October 28, 2015
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Mission Statement:
To build the capacity of educational leaders to enhance
 the quality of teaching and learning.

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IL ASCD NEWS
CHECK OUT IL ASCD revised website at  www.illinoisascd.org
Daylight Saving Time Ends-Fall Back one hour Nov 1
Veterans Day - Nov 11
American Education Week Nov 16 - 20 
Come help us celebrate the life of former ILASCD President, Allan Walter Dornseif,
4-14-31 to 7-25-15.  Husband, father/grandfather, friend & colleague.  Allan's Family invites You
Nov 7, 2015, Open House 12:30 pm - 4 pm.  Please join us!  Appetizers and drinks.  94 West Restaurant, 15410 S 94th Ave, Orland Park, IL  60462.  Onsite free parking.  RSVP  Include your name and number of guests attending.  RSVP by Oct 28 TODAY at wills727@comcast.net.

Schools worldwide will have access to a free, streaming concert on Oct. 30, led by classroom entertainer Dave Ruch. The concert, billed as the "biggest K-5 singalong ever," has registrations in 37 states and countries including Saudi Arabia. eSchool News

American Education Week-November 16-20-presents all Americans with a wonderful opportunity to celebrate public education and honor individuals who are making a difference in ensuring that every child receives a quality education. This year's theme is "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility," and will be reflected in special observances each day of the weeklong celebration. For more information, click here.


Check out our Conferences/Workshops section and choose an opportunity for professional development!   

ASCD congratulates 2014 Affiliate Overall Excellence Award recipient Illinois ASCD. ASCD annually recognizes affiliates to honor their exemplary service to the education community.

IL ASCD Illinois Office
P.O. Box 852
Normal, IL 61761

Please send me good news about your school!  Anyone taking a new position for next school year or retiring this year, please let me know!   Glenna Adams, Editor gladams@wideopenwest.com 
 
Renee Phillips, Administrative Assistant, reneephillips@mac.com, phone: 309-820-9100. 
Ryan Nevius, Assistant Director, rcneviu@me.com, phone: 618-203-3993.
Katie McKay-Phillips, Social Media & Events, kathrynmckay20@gmail.com 
 
 
Are you already on Facebook?  Check out and LIKE the ILASCD Facebook page  
IL ASCD is now on Facebook!  Visit us at IL ASCD.
  
  
 
 
IL ASCD has a Twitter channel!  Stay current at IL ASCD.      
 
  
 
miller_guidance 
The Common Core State Standards, Teacher Evaluation Systems, Race to the Top funding....Is your system ready?
Built on leading scientific research the Miller Guidance System puts into practice the theoretical underpinnings of federal school reform initiatives.  Created and refined by practitioners, in a variety of settings our practical tools and processes provide the blueprint for school improvement. Is your system ready?
Click below to see a video of what your colleagues are saying about Miller Guidance!
www.millerguidance.com 866-364-9535
ASCD News 
ASCD's Nominations Committee is seeking individuals to apply to run for a position on the ASCD Board of Directors in 2016. The application process is now open and completed applications are due by Nov. 15, 2015. Visit www.ascd.org/nominations for information on qualifications for office and the time commitment involved (Board members serve four-year terms). Please contact ASCD's governance unit at governance@ascd.org with any questions.

From the classroom to the U.S. Department of Education and now to ASCD, Deb Delisle has spent her career devoted to educators and the work that they do each day to support students. In this interview with Education Update, ASCD's CEO and executive director talks about the greatest strengths of public education, her bold prediction for education in the next five years, a student who changed her perspective on life, and much more.

Schools worldwide will have access to a free, streaming concert on Oct. 30, led by classroom entertainer Dave Ruch. The concert, billed as the "biggest K-5 singalong ever," has registrations in 37 states and countries, including Saudi Arabia.eSchool News

Essential questions aren't just for classroom and student learning; they can also be used for adult learning. In this new post on Inservice, Andrew Miller explains how open-ended, provocative and intriguing essential questions can provide an excellent framework for exploring teacher and schoolwide learning. Miller concludes that essential questions are not only good for modeling great learning but also empowering all stakeholders in education to take action and nurture the whole child.

Ten Articles Worth Reading
ASCD members can access a complete online library of articles from Education Update, ASCD's official member newsletter. Whether you missed a recent issue or want to share an interesting article with friends, you can visit www.ascd.org/educationupdate to peruse the archives dating all the way back to 1993. The editorial staff recently went through and picked out a list of 10 reader favorites from recent years.  Read them here.

In this Educational Leadership article, Rick Wormeli writes, "Teachers who deny the emotional elements of teaching and learning can become exhausted from ceaseless confrontations with students' emotional states, often blaming their personal stress and students' failure to learn on students' lack of motivation or maturity." He explains, though, that it doesn't have to be this way. Borrowing and modifying the premise from Stephen Covey (1989), Wormeli explores the seven habits of highly affective teachers. 
 
LILA: Where Educators Become Advocates
Attend ASCD's 2016 Leadership Institute for Legislative Advocacy (LILA) -- happening January 24-26, 2016, in Washington, D.C. -- to hear from education policy expert and whole child champion Paul Reville, meaningfully collaborate with other civic-minded educators, build your advocacy skills, and meet with your federal lawmakers to discuss key education issues in your community. Visit www.ascd.org/lila for more information and register by the end of October for a discounted early bird rate! Learn more.

"Admitting we sometimes create situations that our students experience as negative can move us away from blame-the-victim questions like, 'What's wrong with this kid?' to far more powerful inquiries like, 'What might I be doing that contributes to this student's decision to misbehave?'," writes Eric Toshalis in this Educational Leadership article. Toshalis lists five practices that may unknowingly cause misbehavior by triggering students' negative emotions and discusses how to avoid these provocations.

Cambridge Educational ServicesCambridge has been working with members of ASCD for nearly 25 years providing data-informed lesson plans and supplemental materials to increase ACT/ASPIRE/PSAT/WorkKeys/GED test scores while mastering skills aligned with College Readiness and common core standards.
 
Schools select after-school, semester-long or alongside-the-curriculum models using their own teachers or ours. Professional development, Parent Admission and Student Motivation workshops assist with systemic efforts for greater student achievement.

Contact Mary Parks at 800-444-4373 ext. 226, 847-204-0502(C), or MParks@CambridgeEd.com for additional information.
Advocacy / Governance
IL ASCD's purpose is to inform.  We encourage you to be an informed, involved educator. Watch local, state, and national news for most current events.
 
ASCD has released its first Global Policy Agenda, which makes recommendations to promote the success of students, educators, schools and communities worldwide. The specific global recommendations include establishing a multimetric accountability system, reducing the reliance on standardized testing, promoting a whole child education, and honoring and supporting the education profession. View the agenda. 

The latest issue of Policy Priorities examines the vocabulary that various stakeholders -- including communities, administrators, teachers, parents and students -- use to discuss a whole child approach to education. It reviews similarities and differences among common terms, provides definitions used by specific educational associations, and calls for building a whole-child lexicon that all stakeholders can use -- the aim is to build a vocabulary that is practical, that everyone can use.

ASCD has released updated Whole Child Snapshots for each of the 50 U.S. states to display the progress our nation has made in supporting the whole child as well as the areas where negative trends have continued. The snapshots encompass various stages of a child's development, from prekindergarten through postsecondary education and provide a picture of child success and well-being that extends beyond academic performance.

ASCD's Whole Child Initiative in Illinois
Launched in 2007 ASCD's Whole Child Initiative is an effort to change the conversation about education from a focus on narrowly defined academic achievement to one that promotes the long term development and success of children.  Illinois ASCD supports this premise.

