Click here to download the September Heartland Administrators Association meeting agenda. The meeting will be held from 9:00-11:50 a.m. on Tuesday, September 6 (the day after Labor Day) at the Heartland AEA Johnston Regional Education Center (6500 Corporate Drive) in Room 13A and B. It is open to all superintendents in the Heartland service area. No registration is necessary.
Book Provided as a Resource for Learning
All participants will be provided with a copy of: Skillful Leader II: Confronting Conditions that Undermine Learning, by Alexander D. Platt, Caroline E. Tripp, Robert G Fraser, James R. Warnock, and Rachel E. Curtis
The book will be used to frame our study of the conditions that need to be in place to accelerate student learning…and what to do about those conditions that undermine it. Some of the topics discussed will include:
- Collaborative learning and leadership structures
- Community engagement
- Supportive learning environments
- Use of data
- Effective educators (Improving hiring, induction and evaluation to support learning, principal development, impacts of contracts and collective bargaining on improving learning conditions)
- Supporting effective instructional and assessment practices to deliver a high quality curriculum
In addition to the Skillful Leader II, the facilitators will introduce supplemental readings from the current work of some of the leading researchers and authors in the field of educational leadership. Multiple copies of each of these books will be available for checkout by participants at before and after each session.
Schools and districts scheduled for a site visit during the 2011-2012 school year, as well as those volunteering to be a member of a site visit team, are strongly encouraged to attend one face-to-face training session. The time scheduled within Heartland AEA is September 6, 2011 from 1:00-3:30 p.m. at the Heartland Johnston Regional Education Center (6500 Corporate Drive, Johnston).
Materials needed for the school improvement part of the training are available on the Department of Education website at http://educateiowa.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1558&Itemid=2342
You may also find helpful, the series of video clips that were developed for the 2010-11 site visits. You can access these video clips at
http://educateiowa.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2038
Many schools are heading down the path of preparing students for the 21st century through the use of technology. If you are interested in sending teachers or attending an exceptional technology in education conference, check out ITEC. ITEC (Iowa Technology in Education Connection) will be on October 16-18 and hosted in Des Moines, IA at the Polk County Convention Center.
October 17 & 18 will include one-hour conference breakouts, but on October 16 there will be a lineup of hands-on workshops. The featured workshop offerings this year are mentioned in the digital flyer attached in the Administrator Connection. Also, if you are interested in registering more than 10 individuals, there are group discounts available. Contact Jeff Sypersma at jsypersma@nwaea.org for group rates.
Please forward the below information to your school counselors. Register for workshops and classes through the Heartland AEA Professional Development Catalog.
Preparing your School Counseling and At-Risk Program for a DE Site Visit
Date: September 14, 2011
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Heartland AEA Johnston Regional Education Center (6500 Corporate Drive) in Room 13B
Activity Number: CN05292111201
Come join Sue Schirmer (Heartland AEA) and Susan Walkup (DE) for a review of what to prepare and organize for your DE Site Visit.
Refining Your School Counseling Program
Date: October 18 and December 1, 2011
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location: Heartland AEA Johnston Regional Education Center in Room Room 13A
Activity Number: CN005392111201
K-12 School Counseling programs in the state of Iowa are required to be articulated and sequential. They are also required to be comprehensive in scope, preventive in design, developmental in nature, driven by data and integral to the school district's curricula and instructional program. This two-day course is designed to assist teams of school counselors and administrators to analyze their current programming, determine gaps and create plans to fill those gaps.
Secondary Counselor Advisor/Advisee Work Day
Date: October 20, 2011
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Heartland AEA Johnston Regional Education Center in Rooms 3, 4 and ICN
Activity Number: CN005892111201
Struggling with your advisor/advisee curriculum, planning, resources and ideas? Load up what you have and come to this one-day workshop prepared to share and learn!
Counselor Academy III: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
Date: October 27 and December 7, 2011
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location: Heartland AEA Johnston Regional Education Center in Room Room 13A
Activity Number: CN004392111201
Counselor Academy III has been changed a bit this year. This two-day experience is a professional development opportunity for counselors to review, write and problem-solve curriculum; work on instructional strategies and design formative assessments for the K-12 school counseling program. Participants have the option of earning one license renewal credit or graduate credit upon successful completion of the program.
