The Administrator Newsletter - October 2023

A D M I N I S T R A T O R

THANK A PRINCIPAL

Dr. Hernandez examines the challenges and rewards that come with serving as principal.

Executive Viewpoint Page 3

WELL-BEING OF SCHOOL LEADERS MATTERS

Dr. Neathery discusses ways to support the well-being of school leaders.

President’s Perspective Page 4

ADMINISTRATOR SPOTLIGHT: NATALIE GOSDIN

In the Spotlight this month is Natalie Gosdin, Special Education Supervisor with the Searcy School District.

Page 5

AAEA Staff

Dr. Mike Hernandez Executive Director m.hernandez@theaaea.org

2023-2024 Calendar of Events

October

ASPMA Conference, October 2-4, 2023

Hot Springs Convention Center

Mike Mertens Assistant Executive Director m.mertens@theaaea.org

Lenett Thrasher Director of Learning Services & Operations l.thrasher@theaaea.org

Sharon Chuculate Fiscal Services Coordinator s.chuculate@theaaea.org

AAGEA Conference, October 4-5, 2023

Benton Event Center

AAEA Fall Conference, October 10, 2023

Benton Event Center

CASBO Certification Classes, October 24-25, 2023

Four Points by Sheraton, Little Rock

November

AACTEA Conference, November 9, 2023

Delta Marriott, Little Rock

January

Sarah Shamburger Business Manager s.shamburger@theaaea.org

Alyse Mattox Communications & Technology Specialist a.mattox@theaaea.org

Melanie Thrasher Business Analyst m.thrasher@theaaea.org

AASA Superintendent Symposium, January 10-11, 2024

DoubleTree Hotel, Little Rock

AACIA Conference, January 23, 2024

Benton Event Center

TEL-AR Conference, January 31 - February 1, 2024

Wyndham Riverfront, North Little Rock

February

AASBO Conference, February 7-8, 2024

Hot Springs Convention Center

ArkASPA Spring Conference, February 22, 2024

Wyndham Riverfront, North Little Rock

Lana Webb Administrative Specialist l.webb@theaaea.org

April

Women in Leadership Conference

Date and Location TBD

CASBO Certification Classes, April 23-24, 2024

DoubleTree Hotel, Little Rock

Rachel Blocker Administrative Assistant r.blocker@theaaea.org

For more information, visit theaaea.org/events or see Page 8.

2023-2024 AAEA Board of Directors

Dr. Karla Neathery AAEA President Superintendent, Sheridan

Dr. Andrea Martin AASA President Superintendent, Greenland

Steven Helmick

AAESP President-Elect Principal, Little Rock

Matt Ziegler AASSP Past President Principal, Riverside

Kelsey Bailey

AASBO President Chief Financial Officer, Little Rock

Valerie King AAGEA President Director of Gifted Programs, Siloam Springs

Stacy DeFoor AAEA President-Elect Assistant Superintendent, Benton

Kelvin Gragg AASA President-Elect AssistantPineSuperintendent, Bluff

Carol Skiba AAESP Past President Principal, Cabot

Rebecca Rosburg ArkASPA President Assistant Superintendent for HR/Federal Programs, Hot Springs

Melody Crane AASBO Past President Business Manager/District Treasurer, Hector

Jason Brunner AAMLA President Assistant Principal, Bentonville

Jarod Morrison TEL-AR President Director of Maintenance/ Technology, Farmington

Charles Warren AAEA Board Secretary Chief Financial Officer, Fort Smith

Dr. Debbie Bruick-Jones AASA Secretary Superintendent, Bentonville

Amy Marek AASSP President Principal, Hazen

Lisa AACTEAHotsenpiller President Director of Career & Technical Education, Fayetteville

Natalie Gosdin AASEA President Director of Special Education, Searcy

Craig Dupuy ASPMA President (until Oct) Assistant Superintendent, Benton

Dr. Mike Hernandez AAEA Executive Director

Prestigious

Brian Kirkendoll AAEA Past President Principal, Alma

Shawn Rose

AAESP President Principal, Hillcrest

Dr. Jason Reeves AASSP President-Elect Assistant Principal, Alma

Dr. Dana Brown AAFC President Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services, Mountain Home

Ellen Phipps AACIA President Curriculum Director, Ouachita

Greg Collins ASPMA President (begin Oct) Maintenance/Facilities Supervisor, Dover

2023 AAEA Corporate Sponsors

American Fidelity Assurance Co.

