Hotline | January 2022

JANUARY 2022

HOTLINE

A PUBLICATION OF THE WASHINGTON ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS

50 Years of WASA

Celebrating five decades of transforming Washington’s schools.

TRUST

CHANGE

COMMUNITY

Sarah Thornton reflects on our second pillar.

Explore the challenges, changes, and triumphs of the 1990s.

Sergio Hernandez reflects on his time with WASA and a new community: WALAS.

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NEW BEGINNINGS Welcome, new school administrators and superintendents! We’re glad you’re here.

IN THIS ISSUE OF

HOTLINE Making the Time to Do Nothing

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President Aaron Leavell reflects on current challenges, looks ahead to the future, and reminds us to find balance.

WASA Board Nominations Open

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We are now accepting nominations and letters of interest for our open board positions. Terms begin July 1, 2022.

...like we’ve been there before.

No matter if the rain starts to fall—or a new variant of COVID-19 appears—WASA will be here for you as a network of colleagues, mentors, and friends.

The Value of Trust Pasco Assistant Superintendent of Legal Services Sarah Thornton reflects on the Value of Trust.

PLC at Work 50th Anniversary Sponsors

In this issue, we’ll dust off our floppy disks and microfiche as we explore stories and pictures from the WASA archives. Current and former WASA members and executives have shared their stories about this exciting decade in WASA’s history.

The 1990s

We’ll also highlight current stories of resilience, hope, and determination.

We start the new year with a renewed committment to leadership in providing equity and excellence in student learning and leadership in developing competent, visionary, and ethical leaders.

2022 WASA Awards

Thank you to Joel Aune, Aaron Leavell, Sheila Chard, Shari Parsons, Lisa Gehman, Bella Troniani, Sarah Thornton, Amber Birks, Tanisha Felder, Harry Amend, Gay Selby, Ellen Wolf, Barbara Mertens, Norm Wisner, Larry Nyland, Jim Shoemake, and Sergio Hernandez for your contributions to this issue of Hotline.

Do you have an idea for our next issue of Hotline? Send an email to Shari Parsons.

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WASA member Amber Birks shares her experience with the WASA PLC at Work program.

Pull out your moon shoes, pagers, and neon everything—in our third 50th anniversary issue of Hotline, we’re heading back to the 1990s!

Cover collage: A peek into the 1990s from the WASA archives, featuring WASA leaders, members, and conference attendees.

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Our sponsors are true partners in all we do at WASA. Help us thank our eight amazing 50th anniversary sponsors!

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Explore the next decade of WASA’s history in this issue of Hotline.

Legislative Landscape

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Read testimonials from Ellen Wolf and Harry Amend as you explore the legislative landscape of the 90s.

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Learn more about awards and honors offered by WASA and our sponsors.

ASA: Finding What’s Next

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WASA member Tanisha Felder shares her experience with the Aspiring Superintendents Academy.

WASA Employee Spotlight

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Lisa Gehman centers her work on serving and supporting our members. We’re so glad she’s part of the team!

Northwest Reception

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Meet us in Nashville! Join school administrators from across our region at a special reception.

SIRS Corner

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Read about the benefits of joining SIRS.

AASA Corner

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Browse upcoming events and opportunities from AASA.

Contact Us We’re here for you. Find the contact information you need!

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1 | HOTLINE

A MESSAGE FROM OUR WASA PRESIDENT

Making the Time to Do Nothing As we bid 2021 a farewell and usher in 2022, I find myself shaking my head (or SMH, as my own kids would text it), reminiscing about the past two years: the many difficult challenges, the lessons learned, and the positive changes that have occurred due to social unrest and the ongoing pandemic. Like any new year, there is a renewed opportunity for hope and growth—personally, professionally, and in society as a whole.

For central office leaders, the current demands and types of support desperately needed are vast and unparalleled now more than any other time in our history. By nature of our positions, we are accustomed to jumping in and helping to cover a building for a day or teaching a class periodically when called upon. Today, it is a necessity.

The core of our system is strained, and our public education responsibilities focus on managing crisis. Staff and student illness is prevalent, contact tracing and COVID testing in schools is non-stop, substitute shortages are the new norm, bus route cancellations are a daily occurrence, and lively school board meetings have become a stark reality. Our desire to and priority on implementing the equitable, socialemotional, and academic acceleration needs of our students is enhanced, but this focus shifts as the day-to-day demands take over.

And yet, we lead on, because while we weren’t built for this level of load, we are wired to act in the present and provide hope for the future.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve stood in front of the mirror in the past 20 months and asked myself if I have what it takes. A true gut-check. On some days, I’m not so sure, but I know I am not alone. I remind myself: If not me, then who? If not now, then when? I invite you to take that same hard look in the mirror and remind yourself of the many lives you have positively impacted, the difference you make each day, the hope you provide, and the promise you made to yourself to live out your “why” for the students you serve.

So how do we do it? How do we continue to lead and manage a crisis while holding ourselves together? I suggest striving to find

a balance. Work and personal balance is not a new concept. In fact, it appears in many interview protocols on how to achieve balance while performing in stressful positions.

JANUARY REMINDERS

In the words of Brene Brown, “Stressed is being in the weeds. Overwhelmed is being blown.” She says that doing nothing is the only way back for someone who is totally overwhelmed. Therefore, nothingness can be perceived as the opposite of overwhelmed.

Share Your Story We’d like to highlight your experience with WASA in our 50th Anniversary Celebration issues of Hotline. As we celebrate, reminisce, and reflect on the past 50 years, we know that none of it would have been possible without you, our members. If you’d like to share your story in the next issue of Hotline, please email Shari Parsons.