Using Data to Drive Your School Counseling Program (statewide on-line course)
Time: November 28, 2011-February 13, 2012
Activity Number: 22004799991201
This two-credit on-line learning opportunity is open to all counselors in the state. The goal is to recognize how to use data to support the work of the school counseling program. Participants will walk through the process of evaluating data, uncovering the “root cause,” selecting and administering interventions, then reviewing the results.
I Have a Plan Workshops
We are in the planning stages for IHAPI, Financial Literacy and PAWS in Jobland (Elementary career) Workshops. Watch for registration information in the Heartland AEA Professional Development Catalog.
As always, make sure your school counselors are on our list serve! Contact Sue Schirmer at sschirmer@aea11.k12.ia.us for more information.
Heartland AEA is again offering gifted and talented learning opportunities and support for administrators, curriculum staff and teachers. In addition to what was communicated in a previous Administrator Connection, the following are two other opportunities being offered this fall.
New GT Teacher Orientation
If your district has teachers of gifted who are new to this job responsibility, Heartland will be hosting New GT Teacher Orientation on September 12 from 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. at the Johnston Regional Education Center. For a complete description and to register for this session, go to the through the Heartland AEA Professional Development Catalog and enter Activity Number GT007192111201 in the correct field
Best Practices in Gifted Education: Site Visit Preparation
If your district will be receiving a Department of Education Site Visit this year and would like some guidance regarding gifted and talented programming as you prepare for that visit, Best Practices in Gifted Education: Site Visit Preparation might be just what you're looking for. This session will be held September 30 from 1:00-3:00 p.m. For a complete description and to register for this session, go to the through the Heartland AEA Professional Development Catalog and enter Activity Number GT00769211101 in the correct field.
If you have questions about either session, please contact Mary Schmidt at mschmidt@aea11.k12.ia.us or (515) 270-0405 ext 14375.
Think of a counseling colleague… someone with whom you work, someone from whom you find support, someone whose counseling program supports the ASCA standards, someone who does the extra to support his/her students, someone who makes a true difference and is a credit to the school counseling profession. Doesn’t this individual deserve statewide recognition by his/her peers?
Then take a few minutes and nominate a fellow counselor by submitting an application for an Iowa School Counselor of the Year Award. Your nominee must be a current member of ISCA as of October 1, 2011. Here are the steps:
- Write a letter of recommendation and include the award category (elementary; middle school/junior high; high school or multilevel.)
- Attach a vita for the nominee.
- Write a statement describing the program, activity and/or contribution demonstrating the individual ‘s worthiness to receive this award.
The application procedure is also detailed under Awards and Grants at the ISCA website, www.iowaschoolcounselors.org. Questions about the application process can be directed to Sue Farran at sfarran@prairiepride.org or (319) 848-5510.
Applications can be faxed Attn: Sue Farran at (319) 848-5515 or mailed to the following:
Sue Farran
Prairie Point Middle School and 9th Grade Academy
401 76th Ave. SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
The deadline for application submission is October 11, 2011.
The dissemination of information from external organizations by Heartland AEA does not infer sponsorship or endorsement of the information. It is being passed on to our stakeholders for its educational value.
Even though the topic of Creativity is usually thought to be the domain of art teachers, the Art Educators of Iowa (AEI) believe that it is important for ALL classroom teachers. AEI is pleased to announce its fall conference on October 7-9 in Downtown Des Moines. The conference will be held at a variety of locations, including the Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel, the East Village and Grand View University. For more information about the AEI Fall Conference, the conference schedule and registration information, go to the AEI website at http://www.artedia.org/. Please share this information with interested staff, especially K-12 visual art teachers, GT teachers and/or curriculum directors.
The dissemination of information from external organizations by Heartland AEA does not infer sponsorship or endorsement of the information. It is being passed on to our stakeholders for its educational value.
Before the first Heartland Administrator Association Meeting next Tuesday, September 6, we thought that we would introduce you to some new faces. Below are the new superintendents starting this year in Heartland AEA's area who have submitted self-profiles at this time.