Cognia

Coryell Roofing and Construction, Inc.

Curriculum Associates

Educational Benefits, Inc.

GoSchoolBox

Lifetouch National School Studios, Inc.

NIET - National Institute for

Excellence in Teaching Performance Services

Pro Benefits Group, Inc.

Renaissance Learning, Inc.

School Responder

Solution Tree, Inc.

Distinguished Apptegy

Capturing Kids’ Hearts

Lexia Learning

Pearson Virtual Schools

Diamond Allovue

Arkansas Public Safety Solutions

Baldwin & Shell

ClassWallet

Diamond (Continued)

Defined Learning

Edmentum

Education Elements Energy Systems Group

ESS

First Security Beardsley

Imagine Learning

Just Right Reader

Middleton, Inc.

OnToCollege

SmartData Dashboard

Stephens, Inc.

Tanium

White River Services and Solutions

Winsor Learning

Platinum AAMSCO

Architecture Plus, Inc.

C.R. Crawford Construction, LLC

Cromwell Architects Engineers

DotCom Therapy, Inc.

Entegrity Energy Partners, LLC

Legacy Construction Management

Nabholz Construction Corp.

Platinum (Continued)

Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA)

Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects

Progressive Technologies

TRANE US, Inc.

Gold

CDI Contractors

Cynergy Rehab Group

Goalbook

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

IXL Learning

Kinco Constructors, LLC

Phoenix Contractors, LLC

Red Comet

TIPS - The Interlocal Purchasing System

Zaner-Bloser

Silver Adleta

American Bus Sales, Inc.

Correll, Inc.

French Architects, PA

Hight-Jackson Associates, PA

SEAS

Dr. Mike Hernandez, AAEA Executive Director

THANK A PRINCIPAL

Public education plays a vital role in shaping the future of our students here in Arkansas. It is a unique and evolving system that relies on dedicated individuals to ensure its success. Among these individuals, principals are often the unsung heroes of public education. They play a pivotal role in shaping policies, fostering positive learning environments, and supporting teachers and staff. Being a principal is a fulfilling and meaningful endeavor that comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards.

While the role of a principal is rewarding, it is not without its challenges. The position is especially tough when implementing new laws and policies. Principals are facing tighter budgets and pressure to improve academic outcomes. They must also address whatever social forces and beliefs are stirring in their community. The main focus is ensuring every student has a chance to succeed. Balancing these demands can be challenging, but a principal's role is crucial to a school's success.

Despite the challenges, being a principal comes with numerous rewards. They see that student who completed a 180-degree turn in school and is successful in the workforce. Working with the community is building a support structure for the students to help meet their needs outside of school. They are assisting teachers to grow their knowledge and craft through collaboration and support. Using your voice to shape policy and advocate for changes that benefit students and teachers while helping drive improvements in the education system.

For most, being a principal is not just a job but a calling and commitment to shaping the students and our future leaders. Principals are the architects of positive change, and their tireless efforts contribute to the growth and success of countless students. Please join me in celebrating principals during October for National Principals Month. These individuals often work behind the scenes to make education a reality; it's essential to recognize and honor the contributions of these dedicated administrators. Their passion and dedication are necessary to helping students learn and grow.

I am very thankful for the many principals I had as a student, teacher, administrator, and now as director of AAEA. The road is long and windy, but you make a difference in the end. One of my good friends shared this verse with me; it is a good message for all of us. I Corinthians 15:58 reads, "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."

President’s Perspective

Dr. Karla Neathery, AAEA Board President

WELL-BEING OF SCHOOL LEADERS MATTERS

Burnout rates are high among principals. How can we promote self-care? The past few years have been tough on school leaders. Principals have been putting out fires and coping with unexpected situations. Many principals admit that their careers have become very stressful with work overload, breakdown with communication, and values conflicts.

Principals are challenged to handle pressure, student achievement, and working harmoniously with diverse stakeholders. They are also expected to maintain a positive school environment. These demands can lead to exhaustion when principals devote too much time to their work and develop a very poor work-life balance. So what can we do to better prepare future school leaders and promote their well-being? Here are a few suggestions.