While my intent is genuine, I’m asked periodically by staff to stop telling them to take care of themselves and find balance during these tough times. For many, balance is impossible at this moment, or so it seems.

However, balance is a critical aspect for us to overcome and outlast the challenges before us.

Connect with Us

I encourage each of you—our school systems leaders—to do your best to take care of yourself, because we don’t have an option to not take care of others.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for information on upcoming conferences and workshops, legislative news and updates, and school news.

Be consumed by the things that bring you joy as a human as often as you can. Prioritize time for you. Make the time to do nothing.

Update Your Profile If you haven’t already, please help us keep our membership directory up to date by taking a moment to upload your photo to your WASA member profile page.

Take good care!

Contact Sheila Chard if you have questions or need assistance.

Aaron Leavell, WASA President

WE NEED YOU!

Board Nominations Open WASA is seeking nominations for four leadership positions on our Board of Directors. Terms begin July 1, 2022.

The following positions are currently open: •

Superintendents Component Chair-elect Three-year commitment

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Instructional Program Administrators Component (IPAC) Chair-elect Three-year commitment

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Business and Personnel Administrators Component (BPAC) Chair-elect Three-year commitment

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Principal Component Chair Two-year commitment

The deadline to submit a letter of interest for these board positions is February 16, 2022.

Ballots will be distributed to component groups on March 1, 2022.

If you are interested in filling one of these WASA Board positions or making a nomination, please contact Joel Aune.

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THE THREE PILLARS OF WASA

The Value of Trust WASA’s mission is anchored in the three pillars of Leadership, Trust, and Advocacy. In this issue, WASA Board Member Sarah Thornton shares her perspective on the pillar of trust.

The last two years have highlighted the vital role school district administrators play in their communities. In addition to providing learning opportunities for students, many schools and district offices became de facto community health centers. Families turned to schools for assistance and answers, and many community members laid their fears and frustrations at the feet of school boards and superintendents.

No emergency operations plan could have prepared us for the emotional and psychological toll of this pandemic. Yet school leaders stepped up and stepped in because our communities needed us and trusted us to help.

The value of trust is one of WASA’s three pillars, and never has trust been so essential to our effectiveness as community leaders. In November, Dr. Michelle Price wrote that these challenges bring us new opportunities to reinvent ourselves as a system to meet the needs of our children. Educational leaders know

from experience that embarking on this kind of change requires buy-in from stakeholders.

We will not be able to fully embrace these emerging opportunities on our own. We will need the support and confidence of our parents, families, students, and policymakers. With our communities so polarized, strengthening this trust will be especially challenging.

The WASA Code of Ethics can provide guideposts for collaborative leadership that inspires trust. Three principles in the Code are especially pertinent in the current context of our work: •

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Decisions centered on student success.

More than academics, this principle sets the standard for ensuring our systems support student social and emotional well-being, belonging, and inclusivity.

When families know the best interest of students is at the heart of difficult decisions, trust can be maintained even in the face of disagreement.

Honesty and integrity. This principle requires truth, consistency, and transparency. Sharing information, being honest when we don’t have answers, and

meeting our communities where they are to facilitate genuine participation in problem-solving can grow trust and foster long-term connections.

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Protecting the civil and human rights of all individuals. The right of families and community members to be heard, and for their concerns to be given respectful consideration, is fundamental to this principle. We are called upon to be neutral, setting aside our personal opinions to hear different points of view. The simple act of listening, rather than arguing or debating, can effectively lower the temperature and help us find common ground with diverse stakeholders.

Amidst the challenges of the past two years, we have found creative solutions. The opportunities to connect with colleagues through WASA will be invaluable for us to share those successes, bring new ideas to our communities, and reinforce our trust in one another. I am grateful for each of you and eager to see what lies ahead.

Sarah Thornton is currently serving as Assistant Superintendent of Legal Services in the Pasco School District. Sarah also sits on WASA’s Professional Standards and Ethics Committee.

DECEMBER 2021 | IN BRIEF

Board Minutes The Board approved the following: • Consent Calendar—November 2021 Comparative Membership Report • WASA Board Minutes—September 26, 2021 • August 2021 Balance Sheet, Income Statement, and Trial Balance The Executive Director’s Report included: • 2022 Board of Directors elections • 2022–23 president-elect nominations • Status of the WASA 2021–22 goals, action steps, and tasks WASA Assistant Executives provided reports on: • Legislative update • WASA engagement strategy • Management reviews • Member assistance • SIRS • ERNN workshops • Just in Time Zoom webinars • Quick facts since the Sept. Board Meeting • What’s next in professional learning

Our January Board meeting will be held in conjunction with the WASA/WSSDA/WASBO Legislative Conference.

January 30

10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | via Zoom

CELEBRATING WA SOY SUSAN ENFIELD Dr. Enfield named 2022 Washington Superintendent of the Year Dr. Enfield embodies the Highline Promise: “Every student in Highline Public Schools is known by name, strength, and need and graduates prepared for the future they choose.”

Above: WASA Executive Director Joel Aune joins Dr. Susan Enfield and the Highline Public Schools Board of Directors to present Dr. Enfield with her 2022 Washington Superintendent of the Year plaque. Congratulations, Dr. Enfield!

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THIS WEEK IN OLYMPIA (TWIO)

WASA PROGRAM PERSPECTIVES

PLC at Work My leadership background mostly centers around building highperforming PLCs & MTSS systems at the building level and at the ELA Horizontal Team. My area of leadership growth is learning how to build and support a consistent and concise PLC framework districtwide, across all content areas.

The WASA PLC at Work professional learning and coaching sessions with Janel Keating (White River Superintendent) and nationally recognized faculty are incredibly impactful as a leader.