Are you receiving the ASCD Whole Child Newsletter?  Sign up on http://www.wholechildeducation.org  to receive this biweekly free resource and stay up to date on policies and practices, data, strategies, and tools to help you ensure that each child in your community is healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged.  In addition to this information from ASCD, we are running a series on the Whole Child within our Illinois ASCD Newsletter.  To read the latest edition of our newsletter, visit http://publications.catstonepress.com/i/566315-fall-2015 

In 2012, Illinois Legislature Declared March to be "Whole Child Month."
With the help of Illinois ASCD members, we continue to keep the names of ASCD and IL ASCD in the minds of Illinois legislators as the go-to organization on learning.  They helped us enable the passage of the Whole Child Resolution in Illinois in both houses on March 9, 2012.  As the years progress, our members will continue to keep in touch with our legislators and feel that we have had a say in helping to promote strong educational issues in our state.  Copies of these resolutions can be found below:

LILA: Where Educators Become Advocates
Sign up for ASCD's  2016 Leadership Institute for Legislative Advocacy-happening January 24-26 in Washington, D.C.-to hear from education policy expert and whole child champion Paul Reville, collaborate with other civic-minded educators, and learn to amplify your advocacy voice. Register by October 31 for a discounted early-bird rate. Visit www.ascd.org/lila for more information.

Illinois Education News
 
2015-2016 Illinois Teacher of the Year
The Illinois State Board of Education named Kim Thomas, a math teacher at Woodruff Career and Technical Center, the 2015-2016 Illinois Teacher of the Year. One of 10 finalists, Thomas was announced as this year's top educator during Saturday night's 41st annual Those Who Excel/Illinois Teacher of the Year banquet in Normal.

New Contract Lowers Fees for 'Bright Directions' 529 College Savings Program
Families saving for college will benefit from changes to the contract governing the state's Bright Directions 529 college savings plan.  The newly negotiated contract eliminates a $10 set-up fee and $3 quarterly maintenance fee for families saving for college through Bright Directions, which means more investment dollars will go to college savings. Management fees also will be slashed by 43 percent. More than 104,000 accounts will benefit from the new terms, which take effect Nov. 15. Independent rating agencies recognize Bright Directions as a solid investment with a competitive price that offers 55 investment options.

ISBE To Seek Feedback On PARCC Course-Based Assessments
In the most recent Superintendent's Weekly Message, Dr. Smith stated that ISBE would be creating a plan to respond to requests to make adjustments to course-based assessment selections from last year. A process is being finalized to allow districts to make requests to use course-based data that best supports their current systems to achieve higher outcomes.

ISBE Hot Topics
ISBE To Host Budget Hearings
The State Board of Education will host budget hearings to take testimony on individual line items as well as General State Aid. Participants that wish to testify, or submit information about budget testimony must submit  this form.
  • Thursday, November 12 - 4-6 p.m. - Granite City High School Atrium, 3101 Madison Ave.
  • Friday, November 20 - Following the ISBE Board Meeting - Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph St., Conference Room 16-503, Chicago
Click this link for a pdf listing of all House and Senate PK-12 committees. 

Bill Text/Status: Illinois General Assembly www.ilga.gov. Click on Dashboard.    
  
Federal Education News
 
Secretary Duncan announced that ASCD will join the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and the U.S. Department of Education as the third partner in Teach to Lead, which focuses on expanding opportunities for teacher leadership in ways that enhance student learning and make it possible for teachers to stay in the classroom while leading in the profession. ASCD will be the lead partner in the development of new Teacher Impact Grants.  

Will New Education Dept. Leader Focus on School Desegregation?
Incoming US Department of Education Secretary John King may encourage school desegregation during his tenure, according to predictions from several lawyers, activists and researchers. The predictions are based, in part, on King's decision as New York's education commissioner to use federal funds to help develop more diverse student populations. The Washington Post 

Federal Law Expands Definition of STEM
The STEM Education Act of 2015 was signed into law last week. It incorporates computer science into the breath of science, technology, engineering and math initiatives that can be funded and supported by the government. The law also directs the National Science Foundation to continue awarding funds to extracurricular STEM-education programs. Education Week Teacher

U S Department of Education
On October 28, NAGB and the Department's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) will release "The Nation's Report Card: 2015 Mathematics and Reading,"detailing fourth- and eighth-grade students' NAEP assessment performance in all 50 states and 21 urban districts.  An  in-person event in Washington, D.C., and webcast will feature panelists talking about score and achievement gap changes over time and potential implications of the data for states and districts.

Revised Policy Could Affect Dual Enrollment in 19 States
Educators who teach dual-enrollment courses will be required, under a policy revision by the Higher Learning Commission, to hold a master's degree in the subject they are teaching or earn 18 graduate credits. Some say the policy, which is expected to take effect in 2017, could jeopardize dual-enrollment programs in 19 states. Education Week

President Barack Obama recently announced the 1 Million Strong initiative, which supports expanding the number of K-12 students in the US studying the Mandarin language to 1 million by 2020. In his announcement, Obama said the effort is meant to strengthen ties between the US and China. The Hill
 
Blue Ribbon Schools Named
Via a special congratulatory video, the Secretary announced 335 schools as 2015 National Blue Ribbon Schools. This program honors public and private elementary, middle, and high schools where students perform at the highest levels or where progress is being made on closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. 
Chief State School Officers nominate public schools. The Council for American Private Education nominates private schools.  All schools will be honored at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., November 9 and 10. In its 33-year history, the program has bestowed this coveted award on more than 8,000 schools.  (Note: Full applications, brief descriptions, and photographs of the schools are posted here.)

Free-college Supporters Mull Adding Student Work Requirements
As the idea of providing free college tuition to many students gains popularity in political circles, some leaders are proposing that students be required to work while in college. Some state aid programs already require students to work, and research shows higher completion rates among students who work between 10 and 15 hours a week. InsideHigherEd.com

First Lady to Announce New Support for Higher Education
Michelle Obama is expected to announce BetterMakeRoom.org  -- a new website designed to help students pursue higher education. Students will have access to details about the SAT and ACT, federal financial aid and applying to college.The Associated Press, Chicago Tribune

ASCD Educator Advocates: www.educatoradvocates.org  
ASCD Legislative Agenda: www.ascd.org/legislativeagenda  
ASCD Policy Points: www.ascd.org/publicpolicy 

Follow news from ED at

To reach Senator Mark Kirk:  Chicago 312-886-3506, in Springfield 217-492-5089, in Washington DC 202-224-2854, by email at Senator@Kirk.Senate.gov. You can also contact Sen. Kirk's outreach person, Randy Pollard at gop2525@gmail.com or randy_pollard@kirk.senate.gov. 217-492-5089.   

To reach Senator Dick Durbin:  Chicago 312-358-4952, in Springfield 217-492-4062, in Carbondale 618-351-1122, in Washington DC 202-224-2152, by email at  www.durbin.senate.gov/contact.cfm.You can also contact Sen. Durbin's outreach person, Justin Cajindos, 525 S. 8th Street, Springfield, IL 62703, Phone: (217) 492-4062. E-Mail:Justin_Cajindos@durbin.senate.gov   
Conferences / Workshops
Please note that most workshops/conferences close registration one week prior to the event.  The last day to register is on the registration form.

