March 02, 2016
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Mission Statement:
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IL ASCD NEWS
CHECK OUT IL ASCD website at  www.illinoisascd.org
International School Meals Day - Mar 3
March 13 - Daylight Saving Time Begins 2 am - Spring Forward!
Enjoy your Spring Break!
 
Schools around the world are encouraged to celebrate International School Meals Day on March 3 by promoting healthy eating and learning, using the theme "Fresh and Local Foods."
 
ASCD and BAM! Radio Network, the largest all-education talk radio network in the world, have announced a new program for educators, "ASCD Learn Teach Lead Radio," beginning on March 1. The new show will have weekly episodes hosted by ASCD Emerging Leaders and featuring guests such as ASCD authors, leaders, and practitioners from all roles. The program will provide real educators with a platform to engage in meaningful dialogue about the topics and issues that matter most in education. 

Should Schools Change Approach to Black History Month?
February is Black History Month, which this year has been marked by calls from some to reconsider how the nation -- and schools -- mark the month. Some educators say setting aside a specific month for such lessons can lead to less integration of the topic throughout the school year. The Atlantic online

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.   

Archived issues of ILASCD Education Briefs are now available on our website. 
 

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 
Throughout February, ASCD is celebrating our inaugural Affiliate Appreciation Month, and in this letter in the latest Education Update, ASCD Executive Director and CEO Deb Delisle extends her gratitude to those who make ASCD affiliates great. "You are the embodiment of ASCD's presence in your home states, provinces, territories and countries. Your role is essential to ASCD and our mission to promote the success of each child," she writes. 

ASCD Legislative Agenda Calls for Coherent System to Support the Whole Learner 
ASCD has released its 2016 Legislative Agenda, calling on policymakers and stakeholders to align educational programs and create a coherent system to support and develop the whole learner, from early childhood to graduation. The agenda, developed by ASCD's legislative committee -- a diverse cross section of ASCD members from the entire spectrum of K-12 education -- includes specific recommendations divided into three key areas: conditions for learning, whole child accountability and educator leadership and support. 

ASCD and Education International (EI), the voice for education employees across the globe, have released a joint statement applauding the establishment of the stand-alone education goal as part of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recently ratified at the United Nations. Together, ASCD and EI are calling for a clear definition of quality education that focuses on the whole child and places the needs of the child at the fore.

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. 
 
At this three-day institute before the 2016 ASCD Annual Conference in Atlanta, Ga., the authors of Leading for Differentiation will provide an opportunity to explore with fellow leaders the tools and strategies necessary to deepen the motivation, learning and practices of teachers who are responsible for ensuring the growth of the full spectrum of learners in today's schools. From March 30 to April 1, participants will learn what they can do to successfully and collaboratively initiate, implement and institutionalize differentiated instruction practices. 

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:
Illinois Education News

Primary Election March 15
Early Voting Schedule
  • Grace Period Registration and Voting - February 17 through March 15, 2016
  • Early Voting - February 4 through March 14, 2016
Please also contact your local election authority for early voting hours and locations.

State of Illinois 2017 Budget Roadmap  
Click Here.

IL Education Board Grants Bond Authority to Districts
The Illinois State Board of Education this week granted 29 school districts the authority to borrow more than $495 million through a federal construction bond program. Under the program, schools can use the money for renovations and new construction projects and the interest paid on the loans is reimbursed by the federal government. Daily Herald
The Illinois State Board of Education is beginning negotiations with the College Board to begin using the SAT for high-school students. The board denied a protest from ACT, which previously had been contracted by the state to provide tests free of charge to high-school juniors. Belleville News-Democrat

Illinois Launches Financial Probe Into Chicago Public Schools
The Illinois State Board of Education initiated an investigation Thursday into the "financial stability" of the Chicago Public Schools (CPS), a move that builds off Republican Governor Bruce Rauner's call for a state takeover of the cash-strapped district. Read more by Reuters