Don’t forget to check out the latest news happening in Olympia every Friday during session! Your copy of This Week in Olympia (TWIO) is waiting in your email inbox each Friday during the Legislative Session.

You can browse current and past issues of TWIO on our website.

The PLC faculty provide continuous just-in-time coaching and solutions. I am in a continuous coaching conversation with some of the most skilled instructional leaders in the nation!

For example, Janel meets frequently with our leadership team and is coaching our teams on site. Tim Kanold’s session, “Understanding Mathematics Instruction and Tasks in a PLC at Work,” was very impactful. It helped me understand how common unit planning

THANK YOU, SPONSORS! Corporate sponsorship has always been an essential element of WASA’s ability to provide an exemplary professional learning and networking experience for our members at a reasonable cost.

But our sponsors provide more than just resources for WASA to deliver affordable conferences, workshops, institutes, and academies. Our corporate sponsors are true partners, as they view this relationship with you as a unique and altruistic one. Thank you, 50th Anniversary sponsors!

and effective lesson design can help build a consistent PLC framework and ensure academic equity by creating and implementing a guaranteed and viable curriculum districtwide across all content areas.

WASA PLC at Work professional learning and coaching sessions are helping me grow as a leader and providing the knowledge and resources to operationalize the research surrounding improving learning for every student.

Being part of this professional learning is guaranteed to be some of the most purposeful work of my career!

— The registration process for Cohort II of WASA PLC at Work will open soon. Please contact Mike Nelson to learn more.

Amber Birks is the Assistant Director of PreK–12 MTSS and AVID in the Wenatchee School District. Amber supports her district’s three-year journey in the WASA Solution Tree Project.

PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM WASA places a high priority on supporting its members 24 hours a day. WASA executives are experienced, professional colleagues who are available to advise members on situations related to their roles as education leaders. Active WASA members are eligible to access the following through our Professional Assistance Program: • • • • • •

Advice and Legal Counsel Legal Services Ethics Assistance Conflict Intervention Contract Review Mentorship

Questions? Please contact Andy Wolf.

Andy can be reached at 360.489.3646 or by email.

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A NEW DECADE OF WASA BEGINS The next decade in WASA’s history brought with it new opportunities to strengthen our partnerships, advocate for statewide change, and deepen our commitments to equity, excellence, and professional learning. » Howard Coble retired from his post as Executive Director in 1991. He would remain involved in WASA until his passing in 2016. » Executive Directors John Fotheringham (1992–97) and Doyle Winter (1997–02) led WASA through the rest of the decade, alongside executive staff members Marcia Costello, Ray Tobiason, Barbara Mertens, and Joann Mychals, among others. » WASA launched This Week in Olympia (TWIO) to keep members informed with upto-the-minute updates on legislative action.

Members received issues by broadcast fax. » In 1993, George Pasnick was honored at the WASA Summer Conference for his 54-year tenure as a WASA member.

THE ROARING 90s I started my career as a math and English teacher and baseball coach at Central Valley High School in 1969. In a largely agricultural and blue-collar attendance area, we enjoyed strong family and community support. Our Future Farmers of America club had 150 members, each of whom wore primarily white tee shirts and Wrangler jeans with a chew can circle in the back pocket.

Tobacco was legal for staff and students, and some of our most mature leaders used the covered smoking area during lunch hour.

Many of these students were already in the workforce. A culturally acceptable way of solving student conflict was a fistfight (both girls and boys) in the parking lot or at Ron’s DriveIn. Our principal, Bill Ames Sr., was the most influential person in the Spokane Valley.

During the 1970s and 80s, federal and state legislation changed the landscape of our schools, including: Title IX in 1972, the Special

» Professional development opportunities abounded in the 1990s. Members could participate in our Project Leadership, LEAD Outreach, and Leadership Academy professional development programs. We offered dozens of conferences and institutes over the course of the 1990s, including our annual fall conference, the WASA/ AWSP summer conference, and the WASA/ WCASE/OSPI Special Education Institute. » Education reform dominated the legislative scene in the 1990s. The Governor’s Council on Education Reform and Funding was formed in 1991. WASA supported key concepts of their final report, including redefining learning goals, developing new professional standards for teachers and administrators, and restoring local decision-making. » We continued to deepen partnerships with local, regional, and national organizations, including Educational Renewal Institute, Employee Relations and Negotiations

Education Act (i.e., IDEA, FAPE) in 1975, and A Nation at Risk Study in 1983.

In the 90s, The ADA, Choice Law, and the Becca Bill changed the ways we managed student issues. The grand daddy of them all was the State Reform Bill. Hundreds of teachers and administrators met around the state to create state curriculum standards. Statewide assessments were introduced, including proposed high-stakes tests for graduation.

Finally, “front page” accountability became a reality, with impacts that continue to challenge school districts today.

At times, Washington education in the 90s seemed like a cross between a threering circus and a gold rush.

