November 25, 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
Happy Thanksgiving - Nov 26 
Winter Weather Preparedness 
IEMA, the NWS and the American Red Cross developed a winter weather preparedness guide that covers winter weather terms and tips for staying safe at home, in the car and at school. The guide is available on the Ready Illinois website at www.Ready.Illinois.gov. Winter weather preparedness tips also will be posted on the Ready Illinois Facebook  and Twitter.

Teachers, Parents Struggle With How To Address Terrorist Attacks In Paris With Children
The  Washington Post reports many teachers, parents, and community leaders are struggling with how to address children's concerns and questions about the recent terrorist attacks in Paris. Karen Murphy, the international director of Facing History and Ourselves, who trains history teachers says, "There has to be both a balance of acknowledging the truth of what happened and also not scaring kids. And it's really hard, because what happened is scary." Zainab Chaudry, the outreach manager for the Council on American-Islamic Relations in Maryland, said her organization has received more reports of Muslims students facing discrimination and harassments over the past year and that teachers need to help counter the false equivalency between ISIS and Islam as a whole.

Tips to Help Teachers Address Paris Attacks with Students
When addressing the recent terrorist attacks in Paris with elementary-school students, it's important to find out what they already know and focus equal time on peace-keeping efforts, suggests Judith Myers-Walls, a professor emerita at Purdue University. In this article, she also offers ways teachers can delve deeper into the cause and motivation of the attacks with middle- and high-school students. The Washington Post 

The Education Ministry in France has endorsed a leaflet intended to help teachers talk about the country's recent terrorist attacks with students. The materials include cartoons and addresses several questions, such as why such a tragedy would occur. The Guardian

Know Your IEIN?
Professional Development Requirement- IEIN Number * When registering and signing attendance for future professional development opportunities provided by school districts, ROE, professional association, or other approved ISBE Provider, you will be required to provide your IEIN which is your Illinois Educator Information Number. * Your personal IEIN can be found on the ELIS site, which is the ISBE site for licensure renewal and PD hour entry. * Please know your IEIN when registering and attending. This requirement protects YOU when ISBE decides to audit your attendance at events.


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 
Ten years ago, a group of 19 researchers and practitioners from the Harvard Graduate School of Education and Boston Public Schools developed a process for organizing the core work of schools. That process allowed teachers to collaboratively study a wide range of evidence and use what they learn to improve instruction. In this Educational Leadership article, the authors share eight steps of this "Data Wise" process that drives instructional improvement.

The 71st ASCD Annual Conference and Exhibit Show will be held in Atlanta, Ga., April 2-4, 2016. Keynote presenters will include Carol Dweck; Mike Schmoker; Manny Scott; Pedro Noguera and Alan Blankstein; and Shanna Peeples. The conference will have more than 200 sessions for educators of all roles and interests and special events for attendees to network with educators from across the world. Early bird pricing is available until Feb. 3, 2016.

"Accountability" is a word that carries all kinds of connotations: punishment, exposure and blame are a few of the negative associations that come to mind. In this blog post on ASCD EDge, Kenny McKee explains why he wants to shift the conversation on accountability to the idea of responsibility. What are schools and educators responsible for? What really matters in our schools? And is what matters the same as what gets measured?

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. Learn more.

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.Visit www.ascd.org/lila for more information.

Illinois Education News
   
School Security Task Force Last Meeting
The School Security and Standards Task Force, created by Public Act 98-695, is charged with researching school security and draft minimum standards for schools to provide a safer learning environment for the children of Illinois. Part of the task force's responsibility is to host a series of public meetings for input on this charge. The following meetings will be open to the public to share concerns and ideas for improving school safety.
  • December 2 - 6 p.m. - John A. Logan Community College, Building H, Room 127, Carterville
Learn more about the School Security and Standards Task Force here.

PARCC High School Testing Change Forms Available
 
PARCC High School Testing Change form is available here and due back to ISBE by 9 a.m. December 4, 2015.