Illinois Budget Impasse Drags On While Governor Proposes Budget For Next Fiscal Year 
Reuters reports Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner announced a plan to ensure the state's schools have public funding for the upcoming fiscal year while the state still struggles with a budget impasse for the current year. Under the new plan, the state will fully fund Illinois schools for the first time in seven years. Rauner has refused to pass a school spending bill for the current fiscal year unless the state's Democratic legislators agree on his Turnaround Agenda. The ongoing budget impasse has already led to layoffs and program cuts at state institutions and social-service providers and is expected to lead to more such closures if it continues. The 
Chicago Sun-Times includes excerpts from Rauner's planned speech to the legislature, "We must make the education of our children our top priority. The one thing I won't back down on - the one thing that's non-negotiable for me - is increasing education funding." The Chicago Tribune points out that with the governor's plan it is possible the state will pass a budget for the upcoming fiscal year before it passes a budget for the current fiscal year. Rauner described the conundrum, "It's hard to give a budget speech for a state that doesn't have a budget. But you know what? It's not really about the budget. It's about the future direction of Illinois." The article details the political differences between Governor Rauner, a Republican, and the Democratic state legislators.

House Education Funding Task Force
The House Education Funding Task Force met on Tuesday to discuss the impact of SB 16/SB 1 on primarily suburban school districts. Superintendents and business officials from Schaumburg School District 54, Township High School District 211, CCSD 59 (Arlington Heights), Mundelein HSD 120, and Hawthorne District 73 all spoke about the potential impact of a funding lost they would sustain under either Senate Bill 16 or Senate Bill 1. The task force will continue to meet to take testimony from education officials in the coming months. View an archive of the meeting here.

Gov. Rauner Creates Cabinet to Deal With Children's Issues
Gov. Bruce Rauner signed an executive order Thursday establishing the Governor's Cabinet on Children and Youth, which will seek to streamline child education services statewide.

ISBE Begins Negotiations With SAT; No Funding Yet For Spring Admin
On February 10, the Chief Procurement Officer for General Services, the protest filed by ACT was denied. As such ISBE has begun the process of negotiating a contract with the College Board to administer the SAT as a college entrance assessment for Spring 2016. However, ISBE does not have an appropriation for administering assessments due to the budget impasse. Read more FAQ's about the process  here.

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
 
The recent death of US Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia could affect the outcome of a case to determine whether public employee unions can require members to pay dues. Scalia was expected to be the deciding vote, which would have ended the practice of mandatory collection of such fees, court observers said. The court is expected to rule on the issue by June. EdSource
 
Analysis Explores How King Will Implement ESSA
An analysis in the Deseret (UT) News explores how Education Secretary John King could influence the implementation and regulation of ESSA during his relatively brief tenure, noting that the law makes ED theoretically "much less powerful than it was." The piece describes the role that former Education Secretary Arne Duncan played under NCLB, and reports that King has hinted at how he may proceed by emphasizing "educational equity, diversity and integration in schools."

ESSA Supports Universal Design for Learning
The Every Student Succeeds Act supports universal design for learning -- an instructional strategy meant to support the diverse needs of all learners. The law calls on states to incorporate UDL principles in assessment design and literacy education. It also allows use of federal funding to support the method. Education Week 

FCC Seeks to Expand Student Access to Broadband Internet
The Federal Communications Commission is expected next month to overhaul a $2 billion phone-subsidy program, called Lifeline, to help make broadband Internet affordable for low-income families. The move seeks to ensure all students have access to the Internet, helping to bridge the digital divide. The New York Times 

Education Department Focuses on Racial Bias in Special Education
The US Department of Education recently proposed a rule to help identify and end racial bias in special education. Part of the rule includes requiring states to adopt a standardized system for determining whether minority students are overrepresented in special-education courses. The Associated Press 
 

Obama Takes Aim at K-12 Absenteeism

President Barack Obama is seeking to curb absenteeism among K-12 students with two new initiatives. The proposal calls for the My Brother's Keeper program to introduce "Success Mentors" and for a national campaign to educate parents about the effects of chronic absenteeism. Education Week, The Washington Post
 

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

2015-2016 Cohort, LAST 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. 
 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. 

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.