We must support self-care. School leaders often put the needs of their students and staff before their own. This can lead to burnout, stress, and other health problems. School leaders need to learn to take care of themselves in order to be effective in their roles. This includes providing them with time and resources they need to engage in self-care activities such as exercise, spending time with loved ones, and pursuing hobbies.

Make principal well-being part of professional development. School leaders should be supported in developing and maintaining their own well-being. This can be done by providing them with professional development opportunities on topics such as stress management, time management, and work-life balance.

Promote coaching or mentoring models. Coaching and mentoring can provide school leaders with support and guidance from more experienced colleagues. This can be especially helpful for new school leaders or those who are facing challenges in their roles.

Work with school leaders to identify their individual needs and develop a plan to meet those needs. We must recognize and appreciate their hard work. School leaders often work long hours and face many challenges. It is important to recognize and appreciate their hard work and dedication.

Create a supportive school culture. School leaders need to feel supported by their staff and administrators. Schools can create a supportive school culture by promoting collaboration, communication, and respect.

Provide school leaders with opportunities to learn and grow. School leaders should have the opportunity to learn and grow professionally. This can be done by providing them with access to professional development opportunities, conferences, and other resources. Educational leaders should also have the opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise with others.

Promote a healthy work-life balance. School leaders often work long hours and have heavy work loads. It is important to help school leaders achieve a healthy work-life balance by providing them with flexible work arrangements, opportunities to telecommunicate, and support from colleagues and administrators.

Celebrate success and accomplishments. It is important to recognize and celebrate the success and accomplishments of school leaders. This can be done through formal awards programs, informal recognition, and simply by expressing appreciation for their hard work.

By supporting the well-being of school leaders, we can help them to be more effective in their roles and create better schools for all students. We must create a culture of respect and appreciation for school leaders. Let them know that their work is valued and appreciated. By taking these steps, we can help to ensure that school leaders are happy, healthy and productive.

Natalie Gosdin, Special Education Supervisor at the Searcy School District, became inspired to go into teaching after meeting several future educators in a college class. She says, "I realized I wanted to know more and moved into teaching. At this time, I didn’t know a lot about special education. I felt a calling. I didn’t realize it until I started working, but this was my passion." She was also blessed to marry into a family that was passionate for others with special needs, with a mother-in-law that had also taught special education.

She started her journey in education at Magnolia School District as a self-contained special education teacher, then moved to Texarkana where she worked in Texas for one year as a special ed teacher. She then taught 10 years for Genoa Central in first grade and special education before moving back to Magnolia for three years as a special education teacher. After that she taught for 2 years in Monticello before being given the opportunity to be a Special Education Supervisor for the district. In 2023, she joined the Searcy School District as Special Education Supervisor.

"My favorite thing about my job is collaborating with an IEP team to provide the best services to support a student with specific needs," she says. "It’s amazing to watch the team work together to blend goals with related services, work with parents and staff, and create a plan that allows a student to grow. I also love the direction of inclusive education in Arkansas and the expectations that all students can learn and be part of the school community." She says the most challenging part of her job is when she has a student or a parent that hasn’t always had support. "Working to grow the relationship and rebuild trust can take years," she states. "It also takes time to support students with specific and challenging needs and it is hard for others to see that small progress is often huge progress."

Natalie says anyone thinking of a similar career should "buckle up." While it can be overwhelming at times, she believes "the impact you can have is worth it all. The ability to work alongside great special education staff and administration to drive real change in collaboration with your district is a privilege I don’t take for granted." The most helpful career advice she received is to make sure to prioritize. She states, "You should use the WIN philosophyWhat’s Important Now. Focusing on what is most important to get done today, then by tomorrow, and then planning out your timeline of what needs to be done helps you keep your focus on what’s most important."

The biggest change in education that she has experienced over 22 years would be the shift towards inclusive practices. She states, "When I started, our students were isolated, often taught to their level with expectations that were less than. That shift has now moved into standards, plus rigor, plus expectations with scaffolding, support and an opportunity to learn alongside their peers." Natalie says her district is currently working to grow in their inclusive practices, provide the best services for students, and provide support for our teachers in these services. "We continue to grow in the PLC process and using data to drive decision making. I personally want to grow in learning more about the PLC process and work with other leaders in our state to shape positive inclusive practices."