ISBE Hot Topics
PARCC Score Toolkit - Communication tools for school leaders available

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
 
House-Senate Conference Committee Approves Framework to Improve K-12 Education
The House-Senate conference committee reached agreement on a proposal to improve K-12 education and replace No Child Left Behind. The agreement represents a compromise between the House-passed Student Success Act (H.R. 5) and the Senate-passed Every Child Achieves Act of 2015 (S. 1177). A summary of the framework approved by the conference committee can be found here. 

The White House hosted the first-ever Summit on Next Generation High Schools, welcoming students, educators, philanthropists, and entrepreneurs who are reinventing the high school experience to better empower students to seize opportunities in today's economy and expanding access to innovative science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) teaching and learning.  The summit was on the heels of new data showcasing the collective impact of recent federal and local efforts to improve high schools.  Figures released by the Alliance for Excellent Education, the America's Promise Alliance, Civic Enterprises, and the Everyone Graduates Center reveal a significant reduction in the percentage of students who do not complete high school on-time: from 1,015,946 students in 2008 to 744,193 students in 2012 -- a 27% decrease in only four years.

The Department will announce an intent to award over $20 million in federal grants through the  Investing in Innovation (i3) program to support the reform of high schools that serve a high percentage of low-income students.  This program supports organizations transforming education in communities across America by implementing innovative and proven strategies while building evidence of what works to address persistent challenges. Additionally, a wide-ranging community of businesses, non-profit organizations, foundations, and education leaders announced new steps to support next generation high schools (fact sheet).

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act -- enacted more than 40 years ago -- is six years overdue for revisions. This article charts changes in special education since the law took effect and considers the future of the law. Education Week

Transparency Agenda For Accreditation
Accreditation serves as an important protection for both students and taxpayers by assuring the quality of the postsecondary education system.  Since accreditation is a prerequisite for colleges' participation in federal student aid programs, it also plays a "gatekeeping" role in institutional access to the $150 billion annual investment in federal student aid.  However, there is broad agreement and a sense of urgency about the need for significant improvement in both the rigor and flexibility of accreditation.  Recognition that accreditation needs reform has intensified in recent years as a result of the failure of the Corinthian/Heald schools while fully accredited, as well as recommendations from the bipartisan National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity (NACIQI) in 2012 and 2015 and a report calling on the Department to strengthen its oversight of schools and accreditors by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in 2014. Last week, to help ensure the public can have confidence in the current accreditation system, the Administration announced a series of executive actions to improve accreditors' and the Department's oversight activities and move toward a new focus on student outcomes and transparency.  It also outlined a suite of legislative proposals to help guide Congressional action on improving and reforming accreditation (fact sheet).

The White House Council on Women and Girls recently held a summit to discuss challenges faced by girls of color. During the event to address opportunity gaps for girls seeking education and careers in science, technology, engineering and math, White House officials announced $118 mil­lion had been raised for pro­grams aiming to close the gap. National Journal

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!  

  
Know Your IEIN?
Professional Development Requirement- IEIN Number * When registering and signing attendance for future professional development opportunities provided by school districts, ROE, professional association, or other approved ISBE Provider, you will be required to provide your IEIN which is your Illinois Educator Information Number. * Your personal IEIN can be found on the ELIS site, which is the ISBE site for licensure renewal and PD hour entry. * Please know your IEIN when registering and attending. This requirement protects YOU when ISBE decides to audit your attendance at events.

Science is a Verb, not a Noun!, Craig Gaska, 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. 
 
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. Register here for Nov 30.  
    
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.