Peter Ansingh, West Des Moines
Education
BA in Chemistry from Pacific Lutheran University, 1976
MST in Chemistry from University of Wyoming, 1979
EdD in Ed Leadership from Seattle University, 1986
Past work experience
Superintendent – West Valley School District (Yakima, WA), 1991-2011
Superintendent – Methow Valley School District (Twisp, WA), 1985-1991
Superintendent – Boistfort School District (Curtis, WA), 1981-1985
Teacher/Head Teacher – Boistfort School District (Curtis, WA), 1979-1981
Why did you decide to pursue the superintendent position at your district?
After 30 years as a superintendent in Washington State and with our kids successfully launched (for the moment), Pam and I are ready for an adventure. Through my network of colleagues, West Des Moines was recommended as a district to which I should apply. It was identified as a district that supports education and its schools in a state that also supports education and its schools.
What is your vision for your district?
Through the interview process, the one challenge that was identified for me is the changing demographics of the district. The opportunity I see will be to continue to ensure that students/families experience a high level of success, even as they come to school not speaking English for example. Having been in Iowa a brief time, I have also been presented with potential reform strategies being discussed by the State.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy spending free time walking, riding my bicycle, playing tennis and reading. Once Pam is able to join me, I look forward to finding a home that will require a significant amount of yard work, my favorite form of therapy.
Lindsey Beecher, Gilbert
Education
BA in Secondary Education, Social Science major, Math minor from University of Northern Iowa
MA Masters in Administration, Specialist Degree from University of Northern Iowa
Past Work Experience
Galva-Holstein, Jr. High Math and Social Studies
Independence High School, H.S. Math, Jr. High Social Studies
West Bend-Mallard, H.S. Principal, A.D., Superintendent
Dike-New Hartford, Superintendent
Why did you decide to pursue the superintendent position at your district?
I knew of Gilbert’s reputation for excellence in academics combined with the fact that it was a growing district, made it a very attractive position. Gilbert’s location in central Iowa and near so many opportunities also made it appealing.
What is your vision for your district?
We are going to have to work very hard to manage the growth of this district while maintaining fiscal responsibility and academic strength. It will be an important part of my job to communicate with and bring together all of the stakeholders in the district.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy spending any free time I have with my family which now includes a six-month-old grandson.
Brad Buck, Saydel
Education
The University of Northern Iowa - BA Biology
Iowa State University - M.Ed. and Ph.D.
Past work experience
Associate Superintendent for School Improvement - Waukee CSD
Principal - Prairieview School and Waukee Middle School - Waukee CSD
Principal - Hudson Middle School - Hudson CSD
Principal - North Mahaska Jr./Sr. High - North Mahaska CSD
Teacher - 7th Grade Life Science - Ankeny CSD
Why did you decide to pursue the superintendent position at your district?
Saydel has made significant improvements in the last few years across a number of dimensions. We have also been heavily involved in conversations about increasing student access to technology in the learning environment. Specifically, we will begin a 1:1 laptop initiative in grades 7 & 8 this school year that will expand to grades 7-12 in 2012-13. I wanted to be a part of this move to being a hub for innovation in the metro area of Des Moines.
What is your vision for your district?
To support a learning environment for every student that will allow him/her the experiences necessary to leave high school ready for post-secondary education and/or a high skills job in the workplace. This will include engaging staff members, families, businesses and the community in the learning process.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy watching sports, reading and most importantly, spending time with my wife and six children.
Greg Ebeling, Pella
Education
Advanced Studies Certificate – University of Northern Iowa (2001)
M.A. – Drake University (1996)
B.A. Gustavus Adolphus College (1991)
Past work experience
2004-2011 -Spencer Community School Superintendent
2001-2004 - Maquoketa Valley Community School Superintendent
1999-2001 - Maquoketa Valley High School Principal
1997- 1999 - West Central Community School, Maynard, Principal
1991- 1997 -Oskaloosa Community School, Junior High Math Teacher
Why did you decide to pursue the superintendent position at your district?
Since my first job was in Oskaloosa, I quickly became familiar with the Pella School District. I still have some strong friendships with people around the Pella/Oskaloosa area. As a teacher and coach, I was envious of the success that Pella has had in both academics and extra-curricular activities. Having a young family, I knew Pella would be a great place to raise my children. Additionally, the value structure of the community is a good match for who I am as a person.
What is your vision for your district?
