P-20 Network Newsletter — September 22, 2023

On this day, we will be gathering to provide significant in-person worktime across the Illinois P-20 Network’s Areas of Focus. There will be significant worktime dedicated to each of the following groups:

Dual Credit Think Tank
IPIE – Illinois Partnership of educators for Inclusion and Equity

KEEP Illinois – Keeping Educators Engaged Professionally

The event will kick-off at 9 AM with a short whole-group introduction as we consider the focus on equity that serves as the foundation for all of this work. Then, each group will move into its own space for in-person worktime. We will conclude with lunch and sharing, and we anticipate being completely done by 1.30 PM.

The Fall P-20 Network Meeting is not only open to existing members of these groups, but we welcome new members to each of these groups, as well.

To offset the costs of bringing together everyone in-person, there will be a small $30 registration fee. Registration will open next week, so look for additional communications about this via email, LinkedIn, and on the Illinois P-20 Network website.

Student-Centered Coaching is an evidence-based instructional coaching model that shifts the focus from “fixing” teachers to collaborating with them to design instruction that targets student outcomes. Over six days throughout the year, this institute will take a deep dive into this coaching approach with expert Diane Sweeney. Diane is an educator, coach, author, and highly sought-after facilitator.

Institute Overview

November 29-30 – Core practices for Student-Centered Coaching, including using standards and evidence from students to anchor coaching as well as examining the impact of coaching styles

February 7-8 – Focus on school culture and teacher engagement through teacher self-efficacy and school improvement
April 10-11 – Exploration of reflective dialogue with opportunities for practice and problem solving

The year-long Institute format of paired days separated by weeks provides the chance to reflect and start implementing Student-Centered Coaching in your local school context. All six sessions will be delivered in person at NIU’s Naperville campus with plenty of parking, food, and camaraderie to make everyone’s learning experience positive and memorable.

STEM Fest is a celebration of all things science, technology, engineering and math. This free event is scheduled for Saturday, September 30 from 10 AM to 4 PM on the campus of Northern Illinois University. STEM Fest features more than 100 exhibits, speakers, and demonstrations designed to inspire and engage guests of all ages with opportunities for STEM learning. It is one of the largest free family events in northern Illinois. More information about STEM Fest can be found at: https://niusteam.niu.edu/programs-events/stem-fest/

NIU Esports is hosting its first Healthy Gaming Day! Designed exclusively for high school and college Esports directors and coaches, Healthy Gaming Day consists of in-person, interactive sessions by industry experts covering nutrition, physical health, mental health, academic support, and diversity in competitive scholastic esports. Attendees will leave with tools, ideas, and techniques they can implement in their esports programs. The event takes place at Northern Illinois University’s Esports Arena, on Friday, October 6 from 9 AM to 4:30 PM. Cost is $150. Save $20 by using the code DISCOUNT20 during checkout. Breakfast and lunch are provided. Seating is limited to 50, so register today.

ISBE reminds school districts with high schools that fall portability panels for both Transitional Math and Transitional English will meet on November 1. In advance of that meeting, the deadline to submit portability materials in iPlacement is October 1.

Both the Transitional Math and Transitional English Portability Panels are seeking new members to serve on the panels. Interested individuals can email TRInstruction@isbe.net if they have questions or need more information.

P-20 Network Email Newsletter —
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