Performance-Based Assessment in the Classroom, Jay McTighe, Mar 17, 2016, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, Bobak's Signature Events, 6440 Double Eagle Dr.,Woodridge, IL
Design authentic performance tasks to promote meaningful learning and measure what matters most! Curriculum-embedded performance tasks are intended to engage students in applying their knowledge and skills in authentic and relevant contexts.  Authentic tasks can serve as both rich learning activities and assessments of understanding and transfer.  In this workshop, we'll apply practical and proven tools and templates for designing authentic tasks and associated rubrics aligned to core standards and 21st century skills. Participants will:
  • describe the "big picture" of how performance assessments fit into a standards-based system;
  • use a planning framework for selecting assessment methods for your classroom, school or district;
  • apply a variety of practical tools and templates for designing more authentic tasks for your classroom, school or district;
  • review the use of criterion-based scoring tools (rubrics, performance lists) for evaluating and enhancing the quality of student products and performances;
  • identify print and online resources to support the expanded use of performance-based assessments.
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.

Transitioning Students to Appropriate Assessments in Math in the CCSS/PARCC World, Anita Reid, Apr 6, 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.

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.   
 
Assessment 201 with Steve Oertle, April 13, 2016, NIU Naperville Campus, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm  
Attendees will collaboratively review, evaluate and revise their own standard-aligned classroom assessments.  A 30-minute overview of the components of high quality local assessments will allow the remainder of the training to lead participants through analyzing and revising the assessments they bring.  The workshop will address paper/pencil assessments, rubric creation, performance tasks and incorporation of student learning objectives (SLOs).  Feedback will be modeled and a large part of the process.  Attendees will potentially leave the workshop with their classroom assessments reviewed, revised and at least partially completed.  Bring materials or laptop with an electronic version. Registration includes, parking, breakfast, lunch, and 6 professional development hours. 
Click here for flyer and registration.

An Evaluator's Guide to the SLO Process for Monitoring Student Growth, Jennie Winters (Administrator Academy Course #1679), Apr 21, 2016, SIU Carbondale, IL, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
This Academy will guide administrators in understanding their role in the SLO (Student Learning Objective) Process.  Evaluators will understand the components of an SLO.  They will evaluate the rigor of the SLO by examining the standards that are chosen and the assessment resources that will be utilized.  They will learn strategies to facilitate development of SLOs and Type III assessments, as well as to monitor the SLO process. Jennie Winters will explain the variety of types of assessments that can be used in a Balanced Assessment System, with a focus on Type III assessments for the purpose of evaluation.  Registration includes parking, breakfast, lunch and 6 professional development hours. Register here.

Science is a Verb, not a Noun!, Craig Gaska, 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.

School Leadership Practices for Transforming the Attitudes of At-Risk Students, Baruti Kafele, May 5, 2016, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, Goodman Center of Roosevelt University, 501 S. Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605
The complex role of the educational leader is the most important role in bridging the attitude gap!  In this high-energy, highly-interactive workshop, Principal Kafele discusses the characteristics of an effective leadership team in an underperforming school comprised of an at-risk student population.  He will outline what he did to lead the transformation for four low-performing public schools in New Jersey.  Before we can focus on closing the achievement gap, we must first focus on closing the attitude gap-the gap between those students who have the will to strive for excellence and those who do not.  Registration includes continental breakfast, lunch, parking, and 6 professional development hours.  Register here. 

13th Annual Illinois Latino Law Forum, March 5, 2016, DePaul  University College of Law, 25 E Jackson, Chicago, IL
Junior high, high school and college students come together once a year to participate in this unique program. It includes an introduction to the study of law from the perspective of fellow Latinos, the opportunity to meet prominent Latino lawyers and judges from Illinois, and discussions with Latino high school, college and law students committed to promoting diversity in the field of law. Registration required. More details soon. Contact Jessica Rodriguez or Elizabeth Rutiaga at llsa.depaul@gmail.com 
 
Leadership Legacy Summits, David Anderson, 2 sessions left, Renaissance Hotel, Schaumburg, IL
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!
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
Breakfast Program In Woodland District 50 Equals Fewer Visits to School Nurse
Students in Woodland District 50 are visiting the school nurse less often since the launch of a districtwide breakfast program. Data show about an 82% decrease in hunger-related visits since the program launched last September. My/SuburbanLife.com

How One Superintendent Fosters Innovation in Classrooms
Innovation and creativity are top priorities for John Asplund, superintendent of the Farmington school district in Illinois. Asplund says he fosters a risk-taking culture at the schools by giving faculty and staff the support they need and encouraging them to stretch beyond their comfort zones.  Education Week