Administrator Spotlight: Natalie Gosdin

Special Education Supervisor, Searcy School District

with Natalie Gosdin ? ! Q&A

What is the most daring thing you’ve done?

The most daring thing I have done would be recently speaking to the Arkansas Senate Education Committee on behalf of Para-Educators and funding to raise their pay. Our classrooms and campuses wouldn’t be what they are without our support staff that go the extra mile each day.

What’s something that amazes you?

I am amazed when a student who is non-verbal learns to use a communication device and can tell us what’s inside their mind. I am so intrigued by how smart students are with significant needs when given the tools to communicate.

What have you done that you are most proud of?

I am most proud of my daughters. I wanted to raise strong, independent young women that would stand up for what’s good and right in the world. They are well on their way to being powerful leaders and hard workers who will make positive change in the world around them.

What do you enjoy doing during your time off?

In my time off I love to be with my family. Our oldest is a runner for Southern Arkansas University and we love to see her excel. Our youngest daughter has taken up golf so we spend a lot of time at the golf course. I enjoy time with my husband finding new places in our state to explore. I also love spending time with our parents and siblings.

What is one of the things on your “Bucket List?”

I have always wanted to learn to fly. My youngest daughter is also interested in learning so maybe we will do that together.

When people look back at your life, how do you want to be remembered?

I hope to be remembered for my passion. I hope that people know how much I have loved my students and the staff I worked with as well as how much I loved my job. I would also hope they would remember me as someone who worked alongside them, not as a boss.

What do you see as the biggest benefit of AAEA membership?

The biggest benefit of being a member of AAEA is learning from and collaborating with other members. I have had many opportunities to connect with others and learn from their experiences. I learn so much from our AASEA membership zooms and make connections with others who are always kind and willing to answer my many questions. The offering for learning through AAEA is always quality and well organized in a way that busy administrators can access and digest. I also appreciate the legislative support of AAEA and believe it is important as many are working behind the scenes to support public education.

Asked & Answered

Mike Mertens, AAEA Assistant Executive Director

The question was, "Are districts still required to pass a board resolution in October identifying employees that received a 5% or more increase in salary from the previous year?" The answer was "no." Act 418 of 2023 repealed the section of Arkansas code that included this requirement.

Another question was, "Are districts still required to give the Annual Report to the Public in October?" The answer was "no." The requirement for reporting used to be "by October 15 of each year." That was changed several years ago and now the report can be presented any time during the year.

A few other reminders. According to 3-B.2 in the Rules Governing the Standards for Accreditation, the most recent annual report to the public shall be posted on the district website under State –Required Information by August 1. Also, a common practice is for districts to have the Annual Report to the Public in conjunction with a regular board meeting.

If you have questions for Mike, email him at m.mertens@theaaea.org .

Compliance Connection

Ways to Save on Prescription Drugs

Submitted by Ginger Huff, Arkansas State Manager, American Fidelity Assurance Co.

In today's economy, everyone wants to stretch their dollars as far as possible. This is especially true when it comes to healthcare expenses, including the cost of prescription medications. If you're not taking steps to save money on your prescriptions, you might be spending more than you need to.

Have you ever gone to the pharmacy to pick up a prescription, only to be hit with a shockingly high price? Stop before you shop! There are alternatives to paying full price for prescription drugs. Here are five tips for cutting the cost of your prescription medications:

1. Ask your physician about RX coupons. Many drug manufacturers offer RX coupons or prescription discounts on their products.

2. Shop around to find a prescription discount program. A prescription discount is a coupon that reduces the cost of your prescription medicine. Many pharmacies and health insurance companies offer discount cards and coupons to help customers save on

the cost of their medicines. These discounts are not considered insurance but can provide meaningful savings on the total cost of a prescription.

3. Look at the drug maker’s website to find the cheapest retailer. Prices for prescription drugs can vary widely depending on where you go. Shop around for the best price.

4. Check for generic alternatives. Generic drugs can be much cheaper than their brand-name counterparts, and they work just as well. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether there is a generic alternative to the medication you need.

5. Use your reimbursement account to pay for the lower priced prescription. The cost of the medicine agreed to by the customer and its health insurance provider is an eligible health care expense.

Read the full article here.

UPCOMING EVENTS

All Educators!

