From the Podium
Edward J. Brophy
Director of Human Resources and Administrative Services
Northbrook School District 28
Creating the Future of Education Together
As I step into this role as President, I cannot help but think about the incredible responsibility—and opportunity—we share in shaping the next chapter of education. The future is not something that just arrives; we create it together through the choices we make and the communities we build.
Every school business official knows that education is about far more than balancing a budget or managing operations. We build conditions where students thrive, teachers can focus on their craft and communities take pride in their schools. The work we do today is laying the foundation for the next generation.
The future is not something we wait for—it is something we build together, decision by decision. Every challenge we face today is also a blueprint for tomorrow, and every leader we mentor ensures that the work continues long after us.
Looking ahead, the future of education will demand adaptability, creativity and collaboration. Technology is evolving at an incredible pace, demographics are shifting and communities are expecting schools to meet needs we might not have imagined a decade ago. This means we cannot only rely on what has worked in the past—we must also be willing to innovate and embrace change.
That is why I believe one of the most important responsibilities we have as leaders is to prepare those who will come after us. Investing in the growth of emerging leaders, sharing our deep wells of knowledge generously and creating opportunities for others to step up are what will keep our profession strong. None of us will have all the answers for what the future holds, but together, we can build systems and networks that are resilient enough to thrive no matter the challenge.
The challenge itself should be the engine that drives innovation forward. Many obstacles will be in the way of taking that next leap in education. Just a decade ago, our schools had never faced an event such as the COVID pandemic or accepted the new realities of AI. Today, we live in a world that has overcome both and are better for it. Embracing the challenge is half the battle and a key step in the journey.
As we move forward together, I hope that each of us remains committed to seeing ourselves not only as problem-solvers, but as future-builders. Every budget approved, every policy crafted, every program launched is more than a task checked off—it is a decision that ripples into tomorrow. There are many paths leading into the future of education that will require adaptability and fresh perspectives. If we learn to utilize the tools of today in a way that benefits many, we can make a great impact in
our schools.
I look forward to walking alongside each of you as we continue creating the future of education together.