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

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. 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 am - 3:30 pm, 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-PERA--From Joint Committee to Student Growth, Jennifer Garrison, Feb 10, 2016, Forest View Educational Center, Arlington Heights, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
This workshop will share how one district successfully collaborated to make decisions at the local joint committee level to design a teacher evaluation plan aligned to PERA requirements. A student growth model based on Student Learning Objectives developed by the Sandoval CUSD #501 and the joint committee will be shared. Attendees will develop an action plan to implement in their own districts. Attention will be paid to the make-up of the Joint Committee Timeline, PERA implementation timeline and the components of the professional development necessary to implement a student growth model. Teams will develop an action plan using the Sandoval Guideline/Toolkit and the  PEAC Guidance Student Learning Objective for Type 3 Assessments and the Guidance on Creating Operating Guidelines for Student Growth Models in Teacher Evaluation Systems. Six professional development hours, breakfast, lunch, parking. Forest View Educational Center, 2121 S. Goebbert Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60005. Register here.
 
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. 

NEW-Student-Centered Leadership: 10 Strategies Leaders Need to Know, PJ Caposey, Mar 15, 2016, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, Woodridge
This  course  offers  practical  strategies  that  will  help district  and  school  leaders  create  and maintain  an effective  student-centered  school  environment.  The session  will  provide  evidence  to show  the  relationship between leadership, student-centered practice and high academic  achievement. Participants  will  leave  with an understanding of how to analyze their leadership style and  current  school  practice.  They  will  also  learn practical techniques to create a plan for increasing the student-centered nature of their school.
OUTCOMES
  • Participants   will   be   able   to   demonstrate   an understanding  of  what    student-centered  leadership means and their influence as a leader in their school.
  • Participants  will  be  able  to  analyze,  develop  and communicate student-focused practices to the school community.
  • Participants will be able to examine their own leadership philosophies and behaviors and will assess their abilities to model and prioritize student-centered practices.
    Participants  will  communicate  their  leadership  story and learn to relate with all stakeholders of the school community  in  the  context  of  a  student-centered school environment.
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.   

Using Protocols to Guide Professional Learning, Conversations with Don Kachur (Administrator Academy #1544 ), Apr 7, 2016, Seven Bridges Golf Club, Woodridge, IL 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
Protocols are a tool for guiding professional learning conversations, whether they occur at grade level or department-level meetings, professional learning community team meetings, or any other meetings where educators are focused on improving student achievement. Protocols provide a structure or guide for conversations--a series of steps, each with a recommended time frame for completion that a group follows in fixed order, and they specify the roles different people in the group will play (typically a facilitator, a presenter, and participants). Participants in this workshop will learn of the value of protocols and how they are designed to structure conversations when educators within school groups study together, work on problems of practice, and examine student work and other data. Registration Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, 6 Professional Development hours or 6 Administrator Academy Credit.  Register here.   
 
Steve Oertle on Assessment, April 13, 2016 at NIU Naperville Campus, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm 
This is a dynamic workshop in which we will work our way up Bloom's Taxonomy over four separate sessions:
  • understanding the background on assessment research
  • applying the assessments
  • analyzing through application of the research
  • creating items for a common assessment
Registration includes, parking, breakfast, lunch, and 6 professional development hours.
Click here for flyer and registration.

The Illinois Resource Center invites you to An Evening With Tony Wagner, December 8, 2015, Hilton Chicago/OakBrook
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)

Leadership Legacy Summits, David Anderson, 3 sessions, Renaissance Hotel, Schaumburg, IL Attend one or all three!
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!
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 
From the Field
Statelessness needs to end if children are to have access to health care, jobs, education and other opportunities, says a report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. "In the short time that children get to be children, statelessness can set in stone grave problems that will haunt them throughout their childhoods and sentence them to a life of discrimination, frustration and despair," says Antonio Guterres, the refugee chief. Inter Press Service, Reuters/Thomson Reuters Foundation

Student Protests Cast Spotlight On Civil Rights, Free Speech
The AP covers the recent protests on college campuses and highlights the ongoing debate that these demonstrations have prompted concerning the protection civil rights while also honoring the guarantees of the First Amendment. Commenting on the issue of censorship, Samantha Harris, director of policy research at the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education, stated that, "Students increasingly seem to be arriving on campus believing that there is a generalized right not to be offended," and defined students' demand for censorship "a troubling trend." However, some student activists responded that the First Amendment is not a legitimate defense if it is invoked in absolution of marginalizing speech or actions. Concerning the debate, American Association of University of Professors Vice President Henry Reichman argued that the line between harassment and free speech, although difficult to locate, exists and it is the job of faculty members to better educate students concerning its nuances.
 
