continuity in your technological landscape. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Emily Flach and Andy Johnson

Two Issues and Four Solutions

This interactive session will focus on two issues - transportation driver shortages and the implications of teacher/support staff vacancies on pay and benefits. Once we have identified the issues we will work on creating a set of four solutions to each issue. Using a unique solution matrix activity, groups will discuss and develop four solutions to each issue. A summary of these solutions will then be sent to all session attendees following the conference. If you prefer a session with lots of dialogue and creative problem-solving, along with camaraderie, this session is for you.

Speakers:
Craig Collins, Linda Matkowski


2:00pm - 3:00pm

Situational Leadership

As a leader, have you ever felt like you don't see eye to eye with an employee on what they need or what you expect? This is a common problem for leaders and can result in failure for the leader, the employee and most importantly - the task at hand. Explore the relationship between the amount of direction an employee needs or desires and the amount of support a leader must supply. Don't continue to be frustrated with the lack of productivity in your district – come and learn how to be a more effective leader who gets the most out of every employee.

Speaker:
Mike Jacoby

Collective Bargaining Update

The pandemic has ushered in a host of novel and complex challenges at the bargaining table. Join us as we delve into these issues and anticipate the road ahead for school districts gearing up for negotiations. View the presentation HERE

Speakers:
Janiece Blake, Shane Jones and Linda Matkowski