Successful Assessment 101:  Everything You Need to Know about Tests in a Standards-Based Learning Environment
ILASCD presents Video Workshops for use in Department meetings, Faculty meetings, PLC teams, college classes, parent meetings, Board of Education meetings, grade-level meetings, individual PD.
Not webinars, but live-capture presentations defining and exploring how testing in standards-based learning environments leads to successful growth model attainment.  Each video begins with definitions of the tests in the area being covered. Detailed information about their impact on the learning in classrooms will be provided. Each video allows break times within the 30-45 minute time period for discussion by the viewing group under the leadership of the local host (principal, professor, department chair, PLC leader, etc.).  Each module is $69. What's Included:
  • Downloadable HD Videos
  • Facilitator Directions
  • Participant Handouts
  • PowerPoint Slides
Module Descriptions
  • Module 1: Overview of Assessment Types
  • Module 2: National Assessment
  • Module 3: District Assessment
  • Module 4: Local/Classroom Assessment
You'll get everything you need to facilitate an effective professional development session for your group.  Each video is timed to fit within a 1-hour staff meeting (35 to 45 minutes running time), including ample time for discussion, the included activities, and opening/closing time.The videos are provided in high-definition 1080p MP4 format. We recommend using a large screen with a high-definition projector for the best experience, and providing slide handouts if a smaller screen will be used.less total about 15GB in size. If download speed is a concern, you can also order the program on a USB flash drive.  30-Day Money Back Guarantee  Your purchase is 100% Risk Free.  If you're not happy for any reason, simply let our friendly support team know (via email) and we'll happily refund your money.  Get started now!  

   
Science is a Verb, not a Noun!, Craig Gaska, Nov 5, 2015, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, ISU Alumni Center, Normal, IL OR Dec 15, 2015, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, Kaskaskia College, Centralia, IL OR Apr 29, 2016, 3:30 am - 3:30 pm, 7 Bridges Golf Club, Woodridge, IL
Science is a verb, not a noun! Science is something that students do. The goal of this workshop is to help you use the Next Generation Science Standards to invigorate science in the classroom. You will learn how to bring the standards to life by using strategies that integrate the NGSS into your current curriculum, not an "add-on." Dr. Gaska will show you how to apply the standards, using a practical unit and lesson planning model that will help you create lessons that will turn your students on to science. Participants need to bring examples of current science units to this hands-on workshop to make the most of the day.  Continental breakfast, lunch, free parking, 6 professional development hours.  Register here for Nov 5, 2015: 

Common Formative Assessment 2.0, Larry Ainsworth, Nov 10, 2015, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, Bobak's Signature Events & Conference Center, Woodridge, IL
The Common Formative Assessments 2.0 series of services provide educators with the skills to collaboratively create, with a grade-level or course-level team, unit-based assessments for learning to assess student understanding of the particular learning intentions (standards or outcomes) and success criteria currently in focus within a curricular unit of study.
 
Other key points about the Common Formative Assessments (CFAs) 2.0 process include:
  • The CFA process is not limited to assessment design only. Rather, it is a system of intentionally aligned components that all work together to improve student learning.
  • Common formative  assessments can do what large-scale summative  assessments, by design, cannot - provide classroom educators with timely , credible evidence of their impact on student learning and achievement.
  • Using the CFA process, grade-level and course-level teams of educators collaborate to intentionally align their pre and post common formative assessments and create their assessment questions to match the same level of rigor  as in the unit's learning intentions (derived from state, provincial, or Common Core standards).
  • Teacher teams use the resulting student feedback as diagnostic data to correctly interpret  student understanding and differentiate  instruction. Students use the same valuable feedback to monitor and adjust their individual learning strategies.
  • The CFA process is applicable to any and all  standards at every grade level and content area, a process that is directly relevant to all  K-12 educators.
Register here 
The Breakthrough Coach: How to Work Less, Produce More and Still Get the Job Done in a Sensible School Week, Nov 18 - Nov. 19, 2015, Medinah Shriners Conference Center 
The Breakthrough Coach (TBC) consulting team works with education leaders to adapt proven business management techniques to the educational environment at both the building and the district level.  Two days.  One life-changing program.
TBC's Management Methodology™ enables administrators to:
  • Spend two full days each week observing classroom instruction
  • Maintain a sensible work-life balance
  • Raise student achievement
  • Achieve fulfilling professional and personal lives

2015-2016 Cohort, 4 sessions of CLDN - "ONE DAY AT A TIME" AS EASY AS 1, 2, 3
Ideal for those responsible for curriculum leadership in a school or district setting.  Learn to enhance instructional leadership and gain skills on implementation, data analysis, and implications for curriculum development. Gain invaluable knowledge on PERA, Assessment, NGSS, and PE Standards. Learn how to lead PLC's.  Network and connect with other curriculum leaders. Share resources, explore topics relevant to school improvement planning AND you will also get access to experienced mentors. Frequently we have been asked, "Can I sign up for part of the program?" Now the answer is YES! CLDN sessions will be expanded to include educators and TEAMS OF EDUCATORS who wish to select from varying topics. 1. WHAT ARE YOUR NEEDS? * Select one topic on one date, or select two or more. * Come alone or as a team. * Select Administrators Academy Credit or CPDU's. * Customize to your individual, your school or district needs.
Nov. 30 - "NGSS 3D Learning" Tara Kristoff, Curriculum Coordinator Summit Argo; "Enhanced PE Standards" Deb Vogel, Enhanced PE Taskforce; Judy Tiggelaar, President-Elect IAHPERD
Jan. 25 - "Visible Learning Research for Teachers & Students," Greg Wolcott, Asst. Superintendent for Learning, Woodridge; "Evaluating as Student Centered Classroom/ Danielson," PJ Caposey, Superintendent, Stillman Valley SD
Feb. 22 - "Vertical/Horizontal Viable Curriculum," Jill Gildea, Superintendent, Fremont SD 79, Elizabeth Freeman, Curriculum Director, Fremont SD 79; "Instructional Rounds" Anne Roloff
April 25 - "Vision, Values & Goals: Leading Change in a Professional Learning Community" AA # 940, Doug Lillydahl, Adlai Stevenson HS; Jill Kingsfield, Ranjana Rajendran, Fenton HS
Meetings take place at HSD 218 Academy, 10701 S. Kilpatrick, Oak Lawn, IL 60543.
Continental breakfast, lunch, free parking, 6 professional development hours, and some sessions offer Administrator Academy credit. Registration coming soon.  
    
An Evaluator's Guide to the SLO Process for Monitoring Student Growth, Jennie Winters, Dec 3, 2015, ISU Alumni Center, Normal, IL, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Jennie Winters will explain the variety of types of assessment that can be used in a Balanced Assessment System, with a focus on Type III assessments for the purpose of evaluation. We will discuss the role of quality assessments and performance level criteria in the SLO (Student Learning Objective) processes to use them to monitor student growth. Participants will understand how to analyze assessments resource to determine alignment to the rigor of the Illinois learning Standards. Strategies for data management, including collection, analysis, disaggregation, and triangulation of data will be covered. This workshop includes: Six professional development hours, Administrator Academy Credit, breakfast, lunch, parking, and handouts.  Register here.

Balancing Evaluation, Supervision and Reflection, Tony Frontier, Dec 15, 2015, 8:30 am - 3:30pm, Seven Bridges Golf Club, Woodridge
How can we build systems of supervision that focus on developing teacher expertise rather than merely measuring quality?  How do we empower teachers as the active users of frameworks for effective practice?  This workshop will:
  • Develop an understanding of the critical distinctions among systems of evaluation, supervision, and reflection.
  • Learn strategies to lead and implement transformational systems that emppower teachers as compared to transactional systems that emphasize the role of administrators.
  • Apply a three-phase model of implementation of processes that ensure ownership and engagement in their goals for growth and ensure each teacher is his or her own best supervisor.
  • Acquire dozens of practical strategies and protocols for teachers, coaches, principals, and district office administrators to ensure their system of evaluation improves, rather than merely measures, teaching.
This workshop includes breakfast, lunch, free parking, 6 Professional Development Hours.  Register here.