Three memories stand out during my year as WASA President in the late 90’s: » During an open forum on the progress of Washington’s Reform efforts, surrounded by

Network, LEAD Consortium, WSSDA, AWSP, and SIRS. » Washington superintendents of the year Jerry Hester (1991, Spokane) and Brian Benzel (1993, Edmonds) made it to the national final four. Janet Barry (1996, Central Kitsap) was named National Superintendent of the Year. » The WASA website was up and running in April 1999. Members could access legislative, professional development, and governance information. WASA EduPortal was launched the following year. » Our membership blossomed and grew to include a more diverse membership than ever before. In 1998, 417 of our 1,091 active members were women. By 2000, women made up almost 50 percent of school administrators. Nevertheless, racial and ethnic diversity of school administrators still lagged behind student demographic diversity.

hundreds of educators, I found myself sitting at a folding table on the floor of the Capitol Rotunda with Superintendent of Public Instruction Teri Bergeson and Governor Gary Locke. » Upon the retirement of legendary WASA Director John Fotheringham, the interview committee was wrapping up WASA Assistant Director Doyle Winter’s interview for the Director’s job. Apparently concerned about the committee’s feelings about his age and an ankle injury that hobbled him during the previous year, Doyle proclaimed “and for those of you who are concerned about my age or ankle, I’ll be taking my daily 10K run right after work and I invite you to join me.” » Each year, every WASA president took special pride in hosting the Northwest Reception at the National AASA Convention.

After all, the WASA reception welcomed all attendees and was the only reception that still “carved meat.” The lines were legendary and the goodwill and leadership of WASA was known throughout the land.

Harry Amend, superintendent of the Freeman School District, served as WASA President in 1997–98.

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ELLEN WOLF REFLECTS...

Increasing Inclusion in the 90s When I became Superintendent of the Walla Walla Public Schools in 1990, I appreciated the support given to me by WASA staff and members. This was never more evident than when we had a fire in one of our schools, and WASA leadership reached out to us.

Although not the “Roaring 20s,” WASA in the 90s was filled with energy and opportunities for men AND women administrators in education, at both regional and state levels. Women administrators were in the minority at that time; however, many of the male WASA presidents graciously welcomed and included the women members.

A new organization, Northwest Women in Educational Administration (NWEA), was formed by a group of women leaders. It started in the 1980s as a place to meet other women Superintendents. Membership grew during the 90s. The organization focused on leadership development for women in educational leadership. It was a place to meet other women leaders and to participate in discussions and presentations of women, by women. Many

women became active members of both WASA and NWEA. I regularly attended the Regional WASA meetings held at the Educational Service District office in the Tri-Cities. The breadth of opportunities for professional development that WASA provided to the members was impressive. The agendas included timely presentations and opportunities for discussion, with experienced superintendents and central office colleagues. These not only increased my knowledge about school district leadership, but also resulted in lasting professional friendships.

WASA also offered excellent conferences and workshops to members statewide. The topics were always timely with qualified, experienced presenters and facilitators. Frequently, the presenters were from other parts of the country, giving us a broader view of educational practices.

Interaction with the Washington State Legislators was critical to WASA at both the state and local levels. Annually, WASA leaders developed a

GAY SELBY REFLECTS...

45 Years with WASA I was first introduced to WASA when I enrolled in 1974 in the WSU Educational Leadership program pursuing a superintendent credential and Ed.D. My first class was from George Brain, Dean of the College of Education, who had previously been Superintendent of the Bellevue School District and president of AASA. His mentorship started me on the path to the superintendency and later to the faculty of WSU. When I joined the Spokane School District in 1977, I joined WASA (very much an “old boys club”).

In fact, only superintendents could attend the annual conference and the superintendents of “first class (large)” school districts were all men.

a “first-class (large)” school district according to WSSDA) in 1980, I became immersed in WASA’s efforts leading to HB 1209, the Basic Education Act, which focused on improving student achievement. WASA played a key leadership role providing testimony and data to policy makers as this bill made its way through the Legislature. WASA worked alongside superintendents and central office administrators to implement the many provisions of the Basic Education Act.

As an assistant superintendent, with the encouragement of my superintendent, Walt Hitchcock, I ran for WASA President-elect in 1978— the first female and non-superintendent candidate.

In those days the campaign for this position looked like a political campaign. Even more interesting is that a third candidate (the only time in the history of WASA President-elect elections) was added to the ballot! I did not win the election.

My association with WASA has taken other routes since leaving the superintendency. One was working with WSSDA as a superintendent search consultant and the other was working as a clinical professor in Educational Leadership for WSU in the superintendent preparation program.

Along with my teaching colleagues in this program, we have taught and mentored many of the superintendents and other school leaders in Washington. WASA is an important contributor to this program, and over the years WASA leaders, superintendents, and school administrators have been its most valuable resource.

When I became superintendent of the Kelso School District (first woman superintendent of

As a WASA member for 45 years, I am proud to call it my professional association. It is

legislative platform. The 1998 WASA Legislative Platform was: 1.

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School Funding Simple Majority Education Reform School Construction Salaries Educational Options Retirement Safe Schools

Many of these may also be on the 2022 WASA Legislative Platform. In January 1992, WASA began a new publication called This Week in Olympia (TWIO) to keep members informed with updates on legislative action.

Of the plaques hanging in my office, my favorites are the WASA Leadership Award 1987 and my WASA 20-Year Award.

Ellen Wolf served as superintendent of the Walla Walla Public Schools from 1990 to 2000. She was elected WASA Superintendent Component Chair in 1997.

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IN THE NINE YEAR PERIOD FROM 1983 TO 1992, THE NUMBER OF FEMALE ADMINISTRATORS GREW BY 236% FROM 157 TO 370.

IN 1991, WASHINGTON LED THE NATION IN PERCENTAGE OF WOMEN HOLDING THE SUPERINTENDENCY.

continually growing and changing to meet the challenges encountered by public schools while always tending to the professional growth of its members.

Gay Selby, a long-time WASA member, served as superintendent in Kelso beginning in 1980. Later, as a faculty member at WSU, she was an integral part of the superintendent preparation program.

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BARBARA MERTENS REFLECTS...