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 
USA Today: Standardized Tests Should Be Streamlined
In an editorial, USA Today argues that standardized tests need to be streamlined, but they shouldn't be eliminated, nor should test progress be dropped from teacher evaluations. The article says that statewide annual testing "in the basics" should continue, as should making school-by-school scores public. USA Today says the Administration should also, "Acknowledge that the federal government is too far away to manage schools," and should therefore, "Leave more of the governance to teachers, principals, local school districts and states."

Educator Offers 4 Models of Co-teaching Instruction
Co-teachers should try various models to find what works to meet the needs of all learners in the classroom, instructional coach Elizabeth Stein writes in this blog post. She offers an overview of four co-teaching models, how they work and links to resources. MiddleWeb

"Differentiation is critical to accommodate the needs of learners so that each is being uniquely challenged," writes Kevin Scott in this Inservice blog post. Scott also shares that, "In my experience, the best teachers I've seen were able to place differentiation into the students' hands. This may be tricky in certain situations, but allowing students to make their own choices and implementing strategies like genius hours or 20% time can make a valuable and long-lasting impression on differentiation." Read on.

A growing number of US elementary schools are teaching social and emotional learning, in which students become aware of their feelings and learn how to handle them. "The neural pathways in the brain that deal with stress are the same ones that are used for learning," said Marc Brackett, director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. The New York Times

PARCC Unbundles Testing System
States now can purchase test questions from the system developed by the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers, according to a recent announcement by the group. The new tiered system includes several customization options. The move seeks to provide "different tiers of participation and opportunities for customization," said Laura Slover, PARCC's chief executive officer. T.H.E. Journal, Education Week
 
PARCC High School Testing Change Forms Available
PARCC High School Testing Change form is  available here and due back to ISBE by 9 a.m. December 4, 2015.

PARCC Score Reports are on Their Way!
Some school districts are beginning to receive PARCC score reports for their high school students and reports will be arriving home in some states very soon. Do you know what to expect from the reports? Watch this video featuring three educators walking through the score report and discussing how to make the most of the information provided in them. For more information on the reports and tips on how to support students in their learning, follow @AcademicCheckup on Twitter and visit UnderstandTheScore.org.

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
The Fulbright-Hays Seminars Abroad Program provides K-16 educators with unique opportunities for overseas experience. The program is open to teachers and administrators with responsibilities for curriculum development in fields related to the arts, humanities, languages, and area studies. Topics and host countries vary annually, although all seminars are held outside of Western Europe. There are seminars being offered this summer in Peru, India, and Senegal. The deadline to submit applications is December 9.

Vacancy:  Superintendent, Mercer County SD 404, Aledo, IL
Click here to download or view the Job Description.Applications are only accepted online  by noon on Nov 30, 2015.  Please click here to apply.  For further information, please visit the IASB website.