Expert Calls for Increased Awareness of Needs of All Children
Pediatricians and other professionals working with young children hope that the water crisis in Flint, Mich., will bring attention to the needs of all children, especially those in poor social conditions who experience the same stressors that the city's children face, writes Dr. Neal Weinberg, president of the Michigan Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Weinberg writes that the evidence-based programs "that are essential for the children in Flint to recover and thrive are the basic tools that are essential for children everywhere." Detroit Free Press

Which Nations Lead in Educating Struggling Students?
Many countries or regions with the highest-performing students also have the smallest numbers of low-performing students, according to a report from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. These include Shanghai, China; Hong Kong; South Korea; Estonia and Vietnam, in all of which less than 5% of students performed at the lowest levels on the Program for International Student Assessment.The Hechinger Report

Gordon Brown: Why We Must Establish a Fund For Education in Crises
Attendees at the upcoming world humanitarian summit will consider a proposal to set up a humanitarian fund to provide education in emergencies such as the ongoing Syrian war, writes Gordon Brown, United Nations special envoy for global education. Such a fund would enable educational efforts to begin quickly, he notes. The Huffington Post

Apple's Cook Fights Federal Court Order on iPhone Unlocking
Apple will challenge a federal court order requiring the company to build a way for the FBI to access encrypted data on the iPhone in order to help the agency's investigation into the recent San Bernardino, Calif., terrorist attacks. CEO Tim Cook said the request for a "backdoor" into the iPhone would "undermine the very freedoms and liberty our government is meant to protect."  CNET,  Reuters

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 
Preschoolers should be learning math facts and strategies, Vanderbilt University psychology professor Bethany Rittle-Johnson says in this Q&A. She outlines how teachers can structure exercises to model such skills and move away from worksheets and simple memorization lessons. Education Week Teacher

Students Earn Scholarship Credits Via Website
Some students are using a free online service called Raise.me to secure scholarship funding at about 100 participating universities. Students enter existing accomplishments and then receive credits that will turn into scholarship funding if a student is accepted and enrolls at a participating school. The New York Times

Participants Sought for PARCC New Early Adopter Program
School districts are invited to participate in a recently launched set of diagnostic assessments. The Diagnostics Early Adopter Program provides extended access to the tools through June 2016 and a reduced purchase price for 2016-17. This opportunity is open to districts in both PARCC and non-PARCC states. The Diagnostic Assessments are designed to provide immediate, instructionally-useful information about how well students have learned (or how prepared they are to learn) key content and skills tied to the Common Core State Standards in English language arts/literacy and mathematics. Educators are encouraged to use the tools to target appropriate instructional support and enrichment activities for students, and more efficiently monitor student progress on key concepts throughout the school year.  Districts may  register for the Diagnostics Early Adopter Program through April 2016. For more information on the assessments, please click here.

Computer coding is in the national spotlight, thanks in part to President Barack Obama pledging billions of dollars to support teaching the subject in schools. Some say computer education is about more than coding and should encompass "algorithmic thinking." Others contend it should include more hands-on applications of coding. National Public Radio

Formative assessment expert Shirley Clarke in this blog post focuses on the shortcomings of ability grouping in the classroom, calling for a different approach. She highlights alternatives such as the Deliberate Practice bull's-eye chart, which helps students move through three learning zones. Education Week

Analysis: State Comparisons are Difficult Under Common Core
It is still difficult to compare student performance across states -- a chief goal of the Common Core State Standards -- according to a recent analysis by the American Institutes for Research. Data show many states use different definitions for "proficient."  The Washington Post

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-Exciting Opportunity for Administrator Leaders: 
There are currently 32 National Board
Professional Development Schools in Illinois led by administrator leaders. The NBRC is expanding this program to include an additional twenty schools/districts to take part in this opportunity. Members of the National Board Professional Development Schools will spend a year or more fostering personal and professional growth as they build collegial relationships. Application submissions are due March 21, 2016. Learn more here.

NEW-Vacancy -Midland CUSD 7, Sparland, IL Superintendent Position
Click here to download or view the Announcement of Vacancy.  Applications are only accepted online by noon, Mar 16, 2016.  Please click here to apply.  For further information, please visit the IASB website.

NEW-Vacancy-MorrisSD #54 Superintendent Position
Click here to download or view the Announcement of Vacancy. Applications are only accepted online by noon, Apr 1, 2016. Please click here to apply.  For further information, please visit the IASB website.