Legislative Priorities in the 90s The 1990s ushered in an era of intense scrutiny of public schools. As Dr. Nyland and Dr. Winter described in the last two issues of Hotline, WASA provided research, documentation, and district-level work focusing on improving student learning long before it became a matter of legislative and public concern. WASA’s critical roles have been—and are—the documentation and preservation of our work, lessons, and history to provide a foundation for each new era with its own unique challenges.

In 1991, Governor Booth Gardner’s Council on Education Reform and Funding (GCERF) began its work. The Legislature passed HB 1209, also known as the Education Reform Act and the Commission on Student Learning, in 1993.

entities, education associations, state agencies, the Legislature, and the governor’s office was essential. Support to administrators to improve student learning was on-going. Workshops, seminars, and conferences dealt with Student Learning Objectives, Best Practices, EvidenceBased Research, Managing and Leading, and myriad other topics.

What became even more apparent as the decade unfolded was that while a new system was being mandated, the funding to accomplish the goals was not being provided. The underlying problem was an inequitable and inadequate funding system for basic education.

School superintendents and administrators undertook the task of organizing, managing, and leading everyone in their districts to incorporate the EALR (Essential Academic Learning Requirements), Student Learning Objectives, and the WASL (Washington Assessment of Student Learning)—a “standards-based accountability system.”

WASA’s work on The Ample School Funding Project began in earnest and contributed to the McCleary v the State lawsuit filed with the Supreme Court in January 2007. The state’s paramount duty is to provide a free and appropriate education for all students. Until this duty is fulfilled by fully funding public schools, efforts initiated in the 90s to take funding away from public schools—to provide privatization options like charter schools—were vigorously opposed by WASA.

WASA’s coordination of work and communication among all the interested

As all the activities described above were proceeding, the state continued its practice of

over-reliance on district levies to meet school district financial needs. Relief from the unfair super majority requirement for school levies became a priority.

WASA was instrumental in pursuing the simple majority through the legislative process in the 90s and on into the 2000s.

We were finally successful in sending the initiative, changing the super majority requirement to the people in 2007. The requirement had been in the state constitution for over 70 years.

Congratulations WASA on 50 years of excellence. I want to thank the WASA staff— it is and always has been about teamwork and support. I feel very fortunate to have served as Assistant Director for Government Relations. I also want to thank our superintendents and administrators for the courage, expertise, dedication, and leadership you bring to your staff and students every day.

Dr. Barbara Mertens served as the Assistant Executive Director of Government Relations at WASA from 1994 until her retirement in 2010.

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

PRESIDENTS OF THE 90s

1998 School funding Salaries

WASA members elected ten outstanding presidents to lead WASA into a new decade with changing student and school needs. Our past presidents of the 90s were fierce advocates for students, administrators, and public education.

1990–91

Richard Harris

1991–92

Michael Bernazzani

1992–93

Norman Wisner

1993–94

James Menzies

1994–95

Herbert Berg

1995–96

Peter Ansingh

1996–97

H. Jerome Hansen

1997–98

Harry Amend

1998–99

Jim Shoemake

1999–00

Gary Livingston

1990

1992 Compensation Administrative salaries

1992 Restructuring 1993 School Construction 1998 Safe Schools School Construction

1992 Levy Equalization 1993 Extended Staff School Year 1998 Educational Options

Almost all of our legislative priorities throughout the 90s centered on three things: adequate funding, finding balance, and building a better future.

1991

1992

1993

1994

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LEARNING WITH WASA IN THE 90s We continued to offer new, innovative professional development opportunities to our members in the 90s, including: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

WASA/WCASE/OSPI Special Education Institute WASA Strategic Planning Training Program WASA Fall Conference WASA/WSSDA Legislative Conference AWSP/WASA and LEAD Consortium Conference WASA Small Schools Conference WASA/AWSP Summer Conference WASA Superintendent Component Group Conference WASA Leadership Academy WASA/AWSP Administrative Team Workshop Aspiring Leaders Workshop WASA Grant-Writing Workshop WASA/WSSDA School Facilities Conference Teamship Academy

THE CHALLENGE OF SYSTEMS CHANGE

by Larry Nyland In 1992, Larry Nyland developed four elements (reproduced below) that represent a new way of looking at our job as school administrators. Thirty years later, these strategies remain relevant as we evaluate the changing needs of our students, teachers, and schools. Consider their value in your leadership:

1 2 3 4

SYSTEMS CHANGE

Strategy: Be hard on the system and soft on people.

COLLABORATION

Strategy: “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”

(Steven Covey)

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Strategy: Go early and often to your community.

CONTINUOUS RENEWAL

Strategy: Ask tough questions and create a need.

NORM WISNER REFLECTS...

A Lasting Legislative Impact In the early and mid-1990s I had the good fortune to participate in two large projects that passed through the Legislature. One was GCERF—the Governor’s Council on Education Reform and Funding which was completed in 1992—and the other was K–20 Telecommunications System Planning.

Governor Booth Gardner Created GCERF in 1991 and brought together a wide network of professionals to help determine the future of education reform in Washington state. While we had several initial ideas, we determined the necessary and fundamental question was: “What do we want all students to know and be able to do?” With this established, we worked tirelessly together creating and ultimately recommending four goals to the Legislature: » Communicate effectively and responsibly in a variety of ways and settings. » Know and apply the core principles of mathematics, the arts, and humanities, social, physical, and life sciences, and health and fitness.

1995

1996

» Think critically and creatively and integrate experience and knowledge to form reasoned judgements and solve problems. » Function as caring and responsible individuals by being a contributing member to families, work groups, and communities.

Some of our best ideas came from informal sessions that often occurred during our lunch times. One of these was the Certificate of Mastery, which would show student growth and ability in all four proposed goals.