NEW-Vacancy:  Superintendent of Schools, Township High School District 113, Highland Park, Illinois
Description:  The Township High School District 113 Board of Education announces the commencement of a search for a new Superintendent of Schools who will assume responsibilities on July 1, 2016.  This is an outstanding career opportunity for a qualified and experienced professional administrator to provide leadership to a two campus, grades 9-12, school district in the highly desirable North Shore suburban area of Chicago, Illinois.  District 113 serves students from the communities of Deerfield, Highland Park, Bannockburn, Highwood and Riverwoods. The district is served by two high schools, Highland Park High School and Deerfield High School. The total combined student population is approximately 3,700. District 113 students are high achieving and perform well above state averages on all standardized measures. Approximately 95% of students matriculate to institutions of higher learning.  The schools are supported by a highly qualified and committed faculty and by a dedicated Board of Education. A very competitive salary and benefit package will be offered. Additional information about the school district may be found at www.dist113.org.
Application Procedure:  Interested candidates need to complete the online application process at www.bwpassociates.com.  This will be a "rolling search" with applications reviewed as they are submitted. Candidates are urged to respond as soon as possible but no later than January 4, 2016.  Application materials should include the following: a completed online Applicant Data Form; letter of interest; resume; a brief description of major professional accomplishments; College/University transcripts; four to six letters of recommendation; and evidence of eligibility to be a Superintendent in Illinois.  All of the required materials may be submitted online at www.bwpassociates.com. Application materials will be treated confidentially. Applicants are requested not to contact members of the Board of Education.  Each candidate will be informed of the Board's selection and appointment of the new Superintendent. The final selection and appointment is the sole responsibility of the Board of Education.
For additional information, please contact one of the BWP search consultants:  Dr. Mark Friedman at 847-975-8393, Dr. Anne Noland at 630-624-3336, or Dr. Debra Hill at 847-204-0462.

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

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.
http://www.labelsforeducation.com/About/about-the-program.aspx
 
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
Building the Principal Pipeline
School leadership is second only to teaching among school influences on student success, according to research.  So what can a school district do to produce a large and steady supply of top-notch school principals and support their effective supervision? Building Principal Pipelines: A Strategy to Strengthen Education Leadership provides an overview of two related efforts by The Wallace Foundation to answer that question and outlines some early lessons learned.

Study Examines Mobile Device Use Among Young Children
Almost 97% of parents said their children used mobile devices, most of whom started before their first birthday, according to a study published in Pediatrics. The findings, based on a survey of 289 parents of 350 children who lived in a low-income, urban, minority community, showed three-fourths of the children owned their own mobile device at age 4; 20% had their own tablet at age 1; 28% can navigate a mobile device on their own at age 2; and 21% own a gaming console at age 4.USA Today

Researchers found adolescents who were exposed to emotional neglect had an abnormal decrease in the response of the ventral striatum to reward processing, which predicted the emergence of depressive symptoms. The findings in the journal Biological Psychiatry were based on MRI scans of 106 adolescents, ages 11 to 15, who underwent a second brain scan two years later.Science World Report

Data: 9% of US Public-school Students are ELL
About 5 million students in the US -- or 9% of public-school enrollment -- are English-language learners, with almost 80% of ELL students coming from Spanish-speaking homes, data show. Reports show improved achievement among ELL students since No Child Left Behind took effect. Education Next

Report: School Improvement Grants Yield Mixed Results
The US has spent about $7 billion on School Improvement Grants. A recent report reveals about two-thirds of schools receiving the grants showed improvement in math and reading. Data show the other one-third remained flat or slid backward.The Washington Post

Continued Progress: Promising Evidence on Personalized Learning
While the concept of personalized learning has been around for some time, advances in technology and digital content have placed personalized learning within reach for an increasing number of schools. A new report from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and RAND Corporation found that students in schools using personalized learning strategies made greater academic progress, over the course of two years, than a comparison group of similar students.

ACT Releases 2015 STEM Report
The Condition of STEM 2015 is now available on the ACT website. This is the third edition of our annual Condition of STEM report series.
Publications
Sparking Student Creativity: Practical Ways to Promote Innovative Thinking and Problem Solving
In Sparking Student Creativity, author and researcher Patti Drapeau explores and explains research related to creativity and its relevance in today's standards-based, critical thinking-focused classroom. No matter what grade levels or content areas you teach, this book will help you to produce creative lesson components that directly address critical content, target specific standards, and require thoughtful products from students as they grow into independent learners and become successful adults. Read a sample chapter.