Vacancy-Creve Coeur SD 76 Superintendent Position
Click here to download or view the Announcement of Vacancy. Applications are only accepted online by noon, Mar 3, 2016.  Please click here to apply. For further information, please visit the IASB website. 

Vacancy-Lyons Elem SD 103 Superintendent Position
Click here to download or view the Announcement of Vacancy.  Applications are only accepted online by noon on Mar 4, 2016.  Please click here to apply.  For further information, please visit the IASB website.

Vacancy-Principal, Hubbard Woods School, K-4, Winnetka School District 36, Winnetka, IL
Description:  Winnetka School District 36 seeks a principal for the Hubbard Woods School beginning July 1, 2016 or earlier. Hubbard Woods School is a K-4 facility with a student population of approximately 250. This is a twelve-month position with a highly competitive salary and benefit package.
Winnetka School District 36 is a prestigious school district located in the highly desirable North Shore area of suburban Chicago. It has been acknowledged for its focus on the "whole child" as well as for an extensive offering of programs and extracurricular activities for its student population. District 36 nurtures a unique environment known for its intimacy, small class size, personal attention, progressive educational philosophy and family-like atmosphere. Students matriculating from the Winnetka schools attend the highly regarded New Trier High School. This exciting and unique opportunity will afford the career-minded professional a chance to work with a collegial administrative team, and as a part of a collaborative leadership model. The new principal will have the opportunity to undertake numerous experiences in all phases of school and district leadership. It is therefore anticipated and expected that this will be a highly competitive search.  The ideal candidate will have a strong record of accomplishment as an effective instructional leader, outstanding communication skills, a collaborative philosophy and the ability to involve all stakeholders in the continuing process of positive growth and change. Experience and knowledge of developmental and research based instructional practices for grades K-4 is desired.
Application Procedure:  This will be a "Rolling Search" with applications being screened as they are submitted, beginning February 10, 2016. It is anticipated that formal interviews will be conducted in mid to late March 2016. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible but no later than March 12, 2016.  To complete an online Applicant Data Form and electronically submit a resume, letter of interest, three up-to-date letters of reference, proof of appropriate licensure and copies of transcripts, 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 or Dr. Joe Porto at 847-533-3587.

US Dept of Education Summer Internships
The Department is accepting applications for summer 2016 internships through March 15.  Interns will have an opportunity to learn about federal education policy while developing a variety of other skills, including communication, researching, and writing.  They will also participate in group events, such as lunches with senior agency officials, local tours, and movie nights.

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
Survey: How Instructional Materials are Changing Under Common Core
In a recent survey, 82% of math teachers reported altering at least half of their instructional materials, and 72% of English-language arts teachers reported doing the same to align with Common Core State Standards, according to a report from the Center for Education Policy Research. Data show about a third of educators surveyed use free online resources to help teach the new standards. Education Week 

New Studies Reaffirm PARCC as One of Nation's Premier Tests
Two recently released independent studies found the PARCC assessment to be one of the strongest systems to assess student readiness for the next grade level and for college and careers. The studies, conducted by the Thomas B. Fordham Institute (elementary and middle school) and the Human Resources Research Organization (HumRRO, high school) are just the latest in a string of independent studies that have found PARCC to be a national leader in quality assessments. PARCC received the highest marks possible for measuring of students' mastery of English language arts, the highest ratings for measuring vocabulary skills, and highlighted PARCC's use of evidence-based questions. PARCC also received high marks in many other areas. These reports definitively confirm what we've been saying for some time - PARCC is the highest-quality, best-in-class assessment available," said Hanna Skandera, Secretary of Education for the New Mexico Public Education Department and Chair of the PARCC Governing Board. "Since the inception of PARCC, we've been committed to giving our parents and schools the information they deserve to help our kids reach their full potential." More >>

Evaluating the Content and Quality of Next Generation Assessments
This report examines previously unreleased items from three multi-state tests (ACT Aspire, PARCC, and Smarter Balanced) and one best-in-class state assessment, Massachusetts' state exam (MCAS), to answer policymakers' most pressing questions: Do these tests reflect strong content? Are they rigorous? What are their strengths and areas for improvement?