NEW-MS/HS RtI/MTSS Roundtable Conference, Jan 15, 2016,The McHenry County College Conference Center, 8900 U.S. Highway 14, Crystal Lake, IL 60012, 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Call for presenters.  Please review our RFP, complete the online form and submit by Nov 15, 2015.
MS/HS administrators, RtI/MTSS coordinators, social workers, psychologists, deans and counselors.  Attendees with similar roles/positions will be grouped to share ideas and programs focused on Tier 2 Interventions.  A facilitator will coordinate the discussion.  Potential topics:  Attendance; Truancy; Discipline; Support Groups; Targeted Programs for academics, behavioral or social-emotional; RtI/MTSS roles; Coordination of RtI; Communication systems; Drug & alcohol; Data.  Attendees are asked to bring at least one description of an RtI/MTSS program/service being offered in the school/community.  Please bring 25 copies to the conference. Breakfast, snacks, free parking, materials, 4 PDH, 4 Social Worker continuing education hours.  Register for the roundtable here.

Transitioning Students to Appropriate Assessments in Math in the CCSS/PARCC World, Anita Reid, Jan 20, 2016, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, ISU Alumni Center, Normal
We will look at various means to implement an instructional and assessment process moving students towards being more successful on CCSS aligned PARCC assessments for middle and high school math.  This information provided will assist you in taking your existing classroom to the next level of student engagement and eventually achievement.  Topics discussed will be Backward Design lesson planning, Creating Engaging Assessments, Finding Engaging Tasks, and Writing Your own Engaging Tasks.  Numerous resources will be shared. This workshop includes breakfast, lunch, free parking, 6 Professional Development Hours.  Register here.
 
Building Teachers' Capacity for Success, Pete Hall, Jan 20, 2016, Crystal Lake Holiday Inn, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
To help you deepen your thinking and reflect on your professional practice, Pete Hall will share with you the Continuum of Self Reflection, a tool introduced to coaches and administrators in his best-selling
Building Teachers' Capacity for Success and redesigned for teachers in Teach, Reflect, Learn - so you can take charge of your own professional growth!

In this workshop, you'll find tools specifically made to enhance self-reflection on professional practice, including the Continuum of Self-Reflection and the Reflective Cycle. You'll be able to assess your current self-reflective tendencies, identify opportunities to reflect on your instruction, and begin to forge a path toward continuous growth and educational excellence.  Continental breakfast, lunch, free parking and 6 professional development hours included. Register here:  https://illinoisascd.org/professional-learning-opportunities/upcoming-conferences-workshops/event/2016/01/building-teachers-capacity-for-success

NEW-LILA: Where Educators Become Advocates
Sign up for ASCD's 2016 Leadership Institute for Legislative Advocacy-happening January 24-26 in Washington, D.C.-to hear from education policy expert and whole child champion Paul Reville, collaborate with other civic-minded educators, and learn to amplify your advocacy voice. Register by October 31 for a discounted early-bird rate.  Visit www.ascd.org/lila for more information.

Empower All Staff to Exceed Their Potential, Greg Wolcott, Jan 28, 2016, ISU Alumni Center, Normal IL 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Leadership in today's educational climate is all about creating an environment that builds upon existing teacher knowledge and embracing new demands as opportunities for system-wide improvement. Today's successful leaders exercise leadership by empowering staff to solve the challenges of the day. In this day-long workshop, Greg Wolcott will share Student Centered Leadership work by Viviane Robinson, The Progress Principle by Teresa Amable, Start with Why by Simon Sinek and Succeed; How We Can Reach Our Goals by Heidi Grant Halvorson. Teachers and principals will gain insight into how to EXCEED in helping learners in successful learning growth. This workshop includes: Six professional development hours, breakfast, lunch, parking and handouts. Register here.

Listen! Students are Talking to Us in Their Assessments - Bobb Darnell, Feb. 3, 2016, 8:30 a.m - 3:30 p.m. Holiday Inn Crystal Lake  
Learn the difference between Assessment of learning and assessment for learning to find out what you are looking for in formative assessments. After attending the workshop you will be able to:  1. Explain what students need from us to demonstrate high achievement.  2. Be familiar with assessment practices that you and your colleagues use.  3. Know how to use data to measure and "cause" student learning and growth. Haven't heard Bobb present? Here he is presenting on Common Core and Assessments: https://vimeo.com/78481157   
Holiday Inn Crystal Lake, 800 S. Illinois Rte 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014. Registration includes: Breakfast, lunch, and six professional development hours. To register, click here. 

NEW-Lead and Teach - Classroom Assessments that Empower, Diane Wolf, Feb 11, 2016,
8:30 am - 3:30 pm, Kaskaskia College, Centralia, IL
Classroom assessments should not be overwhelming, but empowering! This is a dynamic workshop that will have you analyze your own assessment beliefs and talents as you begin to formulate your own professional plan for assessment literacy. As leaders in buildings and classrooms, teachers are transitioning to a new assessment era.  This session will be divided into four parts and will have practical suggestions at each turn: * BIG PICTURE: Formulate a "big picture" view of assessment in schools and districts and their different purposes * MINDSETS: Connect how the mindset of the teacher impacts the learning in the classroom * USERS: Determine who are the users of assessments and the data that should be inferred from the assessments * RELATIONSHIPS: Decide how the relationships in a classroom and school influence, for good or bad, the learning that occurs.  Breakfast, lunch, parking, 6 professional development hours are included. Register here. 

Registration Now Open for ASCD 2016 in Atlanta, GA, Apr 2 - 4, 2016
From hands-on workshops to inspiring speeches, the 2016 ASCD Annual Conference has more than 200 sessions on an extensive range of topics. So whether you are a new teacher or a seasoned administrator, you can customize a program to meet your professional needs.  Join your peers to share knowledge, learn from others, and gain tools to help lead education into the future. Learn more. 
 
Leadership Legacy Summits, David Anderson, 4 sessions, Renaissance Hotel, Schaumburg, IL Attend one or all four!
Begin your journey to GREAT leadership by attending the Leadership Legacy Summits.  This quarterly series focuses on YOUR leadership, and helps participants to fully understand what true, authentic leadership really is! This Summit will give you the tools to practice great leadership and allow you to find better relationships, improved organizations, increased profits, and new cultures, just to name a few.  The Leadership Legacy Summits will give you a strong foundation for building sound leadership and raising the "lid" on your current leadership quotient.  This is a DO NOT MISS opportunity!
November 13, 2015 8:30 am to 1:00 pm
"Successful Leadership,"  Understanding and Practicing Foundational Leadership
February 19, 2016 8:30 am to 1:00 pm
"What Are You Afraid Of?,"  Getting Out of Your Own Way
May 20, 2016 8:30 am to 1:00 pm
"Think Like a Leader,"  Always Taking the Leader's Perspective
August 26, 2016 8:30 am to 1:00 pm
"360 Degree Leadership,"  Lead from Anywhere.  Take on the Leadership Lifestyle.

Where:  Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg, IL
Cost:  $249 per session, including Networking Luncheon
Register by visiting:  www.theleadershiplegacysummits.com 

NEW-The Illinois Resource Center invites you to An Evening With Tony Wagner, December 8. Tony is an
Expert in Residence at Harvard University's innovation lab and international author of Most Likely to Succeed: Preparing Our Kids for the Innovation Era. Click here to access the registration form.

The Illinois Association of School Boards and the Illinois Association of School Administrators present: Professional Advancement Seminars, Seeking the Superintendency, Jan 13, 2016 (Springfield)
This intensive one-day seminar is designed to assist anyone seeking employment as a superintendent and will include a detailed description of the Illinois Association of School Boards' Superintendent Search process.  You will learn how to evaluate and improve your opportunities for professional advancement through presentations by those who work with the process and through printed materials that are yours to retain.  For a pdf of the brochure regarding these events:  click here 
To register online today:  click here  for Wed., January 13, 2016 (Springfield) 
From the Field
Chicago Mayor Wants to Make Computer Science a Graduation Requirement 
The Hill

Remote Learning "eDays" Help Schools Manage Extreme Weather
In a column for USA Today Thomas M. Kostigen reports that school systems are increasingly turning to remote learning "eDays" to make up for time otherwise lost to extreme weather such as blizzards, heat waves and floods. The article discussed the weather challenges faced by school districts across the country as well as the costs and benefits of eDays, including criticism from some parents who feel that eDays place an "undue burden on them to stay home with their children those days, potentially missing work."
The AP reports that there is an increase in using "online learning technologies intended to keep youngsters engaged even if inclement winter weather maroons them at home" in Indiana. More districts are holding "'eLearning' days this fall to familiarize students and staff with the technology-dependent learning format before winter arrives."