Our second major project was the K–20 telecommunications plan. The goal of this plan was to connect all K–12 schools, higher education, community and technical colleges, and libraries to the internet. In 1995, while working for the ESDs, I was informed of a plan to ask the Legislature for $6 million to develop a network for higher education. I went to the meeting and suggested that K–12 schools would also benefit from such a program, which was well received by the committee. I worked closely with a small group from OSPI and higher education to create a model to phase technology into schools

1997

for all students, and the name K–20 stuck. Our new program was awarded $54 million by the Legislature, and the design and creation of ESDs as the hubs ensured that all districts could have equal access to the internet, which would not have happened if each district or ESD had to pay individually.

The K–20 network is still going strong, and the framework created has evolved with technology.

While the GCERF goals and Certificate of Mastery have morphed into different acronyms over the years, their basic structure remains the same. We want students to develop strong academic skills, be well-rounded citizens, be able to think critically, and contribute positively with their families and communities. One thing is for certain, though: no single person could have accomplished all of this on their own. It was group dynamics and care for the future of our students that have allowed these ideas to flourish and stand the test of time.

Norm Wisner, who was elected WASA President in 1992, served as superintendent for 12 years in the Tumwater School District.

1998

1999

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JIM SHOEMAKE REFLECTS...

Up to the Challenge As I think about WASA in the 90s, I am reminiscent of my arrival in Mukilteo, having left my job as superintendent of schools in Joplin, Missouri. One always wonders what the professional involvement might hold from both the organizational perspective as well as the relationship with the surrounding superintendents.

I was not disappointed on either count. Doyle Winter, John Fotheringham, and staff at WASA were quick to reach out to assist in my transition to the job, including familiarizing me with significant laws that would possibly be different than Missouri. That was 1987, and shortly thereafter I joined WASA and got involved in its work locally and statewide.

I was greeted in 1990 with a very long teachers’ strike, the first of my career as a superintendent.

WASA immediately reached out and offered much guidance and support throughout the event. Likewise, the superintendents in neighboring districts stayed in touch offering any assistance they could provide. One even sent his PR director to the district to aid my PR director in the ongoing communications.

Fortunately, no more problems arose after it was resolved and I was so thankful for the support I had received from both WASA and my fellow superintendents.

I soon got more involved in the work of WASA and eventually served on the board and later as President. I was always proud of how WASA led the charge in leadership development and legislative issues. One highlight for me was WASA asking me to be involved with a group of administrators in

the design and implementation of the first leadership academy.

It was a great effort that led to some outstanding opportunities for professional growth and was a precursor to the leadership academy becoming an ongoing effort in WASA’s continuing efforts to build a strong cadre of administrators for our state. WASA’s enthusiasm for these kinds of efforts reflect a truly professional standard of excellence.

Finally, it has always been obvious to me that through all of the changes in our education world, WASA has always been up to challenge and continues to lead on all fronts making our system better for the children we serve.

Jim Shoemake, WASA President in 1998–99, served as superintendent in the Mukilteo and Tacoma school districts for 19 years.

SERGIO HERNANDEZ REFLECTS...

Creating New Communities Being asked to serve as a school district superintendent for the first time can be an intimidating experience, to say the least. Even for experienced superintendents, the challenges of moving to a new district and getting to know the staff and community, as well as a new board, can presents its challenges.

I can remember vividly the first time I was asked to serve the small, rural community of Tekoa as their superintendent. Not sure of what my first steps should be, I contacted John Dekker at WASA for advice as it related to my contract.

That initial contact led to an invitation to the New Superintendent Workshop in Olympia with Doyle Winters and the WASA staff. The year was 1999, and thus began my 22-year journey

as a proud WASA member through three different superintendencies.

Throughout the years, WASA has been an organization I could always turn to whenever I had questions, looked for professional development opportunities, or needed a sounding board that would listen to my concerns and frustrations.

Approximately three years ago, I contacted Helene Paroff at WASA to see what could be done to increase the number of Latino administrators in Washington State. I mentioned that there was growing interest in forming a Washington Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (WALAS).

Out of 295 districts in Washington State, there

were only seven Latino superintendents at that time, and yet approximately 23 percent of students were Latinos. Since that initial conversation, WASA has been a strong partner of the newly formed WALAS association and is set to help sponsor our first statewide conference. With WASA’s support, WALAS currently has 208 members.

I believe in and support WASA’s mission and would encourage my fellow colleagues to stay engaged with the organization. It is only when we partner together that we become stronger advocates for all students.

Sergio Hernandez served as superintendent in the Tekoa and Freeman School Districts.

9 | HOTLINE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers

President: Aaron Leavell, Bremerton President-elect: Michelle Whitney, Pasco Past president: Brian Talbott, East Valley Secretary: Jennifer Bethman, Bethel Treasurer: Linda McKay, NCESD 171

Regions 101 105 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 123 171

Jake Dingman, Oakesdale Henry Strom, Grandview Larry Francois, NWESD 189 Chrys Sweeting, Arlington Shaun Carey, Enumclaw Laurie Dent, Sumner-Bonney Lake Nathan McCann, Ridgefield Patrick Murphy, Olympia Dana Rosenbach, North Mason Wade Smith, Walla Walla Tracey Beckendorf-Edou, Cascade

Components

BPAC: Sarah Thornton, Pasco, chair; Melissa Beard, Steilacoom, chair-elect IPAC: Jennifer Bethman, Bethel, chair; Jenny Rodriguez, Yakima, chair-elect; Linda McKay, NCESD 171, past chair Principals: Matt Yarkosky, Bethel, chair Special Education: John Sander, Franklin Pierce, chair Superintendents: Jeff Snell, Vancouver, chair; James Everett, Meridian, chair-elect; Deb Clemens, North Thurston, past chair