The Pella district has a vision that is in direct alignment with my vision for education. I believe in developing students through professional collaboration of educators and a focus on continuous improvement. We need students that are able to think critically, problem solve, work together and have strong character. This only happens with parents, students, educators and community working together to provide experiences that develop the entire child.
Scott Grimes, Dallas Center-Grimes
Education
Ed.S. from University of Northern Iowa, 2010
M.A. in Educational Administration from Iowa State University, 2001
B.S. in Elementary Education, Specialization in Special Ed. from University of Iowa, 1993
Past Work Experience
Superintendent, Louisa-Muscatine Community School District, 2007-2010
Lead Administrator/Principal, Louisa-Muscatine Community School District, 2007-2008
Principal, Louisa-Muscatine Elementary School, 2001-2007
Sixth Grade Teacher, Johnston Middle School, 1994-2001
Special Education Teacher, Johnston Middle School 1993-1994
Why did you decide to pursue the superintendent position at your district?
I pursued the DC-G position due to the current state of the district and the future challenges that it will hold. The district is known to be progressive in meeting the needs of the whole child, in the academic and extracurricular arena. This has been done with resource prioritization, strong community support, facility updates and strong leadership. The challenges that will face our district plus others around the state will be to maintain resources for needed programming, continue with the challenges of keeping a small school philosophy with increasing enrollment and moving our teaching paradigm to the 21st century.
What is your vision for your district?
My vision for DC-G is simple. Continue doing the things that make a positive impact on student learning, get rid of what is not and provide the resources, time and environment for optimal learning.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
With four kids in 8th, 6th, 3rd and 1st grade, it is obvious that my time is spent enjoying family events and activities. Some of those activities include: golfing, biking, reading, music and working on cars.
Dave Haggard, Glidden-Ralston
Education
Ph.D. (School Administration) from Iowa State University, 1984
M.S.E. (Secondary School Admin.) from Drake University, 1974
B.S.E. (Business Education) from Drake University, 1971
Past Work Experience
Superintendent, Fort Dodge Community Schools, December 1988 – June 2005
Superintendent, Storm Lake Community Schools, July 1986 – November 1988
Superintendent, North Winneshiek Community School, July 1984 – June 1986
Principal/Athletic Director, Madrid Community Schools, July 1978 – June 1984
Principal/Athletic Director, Graettinger Community Schools, July 1975 – June 1978
Business Ed. Teacher/Coach, Norwalk Community Schools, January 1972 – June 1975
Why did you decide to pursue the superintendent position at your district?
I had retired in 2005 and was working as a consultant with G. Tryon and Associates. We were pleased to have the opportunity to do the search in Glidden because this is the “Home Town” for Gaylord, Randy Braden, and me. Some candidates withdrew from the search late, and we were considering what alternatives existed. We reviewed the alternatives with the Glidden-Ralston board. One of the alternatives was to go with an interim. On the way home that evening Gaylord asked if I had ever considered going back to our hometown and doing an interim. From there the rest is history. I have agreed to do a two-year interim assignment and I have had no regrets. I am proud to be a Wildcat again.
What is your vision for your district?
My vision is to help the district identify creative options for expanding the depth and breadth of the curriculum that is available to our students and to continue building on the existing vision of becoming the best small school in Iowa.
What are your hobbies or things that you like to do in your free time?
I love the out-of-doors, and I am an avid water fowler. I have a four legged, well-trained conservation assistant in the form of an 11-year-old Labrador retriever. I am very active in Ducks Unlimited, having served a two-year term as State Chairman and currently as an At-Large National Board Member. My wife (Dee) and I have been empty nesters for years now but have no grandchildren to spoil. We enjoyed traveling until I accepted this current interim.
Marty Lucas, Colfax-Mingo
Education
AA Degree from North Iowa Area Community College
BA Degree from University of Northern Iowa
MS Degree and Certificate of Advanced Study from Iowa State University
Past work experience
5 years as teacher/coach
2 years as secondary principal
4 years as assistant high school principal and athletic director
21 years as superintendent at various districts in Iowa
2 years as a superintendent in Colorado
Why did you decide to pursue the superintendent position at your district?
After spending two years in Colorado my wife and I were anxious to return to Iowa to be closer to family and to return to the Midwest. I was impressed with the board’s desire to move forward in a positive direction and their commitment to the district and the communities of Colfax and Mingo. We also enjoy being close to the metro area.