Survey Reveals Parents' Attitudes About Testing
Nearly half -- 49% -- of parents recently surveyed said their children take too many tests, according to data released by nonprofit Education Post. Forty percent said they think students are taking the right amount of tests.U.S. News & World Report 

A program in Chicago called "Grow Your Own" is helping schools encourage black and Latino students to become teachers. The program, which partners with colleges such as Northeastern Illinois University, recruits students from public schools and organizations to pursue education degrees. Examiner.com 

African-American Education Group Exposes Illinois High School Students To STEM Careers
The Aurora (IL) Beacon-News reports African-American Achievers Academy of Aurora in Illinois held a summit in West Aurora High School's cafeteria to teach high school students about opportunities in STEM careers. Participants from several local schools spent Monday learning about different STEM careers while they had the day off from school for Columbus Day.

National Education Association Seeks to End McTeacher's Nights
The National Education Association and several other organizations have asked McDonald's to end "McTeacher's Nights." The program involves educators serving students food from behind the counter, and schools then receiving a portion of the sales. The initiative raises concerns about brand marketing in schools. National Public Radio 

STIThe use of technology in classrooms appears to range from none, or minimal, to frequent. STI focuses on teaching strategies that give diverse students multiple options for taking in and processing information, making sense of ideas, and expressing learning. Technology tools can support good instruction and personalized learning environments in which students can interact with soîtware and applications, conduct research, create products, and communicate with others. STI staff work closely with school personnel to produce professional development that integrates the use of existing technologies, connects curriculum and incorporates: Innovation, Curriculum Development Response to Intervention Strategies, Interim Assessments, and Modeling. 
Curriculum / Common Core 
Data: High-school Graduation Rates Rise in 36 States, Including Illinois
High-school graduation rates rose during the 2013-14 school year in 36 states, according to preliminary data from the National Center for Education Statistics. This marks the second straight year the US has reported record high graduation rates. The Washington Post

Schools Can Use the Arts to Improve Student Achievement
Incorporating the arts into classroom learning can boost academic skills, creativity and motivation, says Sandra Ruppert, director of the Arts Education Partnership. Prince George's County Public Schools in Maryland piloted an arts-integration program in 15 schools last year and expanded it to 41 schools this year. The Washington Post

It's not enough to just "do projects." Today's projects need to be rigorous, engaging, and in-depth, and they need to have student voice and choice built in. Such projects require careful planning and pedagogical skill. In Setting the Standard for Project-Based Learning: A Proven Approach to Rigorous Classroom Instruction, authors-leaders at the respected Buck Institute for Education-take readers through the step-by-step process of how to create, implement, and assess PBL using a classroom-tested framework.

What happens in the classroom to deepen students' learning is the most important aspect of a flipped classroom, middle-grades educator and doctoral student Joe Hirsch writes in this blog post. He offers practical tips for managing flipped classrooms, including platforms that allow teachers to track students' progress and embed quizzes. Edutopia.org

Announcement - PARCC Adds Released Items to Partnership Resource Center
PARCC has added released items to the Partnership Resource Center. There is approximately one test worth of items for each grade-level or course.  Included are Type 2 and 3 items with rubrics and actual student works with annotations describing their scoring. Read more

Illinois Sets New Baseline for Improvement with PARCC Release
Illinois became only the second state to share the preliminary results in English Language Arts and math of the new assessment called PARCC, the Partnership for the Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers. Ohio stepped forward with initial results in the test of math and English Language Arts, and other states will follow in the coming weeks. As expected, the early results are different, and lower than old state tests reflected. While the results may be as expected - indeed, the results are quite consistent with Illinois' performance on national tests in recent years - they are nonetheless disappointing. Roughly a third of our students are on-track to be college and career-ready, with two-thirds needing additional support.
For Preliminary State-level Results check here: Illinois State Board of Education

Bill, Melinda Gates Discuss Politics Of Common Core
PBS NewsHour aired an interview with Bill and Melinda Gates on the education policy aspects of the 2016 presidential campaign, especially as concerns the Common Core Standards. Bill Gates lamented that the "facts about Common Core are often obscured," and touted the standards for improving college readiness. The conversation addressed how the standards originated with governors and state schools chiefs, but were pulled into the debate over Federal control over education. Other topics include charter schools and the debate over testing. 

Educators can use YouTube and other social media to increase parent and community engagement with their school, educator Terry Heick writes. He suggests that teachers record in their classrooms and share the videos with peers during meetings and through social media to highlight classroom practices. Edutopia.org

With nearly half of first-year college students entering a two-year college needing to take remedial courses, the American Association of Community Colleges and the Association of Community College Trustees are calling for more rigorous standards of assessments in secondary schools. In a statement, leaders of the organizations said remediation puts a "tremendous strain on resources that can be applied to teaching students at the college level." Diverse: Issues In Higher Education

ISBE Test and Assessment Home
 
Many PARCC resources have been moved to the end of this newsletter under RESOURCES. 
 
LEARNING.COMElementary STEM- Engage and encourage your elementary students to develop strong STEM skills that will keep them excited and excelling in their later school years. Request a whitepaper: Integrated STEM Education through Project-Based Learning or contact Mark Adzick - Territory Manager, madzick@learning.com or 800-580-4640 x4560, Daniela Kaelin - Inside Sales Representative, dkaelin@learning.com or 800-580-4640 x4495 for more information.
Opportunities
NEW-Vacancy:  Superintendent, Washington SD 52, Washington, IL 
Click here to download or view the Announcement of Vacancy.  Applications are only accepted online by noon on Oct 30, 2015. Please click here to apply. For further information, please visit the IASB website.

NEW-Vacancy:  Superintendent, Maercker SD 60, Westmont, IL 
Click here to download or view the Announcement of Vacancy.  Applications are only accepted online by noon Nov 6, 2015. Please click here to apply. For further information, please visit the IASB website.

NEW-Vacancy:  Superintendent, Chester CUSD 139, Chester, IL 
Click here to download or view the Announcement of Vacancy.  Applications are only accepted online by noon on Nov 10, 2015. Please click here to apply. For further information, please visit the IASB website.

NEW-Vacancy:  Superintendent,  Madison CUSD 12, Madison, IL 
Click here to download or view the Announcement of Vacancy.  Applications are only accepted online by noon on Nov 17, 2015. Please click here to apply. For further information, please visit the IASB website.

Vacancy:  Superintendent, Hiawatha CUSD 426, Kirkland, IL
Click here to download or view the Job Description.  Applications are only accepted online by noon on Oct 29, 2015.   Please click here to apply. For further information, please visit the IASB website.

Vacancy:  Superintendent, Belvidere Community Unit School District 100, Belvidere, Illinois 
Description:  The Board of Education of Belvidere Community Unit School District 100 has commenced a search for a new superintendent of schools who will assume responsibilities on July 1, 1, 2016. The Belvidere School District boundaries encompass 159 square miles, including the city of Belvidere and parts of Caledonia, Poplar Grove, Garden Prairie, Cherry Valley, Loves Park and Rockford. There are five elementary schools, one STEM academy, two middle schools and two comprehensive high schools. These facilities serve a student population of approximately 8,300 students. The district lies on the I-90 corridor, immediately east of Rockford and a short drive to the Wisconsin border. This is truly a great professional opportunity for a qualified and experienced educator to provide leadership to a successful and highly respected school district in northwestern Illinois. Additional information about the school district may be found at www.district100.com. A regionally competitive compensation package will be offered to the successful candidate.
Application Procedure:  Interested candidates need to complete the online application process by November 1, 2015. To complete an online Applicant Data Form and electronically submit a resume, letter of interest, list of professional accomplishments, a brief description of major professional accomplishments, college/university transcripts, 3-5 letters of recommendation, and evidence of eligibility to serve as a superintendent in Illinois, please go to www.bwpassociates.com. For additional information, please contact one of the BWP & Associates' search consultants: Dr. Mark Friedman at 847-975-8393; Dr. Anne Noland at 630-624-3336; Dr. Joe Porto at 847-533-3587; or Dr. Patricia Wernet at 708-717-2353.