Liasons

AASA: Kevin McKay, Sunnyside; Michelle Price, NCESD 171; Nathan McCann, Ridgefield; Krestin Bahr, Peninsula Higher Ed: Marge Chow, City University OSPI: Michaela Miller PESB: Alexandra Manuel Retirees: Rick Anthony SBE: Susana Reyes, Shoreline WIAA: Doug Burge, Zillah

REGION PRESIDENTS 101 Travis Hanson, Deer Park 105 Jinger Haberer, Ellensburg 108 Mary Sewright, Mount Baker 109 Dana Geaslen, Edmonds 110 Ron Thiele, Issaquah 111 Michael Farmer, Dieringer 112 Mary Beth Tack, Kelso 113 Brian Wharton, Yelm 114 Marty Brewer, Port Angeles 123 Michelle Whitney, Pasco 171 Tracey Beckendorf-Edou, Cascade

New WASA Members We’ve welcomed 29 new members since November 2021.

Our newest class of WASA members joins nearly 2,000 members from across the state.

Collectively, they represent diverse districts from every corner of our state.

Please join us in welcoming: Sophia Kristina Agtarap, Sumner-Bonney Lake Caroline Antholt, Peninsula Abbie Barabe, Peninsula Jessica Bayless, Raymond Natalie Boyle, Peninsula Mimi Brown, Everett James Cantonwine, Peninsula Wendy Castleman, Issaquah Peter Elzey, Nine Mile Falls Rebecca Ensminger, Central Kitsap

Julie Fairall, Bremerton Joy Giovanini, Peninsula Jeri Goebel, Peninsula Kris Hagel, Peninsula Kim Hayes, Peninsula Theodore Howard, Tukwila Paulette Johnson, Castle Rock Stacey Locke, Yakima Teri Martin, Toppenish Cathy McCutcheon, Peninsula Richard Patterson, Lake Washington Monica Phillips, Snoqualmie Valley Jonathon Poolman, Lakewood Joseph Potts, Peninsula Brandy Reddinger, Peninsula Kirsten Rue, North Thurston Carly Takata, Hoquiam Lynne Truitt, Peninsula Mary Williams, Edmonds

RECOGNIZING SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS

2022 WASA Awards Superintendent of the Year

Applications open May 1–October 1, 2022 One award winner. This award is designed to recognize the outstanding leadership of active, frontline superintendents. Washington’s SOY is awarded a $1,000 check from D. A. Davison & Company to use toward an educational program of their choice.

LEARN MORE Pemco | Robert J Handy Awards

Applications open January 26–March 10, 2022 Three award winners. One highly effective superintendent, central office administrator, or building administrator will be selected from a small district (up to 500 students), medium-sized district (501–2,000 students), and large district (more than 2,000 students).

A $10,500 award will be divided equally among the three winners to support personal growth, professional growth, or a successful school or district program.

LEARN MORE Gallagher | Howard Coble Scholarship

Applications open February 16–March 30, 2022. *Must attend a PESB approved program One scholarship recipient. Designed to assist talented, under-represented educators to pursue graduate studies that prepare for central office leadership positions. This $5,000 scholarship will be awarded to an educator who is presently enrolled in or will begin graduate studies in educational leadership by fall 2022.

LEARN MORE Piper Sander | Doyle Winter Scholarship

Applications open March 1–April 21, 2022 One scholarship recipient. Designed to assist committed educational administrators as they enhance the skills and abilities needed to serve as educational leaders in the field of public education. This $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a school administrator who is in or will begin a doctoral program in education.

LEARN MORE

Honorary Awards

STATE AWARDS

Applications open February 23–May 4, 2022 WASA honors and recognizes individuals and groups through four state awards: the Golden Gavel Award, the D. A. Davidson Barbara Mertens Legacy Award, the Service to WASA Award, and the WASA Leadership Award.

REGION AWARDS

Applications open March 1–May 1, 2022 (deadlines vary by region) Region-level awards include the WASA Student Achievement Leadership Award, the Award of Merit, the Community Leadership Award, the WASA Student Leadership Award, the TwentyYear Award, and the Retirement Award.

LEARN MORE

10 | HOTLINE

WASA PROGRAM PERSPECTIVES

Finding What’s Next The Aspiring Superintendent Academy was first introduced to me by my former superintendent.

When I received my doctorate from UW in the L4L program, I was primed to be an equity-focused educational leader. I had always considered the director of equity position to be my “dream job,” and when that happened, it felt like a great accomplishment. When I completed my fourth year in this role, I began to think about my “what’s next” around my leadership aspirations.

In the current landscape of education, I have begun to see my commitment to anti-racism and equity cannot only be the work I do in a role, but the way in which I lead in any of the positions I will hold in the future.

In the ASA cohort model, I learn from cohort members and wrestle with case studies that help me examine areas of growth and capacity as a leader. As a group, we are given dedicated time to learn from superintendents across the state and we are matched with experienced mentors intended to help support our future career goals.

With this experience and exposure, I can strengthen my leadership foundation and have the confidence and knowledge to do the equity focused systemic work that I am most passionate about.

— The registration process for Cohort III of the Aspiring Superintendents Academy opens soon.

Please contact Mike Nelson to learn more.

Dr. Tanisha Felder is the Director of Equity and Family Engagement in Shoreline School District.

Assistant Executive Director Dan Steele will post short, informative podcast episodes on key legislative issues throughout the 2022 Legislative Session. Weekly episodes of the WASA Legislative Report keep members informed on emerging conversations and hot topics in Olympia.

Subscribe Today!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher.