What is your vision for your district?
All district’s are facing difficult times and we are no different than many other district. The challenge is balancing financial issues with providing high quality educational opportunities for our students. My hope is that, as a community, we can develop a long-range plan that will lead to quality decision making to help the district move forward toward providing the highest quality educational system possible.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy spending as much time as possible with family. My other passion is golf.
Craig Menozzi, Southeast Polk
Education
B.A. degree from Gustavus Adolphus College
MED from the University of Minnesota
EDS and Superintendent’s license from St. Thomas University
Past Work Experience
Superintendent, Independent School District (New Prague, MN)
Principal, McGuire Middle School, Independent School District (New Prague, MN)
Assistant Principal, Black Hawk Middle School, Independent School District (New Prague, MN)
Assistant Principal, Rosemount Middle School (Rosemount, MN)
Teacher/Coach, Rosemount High School (Rosemount, MN)
Why did you decide to pursue the superintendent position at your district?
I decided to pursue the position with SEP Schools as I was impressed with how they have done such a wonderful in bringing together the various communities represented within the district.
What is your vision for your district?
My vision for the SEP school district is to become a premier district that models excellence and embraces the challenges of the 21st century.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy reading, golf, fishing and spending time with my family.
Bob Miller, Pleasantville
Education
BA from Yankton College in Yankton, SD, 1975, Majored in Physical Education with a minor in General Science
MA from Drake University in Des Moines, 1990, Degree is in Educational Administration
CAS from Iowa State University in Ames, 2004, Degree is in Educational Administration
Past Work Experience
Superintendent of the Okoboji Community Schools in Milford, IA - 2004-2011
HS Principal at Forest City High School in Forest City, IA - 1995-2004
HS Associate Principal/Activities Director at Forest City HS in Forest City, IA - 1990-1995
HS Science teacher and coach at Clarion-Goldfield HS in Clarion, IA - 1982-1990
HS Science teacher and coach at Bishop Heelan HS in Sioux City, IA - 1977-1982
Volunteer Assistant Football Coach – The University of Iowa - 1976
HS Science teacher and coach at Plainfield HS in Plainfield, IA - 1975-1976
Why did you decide to pursue the superintendent position at your district?
Pleasantville Schools are on the cusp of something big and innovative. Certainly becoming another one of the schools within the state who are participating in a 1:1 program doesn’t make it unique but with the innovative calendar and the four day work week for the months of January, February, and March coupled with the 1:1 certainly makes it intriguing. The proximity to the greater Des Moines area made it interesting for my family as well. The people of Pleasantville are truly warm and welcoming and we have a tradition of high achievement and innovation, which I hope to continue.
What is your vision for your district?
My vision for Pleasantville would be like that of many superintendents around the state, to prepare our students for their next step in life. We certainly want our students to take some form of additional schooling after high school, whether that be 1, 2, 4 or 6 years of college or training. We want them to understand that we all have to be life long learners and that change will take place in their lives and they must be prepared for it. We want our students to be able to create, collaborate and communicate with character, not only in school but also in life in general.
What are your hobbies or things you lie to do in your free time?
I enjoy traveling on long weekend get-a-ways with family and friends as well as golfing. I also enjoy boating with family and just being with them.
Matt Patton, Baxter
Education
Iowa State University B.S. in History University of Iowa M.A. in Educational Administration University of Northern Iowa C.A.S. in Superintendency
Past Work Experience
Administrative Experience:
Pella Middle School Principal, 2007-2011
Mount Ayr 7-12 Principal, 2005-2007
Southern Cal (Lake City) 7-12 Principal, 2002-2005
Classroom Experience:
Fairfield MS & HS Social Studies Teacher, 1996-2002
Why did you decide to pursue the superintendent position at your district?
Baxter is a community that has a strong tradition of supporting education and its schools. Baxter has an experienced and dedicated school board that is committed to our mission of "Teaching for today and tomorrow, one student at a time." The district is filled with quality professionals who are committed to providing an outstanding educational experience for students. The district's size (400 students) provides us the opportunity to meet the individual needs of students and their families.
What is your vision for your district?
To provide a world-class educational experience that prepares students for the challenges of the future.
What are your hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my family, training for and competing in triathlons, hunting, and being involved in church.