Career & Technical Admins!

Registration is now open for the 2023 AAEA Fall Conference to be held on October 10, 2023, at the Benton Event Center.

Registration is now open for the 2023 AACTEA Conference to be held on November 9, 2023, at the Delta Hotel in Little Rock.

CoSN: Support for Technology Administrators

CoSN is a great resource for school technology administrators. Check this page monthly for links to articles to assist technology leaders as they navigate through digital learning transformations.

Click Here to Read About This Month’s Topics

EmpowerED Superintendents Initiative - Resources for School Leaders

AASA/CoSN EmpowerED Superintendents edLeader Panel Series

CoSN Annual Conference, "Leading for Innovation: At Warp Speed"

CoSN Membership

Instructional Leader

This segment features content from other AAEA publications. Instructional Leader is a quarterly publication available to subscribing districts. The following excerpt comes from the September 2023 issue.

LIVING OUT THE WORDS IN OUR JOB DESCRIPTIONS

DEVELOP COORDINATE RESEARCH BUDGET DIRECT IMPLEMENT EVALUATE

Words written in our job descriptions. Words heavy in responsibility, management and the business of school, yet they don’t encompass the most important part of our work. The work of children. The work of learning. The work happening in our classrooms.

In the preschool classroom, I can ask a 3 year old “what are you learning” and hear an academically rich explanation of the life cycle of the butterfly. Even though she may not be able to pronounce chrysalis, it is evident she knows what it is. This simple conversation is a clear evaluation of the work of the preschool teachers’ PLC to unpack standards, identify clear learning targets, and write student success criteria for their standards. It is also evidence of student growth. This shy child barely spoke at the beginning of the school year. Her growth is a powerful story of the importance of early childhood education.

When I drop into a junior high robotics classroom, I watch the 'bots battle it out. Then I ask multiple groups, “what is the most challenging part of your learning in this class?” I also ask what support they need to succeed and grow. With a clear need for

more motors and opportunities to take more risks in their robot builds, these student responses provide not only evaluation of the funding utilized to start this course, but they send me off to research, plan and budget for the support students vocalize. The stories of this group of students become the foundation for collaboration between our school and our local industry leaders. Together, we build a plan that will build career success.

Or asking a high school student, “what are you most proud of this school year?" and listening to an explanation of how he raised his ACT score 6 points because of John Baylor. Again, a simple evaluation of the budget and evidence of coordinated effort of the high school building leadership team to implement an ACT prep program. This conversation is more powerful than the data report from the principal that shows increases in ACT scores. His story stays with me as we plan for the next school year.

Classroom visits, ongoing conversations, and listening to the learners builds the narrative of the learning. It builds a plan for improving learning. It keeps the most important thing front and center as we develop improvement plans for growth, coordinate resources, research evidence based best practices, budget funds, direct resources, and then implement and evaluate the plan. It keeps children at the center of our job descriptions. It keeps learning at the heart of our work. It keeps us motivated to work and lead. It holds me and other leaders accountable for being in the classroom. Together, we can live out the words of C. S. Lewis. “Children are not a distraction from more important work. They are the most important work.”

Contributor: Novella Humphrey, Director of Curriculum/Federal Programs, Southside School District

The AAEA Job Board is a calendar-year subscription that assists districts with the ever-increasing challenge of recruiting quality staff. It is a significant resource for educators, both in-state and outof-state, seeking employment in Arkansas schools.

Over 165 school districts are participating in the program, which has been extremely helpful to schools and educators over the years. The site is used year-round and is accessed extensively during the second semester. It is not unusual to see over 400 jobs posted on the Job Board at one time. With an account, school districts may post unlimited job vacancies throughout the year.

To subscribe (by district) or to post job openings, contact Lana Webb, Administrative Specialist, at l.webb@theaaea.org or at 501-372-1691.

Job Openings

District Name Position

Pulaski County Special School District Secondary Assistant Principal

Foreman School District Interim Superintendent

Foreman School District Superintendent

Newport School District Transportation Director

Ozark Mountain School District District Treasurer and Bookkeeper

Watson Chapel School District Assistant Principal

Trumann School District Central Office Bookkeeper

Jacksonville North Pulaski County Interim Assistant High School Principal

Hazen School District Chief Finance Officer/Bookkeeper