Asian Cultural Council Invites Competitive Applications for 2016 Grants for Individuals!
You must be an artist, an arts or humanities professional, a scholar, or a graduate/post-graduate student in a related field. Your country of permanent residence must be within Asia or the United States, and your proposed project must take place outside of your home country, also in either the United States or Asia. Deadline to apply is Nov 2.  The Asian Cultural Council invites you to apply. For more information: www.asianculturalcouncil.org

Vacancy:  Co-Principal, Tioga Elementary School, Pre-K-5, Bensenville Elementary School District 2, Bensenville, IL
Description:  Bensenville Elementary School District 2, located in eastern DuPage County and bordering on O'Hare airport, seeks a Co-principal for the Tioga Elementary School beginning on July 1, 2016. Bensenville District 2 serves a diverse student population of approximately 2,200 students. Tioga Elementary has a student enrollment of close to 800 in its Pre-K-5 program. Tioga is a beautiful brand new facility, opening its doors last year as a replacement for the old Tioga and Chippewa Elementary schools, which were demolished.  District 2 is a financially stable, diverse and innovative school system. The district has been recognized by the State of Illinois and U.S. Department of Education for growth in student achievement (National Blue Ribbon Award 2011). It has also been a leader in teacher training, performance evaluation and was recently recognized by the State Board of Education as being the highest performing school district in Illinois in the federal Race to the Top Program. District 2 was an early implementer of the Common Core back in 2010 and has already completed the work required under the Performance Evaluation Review Act (PERA) to have student outcomes in teacher evaluation.  This exciting and unique opportunity will afford a career-minded and dedicated professional a chance to work with a collegial and progressive administrative team. The opportunity to share the principal position on a full-time basis is a rare chance to collaborate with a colleague on a day-to-day professional basis. This really is a chance for a special type of leader to excel in his/her career. The ideal candidate will have a strong record of accomplishment as an instructional leader, excellent communication skills, a collaborative philosophy, and the ability to involve all stakeholders in the continuing process of positive growth and change. A proven growth mindset will be essential for success in this position. The ability to communicate in Spanish, while not a requirement, would be an asset to any candidate interested. A competitive compensation package will be offered to the successful candidate. Additional information about Tioga School and District 2 can be found on the district website www.bsd2.org.
 
Application Procedure:  Interested candidates need to complete the online application process at www.bwpassociates.com by November 13, 2015. An application requires a completed online Applicant Data Form; a letter of application indicating qualifications and reasons for interest in the position; a current resume; College/University transcripts; three to five letters of recommendation; and evidence of eligibility to serve as a Principal in Illinois.  All of the required materials should be submitted online at www.bwpassociates.com. Application materials will be treated confidentially. Applicants are requested not to contact the Superintendent but to direct questions to the search consultants.  For additional information, please contact one of the BWP & Associates' search consultants: Dr. Mark Friedman at 847-975-8393 or Dr. Joe Porto at 847-533-3587.

University of Illinois to Recognize High School Students for Innovations
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is looking for high school students who are putting innovative ideas into action. It's inviting Illinois students in grades nine to 12 to apply for the university's "Celebrating High School Innovators" award. Apply now thru Nov 30.  Read more 

Nominate Your Student Leaders for the Opportunity of a Lifetime!
The United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) is an amazing opportunity for motivated student leaders. Founded in 1962, this program allows 104 chosen students from around the country to join a weeklong intensive educational program in Washington, D.C., where they will meet with the president,, U.S. senators, a justice of the supreme court, and many other national leaders. USSYP provides for all expenses, including travel and accommodations, as well as a $5,000 undergraduate college scholarship for each student. Two students from each state, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity will be selected by state departments of education nationwide for this opportunity. Deadlines for applications vary by state but are generally in September or October.  
NASSP encourages principals to nominate exceptional high school juniors and seniors serving in an elected or appointed position in the 2015-16 academic year with a strong interest in government and history. Visit www.ussenateyouth.org for state selection contacts, deadlines, and comprehensive information.  Submit names by Dec 1, 2015.

2015-2016 Moon Scholarship Program 
Are you a superintendent or an aspiring superintendent? Are you pursuing graduate study to become the best superintendent you can be? Do you know there are scholarships available through IASA to help offset the costs of your coursework?  Established in 1993 in memory of Dr. James V. Moon, a former superintendent at Morton High School District, the James V. and Dorothy B. Moon Scholarship program is committed to improving the education and qualifications of school administrators. Since its inception, 90 scholarships totaling nearly $196,000 have been awarded to current or aspiring superintendents.
 
Practicing school administrators in Illinois qualify if they are college graduates pursuing an advanced degree in educational administration at an accredited college or university. Several scholarships ($2,500 minimum each) are awarded each year and are paid directly to the college or university to cover tuition, fees and/or textbook expenses.  To obtain more information on the application and awards process, click here or contact Cherry Middleton, IASA Executive Secretary/Office Manager, at 217/753-2213 or email at cmiddleton@iasaedu.org. This year's application deadline is Friday, January 1, 2016.

USDA Seeks Applications for $16.8 Million in Grants to Empower SNAP Participants to Make Healthy Eating Choices
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the availability of up to $16.8 million in funding to help participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) increase their purchases of fruits and vegetables. The funding is available to local, state and national organizations to test incentive strategies to help SNAP participants better afford healthy foods. This is the second round of awards to be made under the Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive (FINI) program created by the 2014 Farm Bill. USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) will administer the grants.  Applications are due December 16, 2015. NIFA will host a webinar for applicants on October 14, 2015 at 2:00 p.m., EDT at http://nifa-connect.nifa.usda.gov/finip/.
Applications are sought in three categories: (1) FINI pilot projects (awards not to exceed $100,000 in one year); (2) multi-year, community-based FINI projects (awards not to exceed $500,000 over no more than four years); and (3) multi-year, FINI large-scale projects (awards of $500,000 or more over no more than four years).  For more information, visit www.usda.gov/farmbill.

Free Tutoring
Mark Smith mark.smith@tutorhunt.com a completely free service for both tutors and students to locate each other.  The website is at www.tutorhunt.com/.

The Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA) is pleased to announce the newly redesigned Illinois Education Job Banks at https://www.illinoiseducationjobbank.org.
 
Job Banks At Illinois State Board of Education
The Illinois State Board of Education has two links to job bank sites, click here.    
 
ASCD Job Ramp: A Careers Site for Educators
Developed through a partnership between CareerBuilder and ASCD, the free ASCD Job Ramp website was developed to simplify the job hunt for educators of all professional levels. Access the jobs site day or night, weekend or weekday, to browse U.S. openings in education. And don't forget to take advantage of custom search options and personalized alerts. Browse openings in your area 
 
Collaborative Learning
 
 
 Grants / Awards
The Big List of Educational Grants and Resources
Get a roundup of educational grants, contests, awards, free toolkits, and classroom guides aimed at helping students, classrooms, schools, and communities. Check this page weekly to get the latest updates!  www.edutopia.org/grants-and-resources 
 
Award & Scholarship Opportunities from the Illinois Association for Gifted Children (IAGC)
Students in need of financial support for a special project or program, educators looking for professional development funds to work with advanced learners, or administrators looking to recognize staff dedicated to identifying and developing exceptional talent in young people are encouraged to explore the awards and scholarships available through the Illinois Association for Gifted Children (IAGC). Information about the various opportunities available for educators, parents and students (grades 1-12) is online at http://www.iagcgifted.org/awards-and-scholarships.html. Deadlines are in November.