Studies Reveal Benefits of Diverse Educational Settings
More school districts are focusing on school integration for students of color and low-income students, and are finding educational benefits, according to two recent reports. Potential benefits include better test scores, increased college attendance and improved critical-thinking skills. The Atlantic online

Study: Make Students Aware of Scientists' Struggles
Students who learn about how famous scientists struggled in their studies and research may perform better in science, according to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology. Researchers compared outcomes for students who read about scientists' struggles with those who read only about their successes. "Many students don't realize that all successes require a long journey with many failures along the way," lead researcher Xiaodong Lin-Siegler said. United Press International

Study: Exceptional Work May Not Inspire Struggling Students
Examples of other students' exceptional work may not be the best tool for boosting the performance of students who are struggling academically, according to studies published in the journal Psychological Science. Researchers compared outcomes for more than 5,700 students enrolled in an online class. Education Week

Researchers Examine Prevalence of PTSD Among Teen ED Patients
Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder were reported by 23.2% of teens who sought care at emergency departments, with 13.9% showing moderate or higher depressive symptoms and 11.3% having had suicidal thoughts in the previous year, according to a study in the journal General Hospital Psychiatry. Researchers surveyed 353 adolescents aged 13 to 17 who visited the ED between August 2013 and March 2014, and found 58.9% reported being exposed to community violence, 46.7% reported cyberbullying and 46.5% experienced physical peer violence. United Press International

An increase in diagnoses of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among young US children may be attributed to the ever-growing academic demands from adults, according to a study in JAMA Pediatrics. Researchers analyzed government statistics and previous research and found that children ages 6 to 8 spent over two hours a week on homework by 1997, compared with less than one hour in 1981. Fifty-eight percent of preschoolers were in full-day programs in the mid-2000s, compared with 17% in 1970, the research found. HealthDay News
Publications
The Principal Influence
The new ASCD book, The Principal Influence: A Framework for Developing Leadership Capacity in Principals, introduces the ASCD Principal Leadership Development Framework (PLDF). The PLDF establishes a clear and concise definition of leadership and includes clear targets that support the ongoing growth and development of leaders. This book provides tools and criteria of effective practice that will allow you to focus on behaviors that have the greatest direct effect on the culture and status of learning and teaching in your school.
Using the Framework, principals will learn to capitalize on their leadership roles:
  • Principal as Visionary
  • Principal as Instructional Leader
  • Principal as Engager
  • Principal as Learner and Collaborator
Whether you want to develop your own capacities or support the development of a group of principals, assistant principals, or aspiring principals, The Principal Influence can help channel your efforts in ways that promote successful teaching and student learning.

Leading With Focus
In Leading with Focus: Elevating the Essentials for School and District Improvement, best-selling ASCD author Mike Schmoker builds on the three core elements described in his 2011 book Focus: Elevating the Essentials to Radically Improve Student Learning to show administrators, principals, and other education leaders how to apply his model to the work of running schools and districts. The three core elements are: a focused and coherent curriculum; clear, structured lessons; and purposeful reading and writing, or authentic literacy. In this new book, Schmoker offers
  • An overview of the case for simple, focused school and district leadership.
  • Examples of real schools and districts that have embraced focused leadership.
  • A practical, flexible, and easy-to-follow implementation guide.
All students deserve to learn in schools where educators eschew distractions and superfluous activities to concentrate on what's most important. To that end, Leading with Focus is an essential resource for leaders ready to streamline their practice and focus their efforts on radically improving student learning.
 
Igniting Teacher Leadership
In the new ASCD Arias short-form book Igniting Teacher Leadership: How do I empower my teachers to lead and learn?, William Sterrett explains how effective leadership leads to better teachers, who in turn design more powerful learning experiences, empower students, and create better schools. Sterrett offers strategies and examples for fostering teacher leadership, facilitating professional learning, and promoting "growing habits" to help translate key points into practical action steps.
This ASCD Arias short-form book is designed to be read in one sitting with tips and techniques that can be immediately put into practice.  ASCD Arias are available in print and e-book version.


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.


RESOURCES: 

Disrupting Poverty: Creating a Poverty Literate Culture for Student Success, March 17, 3:00 p.m. ET, Register Now
Join ASCD authors William Parrett and Kathleen Budge in an engaging webinar where they will share practical strategies and specific examples to "jumpstart" your thinking about what it takes to disrupt poverty's adverse effects on learning to help your students succeed.