As a teacher, you work hard to make a positive difference in the lives of your students. But this kind of progress doesn't happen overnight, and it doesn't happen accidentally. It's the result of intentionality, planning, effort, and thought. In this book, authors Pete Hall and Alisa Simeral help you deepen your thinking and reflect on your capacity as an educator so you can take charge of your own professional growth.
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.

 
Why are Chromebooks so Popular Among Educators?
About 2.5 million Chromebooks were shipped to schools in the first half of this year. This article highlights six reasons the devices may be so popular in schools, including their price point -- $200 a piece. eSchool News

Veteran educator and education-technology consultant Ann McMullan shares six tips to help teachers create innovative lessons in a digital age. Tips include starting with small changes to help avoid becoming overwhelmed by the process. eSchool News

EA Sports, in collaboration with Discovery Education and the NFL Players Association, will release "Madden NFL: Football by the Numbers" on Dec. 1. The new game will be free to educators, students and parents and will focus on teaching science and math to fifth- through ninth-graders. Education Week

Microsoft and Code.org will use Minecraft to teach students computer programming. The initiative will give students access to a tutorial and 14 Minecraft levels through the Code.org website. Bloomberg

Use These Resources to Become a Better School Leader
To be effective, school leaders must learn how to build strong relationships and should look for ways to sharpen their skills. This article offers a list of resources to help leaders in their professional development, including ideas on how to build safer schools and approach topics such as discipline and connecting with parents. Edudemic

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

10 Tips to Help Schools Share Blended-learning Efforts
Communications planning may not top school leaders' to-do lists when implementing a blended-learning initiative, but it should be a cornerstone of the process, writes Kira Keane, a communications and public affairs specialist. Keane offers a step-by-step communications process to help school leaders share blended-learning goals. EdSurge

There are many ways that teachers are using blended learning experiences in their classrooms, but these hybrid experiences don't need to begin and end with students. In the spirit of Connected Educator Month, ASCD author William Kist shares many different blended experiences that can enrich educator PD in this Inservice blog post. When you use these yourself, you'll also be discovering the best ways to take advantage of these kinds of opportunities with your students.

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
ASCD's PD In Focus platform gives you and your colleagues online access to ASCD's extensive library of videos demonstrating effective teaching practices. Each video clip is designed to be used with additional provided resources in group learning.
The premier collaborative, on-demand professional development system for professional learning communities, schools, districts, and states, PD In Focus has the features you need to integrate video into your PD, including
  • Hundreds of hours of classroom examples that bring successful teaching to life
  • Group discussion boards.
  • Search by topic, grade level, subject area, classroom type, pedagogy, and more.
  • Ability to suggest assignments and monitor learning activity.
Your free 14-day trial includes access to all channels and topics. Explore the potential of PD In Focus to create powerful, ongoing professional development that is differentiated to all kinds of users and groups. Learn more about PD In Focus and start your free trial today!

ASCD -- There's An App For That
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  

Follow us on Twitter ASCD has five Twitter channels, each intended to connect you with different aspects of our work and the latest developments in our field. Stay current on education news, policy developments and general education discussion by following @ASCD our main channel. Don't forget to take advantage of additional opportunities to connect with ASCD experts in real time.  Engage ASCD blogger Laura Varias @ASCD_Inservice, join the Whold Child team for important updates @WholeChildAdv, get the latest ASCD resources from @ascdmember and follow the Educational Leadership team @Ed_Leadership.Connect with all five channels   
ASCD curates six boards that are home to pins on topics ranging from professional development to a whole child approach to education. 
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This electronic publication is sent to you every other Wednesday. This is a benefit brought to you as part of your membership in Illinois ASCD. We hope you will share with other educators. "Education Briefs is an electronic publication of Illinois ASCD and not a publication of ASCD and the views expressed or implied should not be construed as official positions of Illinois ASCD nor ASCD."

Sincerely,
Illinois ASCD