Campbell's Labels for Education 
The Campbell's, Inc. Labels for Education Program gives schools free educational equipment in exchange for labels from Campbell products. Maximum award: varies. Eligibility: Schools or parents coordinate label drives to raise resources for schools. Deadline: N/A. For more information, click here.
 
WAVELENGTH the Chicago-based, award-winning ensemble of actors and educators, offers an assortment of proven keynotes and workshops that use humor, laughter and improvisation to train, motivate and inspire educational professionals. New options include Uncommon Core Comedy, Those Who Laugh, Last,The 7 Habits of Highly Ineffective Educators, Faculty Lounge, Musical Staff, and The Sense™ of Humor. DVD training also available. For keynotes, workshops or DVDs, please call 877-LAUGHS2 or www.wavelengthinc.com. 
Research
The percentage of college students majoring in fields related to science, technology, engineering and math -- 28.5% -- is the highest in the state in a decade, according to a new study from the Illinois Science and Technology Coalition. The study also found that immigrants earn one out of every five non-healthcare STEM degrees in the state. Streetwise Media

Report Connects Cognitive Science, Teacher Prep
Two-dozen deans of education schools working together under the "Deans for Impact" initiative have released a report summarizing cognitive science research and its application to teacher preparation. "Too often, people are inclined to go with their gut when it comes to education. The more we can elevate robust and empirical education, the better," said Benjamin Riley, executive director of the initiative. EducationNext.org
 
Succeeding with Inquiry in Science and Math Classrooms
Research shows that inquiry-based instruction boosts students' critical thinking skills and promotes the kind of creative problem solving that turns the classroom into an energized learning environment. In this book from author Jeff Marshall, real-world lesson plans illustrate highly effective inquiry-based instruction. No matter what your experience with inquiry-based instruction, "Succeeding with Inquiry in Science and Math Classrooms" will help hone your ability to plan and implement high-quality lessons that engage students and improve learning.

Study: Are repetitive drills an effective teaching tool?
Repetitive drills may prevent students with autism from generalizing learning and applying new skills to real-world settings, according to a study published in Nature Neuroscience. "Our conclusion is that breaks in repetition allow the visual system some time to rest and allow autistic individuals to learn efficiently and to then generalize," said New York University's David Heeger, who worked on the study. Disability Scoop

Home Visiting Linked to Lower School Truancy and Better Reading Outcomes
Students whose teachers visited them at home to build relationships with their families were less likely to miss school, according to a new study from Johns Hopkins University.

Number of MOOCs rises to nearly 4,000 in 4 years
Fewer than 10 massive open online courses existed at colleges and universities in 2011, but this year the cumulative number of courses is almost 4,000, according to a report from Class Central. The most popular courses include those in statistics, computer science and business, researchers found. The Chronicle of Higher Education 

Study: ADHD Manifests Differently in Children's Brains by Gender
A study of 120 children with and without attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, ages 8 to 12, showed differences in the brain white matter of those with ADHD, with boys showing differences in the primary motor cortex and girls showing differences in the prefrontal regions of the brain, compared with children without the disorder. The findings were published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. HealthDay News
Publications
ASCD Books
Explore our member books to sample chapters from both our newest offerings and our vast archive. If you are interested in making member books a core part of your benefit package, contact the ASCD Service Center to upgrade your membership.

In "Complex Text Decoded: How to Design Strategies and Use Lessons that Target Authentic Texts," education consultant and master teacher Kathy T. Glass presents strategies, activities, and assessments that target students' ability to comprehend complex text -- whether presented as traditional written text or in multimedia formats -- in grades 5 to 10. You'll learn the elements of unit design, step-by-step instruction for teaching vocabulary, effective questioning techniques, and much more.

In the new book The Motivated Brain: Improving Student Attention, Engagement, and Perseverance, authors Gayle Gregory and Martha Kaufeldt take you on a tour of the brain's "seeking system" and explain the learning conditions and teaching practices that encourage it to thrive. This book includes key brain-friendly strategies for improving
  • Student motivation
  • Knowledge acquisition
  • Retention
  • And academic success
The Motivated Brain shows teachers how to harness the power of their students' intrinsic motivation to make learning fun, engaging, and meaningful.

Succeeding with Inquiry in Science and Math Classrooms
Research shows that inquiry-based instruction boosts students' critical thinking skills and promotes the kind of creative problem solving that turns the classroom into an energized learning environment. In this book from author Jeff Marshall, real-world lesson plans illustrate highly effective inquiry-based instruction. No matter what your experience with inquiry-based instruction, Succeeding with Inquiry inScience and Math Classrooms will help hone your ability to plan and implement high-quality lessons that engage students and improve learning. Learn more.

Your school is a lot more than a center of student learning -- it also represents a self-contained culture, with traditions and expectations that reflect its unique mission and demographics. In this groundbreaking book, education experts Steve Gruenert and Todd Whitaker offer tools, strategies, and advice for defining, assessing, and ultimately transforming your school's culture into one that is positive, forward-looking, and actively working to enrich students' lives.  

As a special offer during Connected Educator Month this October, download a free copy of Michael Fisher's ASCD Arias®, "Digital Learning Strategies: How do I assign and assess 21st century work?" This book explores what types of assignments are worth engaging online, how teachers and students can leverage global interactions to improve their work, and how teachers can assess digital projects and other work. Download it now for practical advice on formative assessment, digital portfolios, and more.

If teachers are stressed out and exhausted, how can they have the patience, energy and enthusiasm to provide the best instruction? Author Mike Anderson asked that question as a teacher himself, and the answers he found form the basis of his book, The Well-Balanced Teacher. Anderson devotes a chapter to each of the key needs he identified -- belonging, significance, positive engagement, and balance -- describing his own struggles and offering tips to help readers find solutions that will work for them.
Internet Sources
SuperKids
Are your students reading as well as they should be? We can help. Learn about The Superkids, the strongest K-2 reading program in America. Read teachers' raves, see results-and improve reading scores at your school. Contact Susan Quarino at sue.quarino@rowlandreading.org or click here for more details, www.superkidsreading.org.


In this blog post, Billy Spicer, a teacher in suburban Chicago, encourages educators to celebrate Connected Educator Month by -- of course -- getting connected. Spicer asserts teachers should "knock down classroom walls," in part, by using technology to connect with fellow teachers and embracing social media. SmartBrief/SmartBlog on Education

By logging interruptions at work, you can better acknowledge the cumulative amount of time lost to them and form strategies to reduce them, writes Hannah Morgan. It's also important to say "no" to extra tasks now and then to protect the time you need to work on key projects. Finally, make a weekly schedule that you can stick to.U.S. News & World Report

Are you an educator who commutes to work or who is looking for new and innovative ideas for your next class, faculty meeting or community event? Check out some podcasts today, writes ASCD Emerging Leader Jeff Bradbury in this blog post on Inservice. Bradbury, who hosts the TeacherCast podcast, writes about ideas for educators to create podcasts of their own and also listen to great content to drive their own professional development. 

Schools, Educators Face Problems Trying To Implement "Bring Your Own Device" Policies
THE Journal outlines the challenges schools and teachers face when trying to implement a "bring your own device" policy. More schools are allowing students to bring electronic devices (e.g. computers, smart phones) to classes to help them learn, but many schools are struggling to balance the benefits of technology in classrooms with the costs of technical problems. The article lists recommendations for schools and educators trying to strike this balance. 