Twitter Tips for Nondigital Natives
Educators who are midcareer or nondigital natives may feel intimated by Twitter, but it can be a great platform for making connections and sharing knowledge, associate professor Rob Jenkins writes in this commentary. He offers six tips for Twitter newbies based on his recent introduction to the social networking service. The Chronicle of Higher Education

How to Engage, Educate with Virtual Field Trips
Virtual field trips can be a fun educational alternative to traditional field trips, Discovery Education's Kyle Schutt suggests. In this commentary, he shares five tips to help educators make the most of virtual field trips and notes that, in his experience, event-based virtual trips are most effective. eSchool News

Games can provide new ways to introduce students to coding, principal Kami Thordarson writes in this blog post. She describes three such games, including Google's Made with Code, which features characters from Pixar's "Inside Out."  SmartBrief/SmartBlog on Education

Blogs and social media are great ways to engage parents and keep them informed, according to Jessica Cabeen, the principal at Woodson Kindergarten Center in Austin, Minn. In this blog post, she writes about how educators embed video and also link blog posts to social media pages. SmartBrief/SmartBlog on Education

Toolkit Focuses on Helping School Leaders Close Digital Divide
The Consortium for School Networking has developed a toolkit to help school leaders close the digital divide. The Digital Equity Action Toolkit addresses issues such as community engagement and creative solutions for connectivity outside of school. The Hechinger Report,  eSchool News

Platform Offers Open Education Resources to Colleges, Universities
A new platform called panOpen offers Open Education Resources to colleges and universities. Faculty can choose from a library of peer-reviewed content on multiple subjects. The platform is designed to integrate with the school's existing learning management system.

Online Library Features Nonfiction Content for Science, Social Studies
Kids Discover Online is a Web library featuring nonfiction reading material in science and social studies for students in elementary and middle school. Teachers can search for content by subject and unit. Content is available in three Lexile reading levels.

National Geographic Learning is now offering print and digital resources for career and technical education. The resources include interactive features as well as tools for personalized learning and assessment. A catalog of offerings is available online.
 
How to Write a Powerful Education Tweet
In this commentary, Thomas Murray, digital-learning director for the Alliance for Excellent Education, shares several tips for writing education tweets. "Great tweets are relevant, usable, and/or thought-provoking for the viewer, thus it's imperative for educators to connect with others with similar passions and interests," he writes. eSchool News
 
To make sure that students do not leave money on the table, the Department has prepared a number of blog posts:
Also, Acting Secretary King recorded a video encouraging students to complete the FAFSA.Visit StudentAid.gov for complete information on federal financial aid, including types of aid available, qualification criteria, and managing loans.
Website Offers Resources for Using Tech With Struggling Learners
PowerUp WHAT WORKS offers resources and tools designed to help educators use technology to better support struggling students and learners with disabilities. The site offers curated materials for teachers, professional development coaches and school administrators.

Visit the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Accelerated Model Course Pathways - a resource that offers guidance to schools and districts seeking to organize NGSS performance expectations into a compressed time frame.
Website Offers Free Hands-on Science Activities
The Exploratorium, in San Francisco, has launched "Science Snacks," an online library of free hands-on science activities for students in grades 6-12. Each "snack" is designed to be built with inexpensive, common materials. Activities come with instructions, suggestions and explanation of scientific theory employ.

This blog post includes a summary of the top tech tips from 2015. They include tips to help determine how much students are grasping in a one-to-one classroom, ways in which to use Google Tone, and pointers to help create how-to videos in the classroom. SmartBrief/SmartBlog on Education

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.

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

PARCC Releases Translated Score Reports
The sample score reports are now available in the following languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, Navajo, Haitian, Marshallese, Polish, Portuguese, Somali, Spanish and Vietnamese.  The translated reports are available on the  PARCC website.

PARCC Unbundles Testing System
Check out the Student Achievement Partners' Coherence Map. Their interactive website illustrates the connections between Common Core State Standards for Mathematics.
 
Webinar: Sarah Martino and Kathy Brown Present:  Kindergarten and the Common Core: It's as Easy as ABC!  
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
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