Where Emojis Come From
The Unicode Consortium determines how characters and images are assigned standardized codes for widespread reproduction, making it "the midwife to new emojis," Jonah Bromwich writes. A new set of 67 are up for approval in spring. Co-founder Mark Davis says emojis are a powerful tool, but they lack the specificity of actual languages.The New York Times

To encourage teachers to innovate using technology, they should be encouraged to develop a "growth mindset," writes Andrew Hamilton, technology integration specialist at Northeast Metro Intermediate District 916 in Minnesota. In this blog post, he writes that this mindset will not develop overnight and shares several tips to help foster the change.SmartBrief/SmartBlog on Education

In this blog on Inservice, Sabeen Masaud, a teacher in Islamabad, Pakistan, explains why it's time to shift from superficial activities and programs in schools toward meaningful learning experiences and real creativity. She explores how many time-consuming and unproductive activities that are the current norm in schools can be channeled into valuable learning for students to experience outside the classroom with only a little effort and planning.  

Google Service Improves Teacher, Student e-mail Communication
Google offers an easy and efficient way to personalize e-mail communication with students, according to Howard Walker, an instructional technology coach with Oklahoma City Public Schools. In this blog post, he shares how Yet Another Mail Merge works and why it could be useful for teachers.SmartBrief/SmartBlog on Education

To retain black, female teachers, schools must improve working conditions, writes Andre Perry, former founding dean of urban education at Davenport University in Grand Rapids, Mich. In this commentary, Perry argues that inadequate diversity among teacher-prep programs, as well as race-blind recruitment, disadvantages black female teachers and the increasingly diverse student population.The Hechinger Report

RESOURCES:

Path to Teach
Check out Path to Teach, a new consumer guide to colleges of education. Users can search grades on more than 1,100 colleges and universities and 85 alternative certification programs, finding the one that will get them on a successful path into the teaching profession.

Speak Up 2015 is a national online research project that provides individuals the opportunity to share their thoughts on how to leverage technology in schools to promote learning.  Surveys for students, educators, parents, and community members/business partners will be open through December 18.

The English Learner Toolkit is a companion to the English Learner Guidance released by the Departments of Education and Justice in January 2015, consisting of 10 chapters, each chapter aligned to one of 10 sections of the guidance.  Included within the toolkit are tools and resources for identifying students as English Learners (ELs), delivering high-quality EL programs, evaluating the effectiveness of EL programs, preventing unnecessary segregation, providing qualified staff, ensuring access to school programs and activities (including disability-related services), exiting students from EL programs at the appropriate time, monitoring students' progress, and supporting EL parents.  The free toolkit can be easily downloaded and printed online (blog post).

A new online community, called Playbook, is providing teachers a place to share best practices and learn about classroom strategies used by other educators. The community, provided by Panorama Education, also includes a student-feedback loop to assess effectiveness of the lessons. Xconomy

Website Offers Open Education Resources, Online Community for Educators
Educators have a new way to access Open Education Resources. Curriki.org
offers free, vetted learning materials, plus a professional network (called Curriki Groups) where educators can collaborate and exchange ideas. 

Website Offers Free Instructional Resources for K-12 Teachers
Educade, from GameDesk, is an online library of free K-12 instructional resources, including lesson plans, applications, games and hands-on activities. Teachers can search for resources by grade level, subject matter and technology type. Users must register in order to access the library.

Federal Resources for Educational Excellence
Federal Resources for Educational Excellence (FREE) is an online teaching and learning resource from federal agencies. Topics that enhance the academic growth of all children can be found at http://free.ed.gov/, the FREE homepage.   

Social media can be a powerful learning tool for educators, asserts Steven Anderson, a former teacher and technology director. He spoke recently at the TCEA 2015 conference, where he offered seven tips to help teachers use Twitter more effectively. EdTech magazine online 

Google+ and Twitter offer teachers an opportunity to build their professional learning networks, according to Thomas Murray, a director at the Alliance For Excellent Education, and Steven Anderson, a former director of instructional technology in North Carolina. In this article, they share eight ways that teachers can make the most of social networks, including how to use hashtags effectively. eSchool News 

Illinois Department of Natural Resources presents:  
Standards-based Lesson Plans
The IDNR offers lessons developed with Illinois Learning Standards as their foundation. You can download them at http://dnr.state.il.us/education/CLASSRM/Kits.htm or http://dnr.state.il.us/education/standards.htm. You'll find several topics to choose from for a variety of grade levels.

Illinois State Board of Education
Illinois districts are piloting state-developed model math units to help students master concepts at each grade level as schools implement internationally-benchmarked learning standards that emphasize depth of knowledge, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The nationally-recognized units are the first of their kind, developed by a statewide team of educators...  Check out the models 

Resource: Mathematics Guides
Newly created  Informational Guides to the Summative Assessments in Mathematics provide information about the design and structure of the PARCC mathematics assessments for each grade/course. These guides were created to assist educators in understanding the mathematics content, inform instruction, and provide information about the mathematics test administration policies. The guides were developed by the PARCC Mathematics Operational Working Group, a group of PARCC state content and assessment specialists who work together to make PARCC mathematics policy decisions and ensure the quality of the assessments.

Lesson Plans to Teach Students About Data Breaches, Online Privacy
Cyberattacks and data breaches at some major retailers and government websites have been big news. This blog post offers tips and lesson plans to help educators teach students about topics including cybersecurity, online safety, privacy and digital citizenship. The New York Times (tiered subscription model)/The Learning Network blog

Digital-learning specialists Anna Adam and Helen Mowers offer a roundup of free resources to introduce students to coding. "Graduates with programming skills are in high demand, and it's clear those numbers will only increase," they write. Edutopia.org/Coding in the Classroom blog
 
PARCC/Common Core Resources

Kindergarten teachers everywhere are currently stressed about meeting the new rigorous common core standards. How can we possibly teach with such high expectations and maintain developmentally appropriate environments? Don't let these demands defeat you. Join us as we unfold how to create a magical common core aligned kindergarten.  Webinar registration link https://vimeo.com/84910703 

We have gathered a list of our favorite PARCC resources for educators. Each resource is paired with a brief description to ensure that educators can quickly locate important information about PARCC.

PARCC Illinois Resources
The Illinois State Board of Education created a helpful resource for teachers and parents outlining the top 10 things teachers need to know about the new Illinois assessments. 

The National Association of Elementary School Teachers has created "Implementing the Common Core Standards: The Role of the Elementary School Leader Action Brief," a guide outlining best practices for transitioning to the Common Core. Click  here to read the guide.

Blended Learning Resources

Blended learning can be messy, but it's a hallmark of modern learning, history teacher Bill Tolley writes in this commentary. He offers tips to help schools get started, with an emphasis on three essential components -- online delivery, student control and the brick-and-mortar experience. Education Week Teacher 

Educators now have a framework by which to determine their online and blended-learning competencies. The framework, which includes a list of competencies and effective practices, was developed by the International Association for K-12 Online Learning and nonprofit Learning Accelerator. T.H.E. Journal  

ASCD RESOURCES:

ASCD Resources on Assessment
ASCD Resources for Blended Learning
ASCD Resources on Common Core
ASCD Resources on Data  
ASCD Resources for Educational Leadership
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The free ASCD application for iPad brings valuable professional development content to educators everywhere. The app enables you to read ASCD e-books and, if you're an ASCD member, access issues of our flagship publication, Educational Leadership. Members will also be able to access ASCD newsletters, including Education Update and Policy Priorities. Download the app. 

Browse EL, Our Blog, and Many Other Educator Resources on ASCD's Mobile Site
Whether you'd like to access an archived Educational Leadership article for today's faculty meeting or just want to read the latest education policy post in our Inservice blog, use ASCD's mobile site as your one-stop-shop for resources. Simply go to www.ascd.org on your mobile device to access the site and explore the wealth of resources we've opened to you. Visit our mobile site now  

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