FEATURING LISA GEHMAN

WASA Employee Spotlight thing to do at WASA is helping members!”

What does your job entail at WASA? Customer service. I am first on the phones and involved in all aspects of our professional learning including registration, conference preparation, and set up. I am on point for membership processing. I also handle cash receipts and PayPal for SIRS, ERNN, and WSASCD.

What do you like most about your job?

Assisting and supporting members, who are our customers. I also like that my job keeps me very busy.

In this issue, we’re proud to spotlight Lisa Gehman, Professional Learning/ Membership Assistant. Lisa joined WASA in April 2016.

Mike Nelson, Assistant Executive Director of Professional Learning & Membership Services, shares: “Lisa defines kindness. She has shared on more than one occasion that her favorite

to that, I was an Information Manager in the Air Force for nearly 12 years.

What is your favorite memory at WASA? Going to Spokane in 2017 for the Summer Conference. It is a huge event and kind of crazy, but incredibly fun. I learned so much and it was great to be together with the entire WASA team. I can’t wait until 2023.

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?

Relax, watch movies, take walks, and cook with my husband. We enjoy time cooking together— AND eating!

How has WASA changed since you were hired?

Best vacation ever?

Working from home is the biggest change.

Professional Learning now has many more events and offerings to meet member needs.

We used to conduct about one event per month, but now we often do several virtual events in one week.

Where’s your favorite place in the world?

What were you doing before you were hired at WASA? I was a stay-at-home mom, taking care of my son who has special needs, as well as supporting my husband’s military career. Prior

It has been a while. Being in the Military, our vacations were coming home to see family.

Anywhere with my husband and son.

Do you have story about a former staff member that WASA members might enjoy?

Alyssa, who served as our receptionist. She had great energy and helped with so many things. We became close, and I still miss her.

She was very upbeat and always happy.

11 | HOTLINE

JOIN US IN NASHVILLE!

Northwest Reception Northwest Reception Omni Nashville Hotel Friday, February 18, 5–7 p.m.

ALASKA

MONTANA OREGON

NASHVILLE, TN | FEBRUARY 18, 2022 OMNI NASHVILLE HOTEL 5–7 P.M.

Are you attending the 2022 AASA National Conference on Education? Join colleagues from across the region at the Northwest Reception on Friday, February 18.

We’re so thankful for the support of our sponsors and fellow hosts—state associations from Alaska, Montana, and Oregon! The state associations would also like to recognize their continuing partnership with Education Northwest.

Electronic invitations will be sent to all registered attendees from the four states participating.

SIRS

Find out more about the benefits of becoming a SIRS member district.

SIRS is a nonprofit organization that provides data and information on school organization, administration, operation, finance, and instruction to specifically meet the needs of superintendents, central office administrators, principals, and school board members. SIRS contracts with WASA for management services.

Andy Wolf, WASA’s Assistant Executive Director for Administrative Services, serves as the SIRS Executive Director.

CONTACT US GENERAL INFORMATION 360.943.5717 / 800.859.9272 EXECUTIVE OFFICE

360.489.3641 / 360.352.6873 (FAX) Joel Aune, Executive Director | jaune@wasa-oly.org Shari Parsons, Executive Assistant | sparsons@wasa-oly.org

WASHINGTON

SPONSORED BY

The state associations would also like to recognize their continuing partnership with

NORTHWEST RECEPTION PROUDLY HOSTED BY

LEADERSHIP INFORMATION (LI)

LI is a series of monthly and quarterly articles that will help to shape and inform your educational leadership practice. These articles contain relevant school information research on the best practices being utilized in today’s educational setting. SIRS has partnered with Hanover Research to provide this service to our members.

SIRS SALARY SURVEY REPORTS

SIRS annually compiles and publishes a timely salary-and-benefits report of Washington’s school employees in three parts: 1) administrators, 2) classified personnel, and 3) teachers. Only SIRS members can access the full online surveys. The Excel spreadsheets, allowing members to create

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING & MEMBERSHIP SERVICES

360.489.3640 / 360.352.6873 (FAX)

Mike Nelson, Assistant Executive Director | mnelson@wasa-oly.org Lisa Gehman, Professional Learning / Membership Assistant lgehman@wasa-oly.org

ACCOUNTING 360.489.3643 / 360.352.6873 (FAX) Eve Johnson, Business/Infrastructure Manager ejohnson@wasa-oly.org

MEMBER SUPPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS

Bella Troniani, Communications/Production Support

360.489.3646

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS 360.489.3642

Andy Wolf, Assistant Executive Director | awolf@wasa-oly.org

Dan Steele, Assistant Executive Director | dsteele@wasa-oly.org Sheila Chard, Administrative Assistant | schard@wasa-oly.org

AASA CORNER The 2022 National Conference on Education will be held in Nashville, Tennessee, on February 17–19, 2022.

The theme for this year’s conference is “Leading for Student-Centered, EquityFocused Education.” Connect with like-minded leaders and share strategies on improving equity, personalization of education student outcomes, district performance, and so much more.

The 2022 National Conference on Education will require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test within 72 hours of arrival to ensure proper health and safety measures are in place. To register for the conference, visit the AASA website.

specialized reports by grouping information for any position from any size district.

SIRS LEGISLATIVE HANDBOOK

SIRS Legislative Handbook is an annual guide to the Washington State Legislature. It provides school administrators and professional associations with information about our state government including directories, website links and email addresses, legislative maps, and much more. The handbook is a valuable tool for participating effectively in the legislative process.

It is also an excellent addition for social studies classrooms and school libraries. The handbook is available online to SIRS members and can be downloaded and distributed to your staff.

WASA OFFICERS PRESIDENT

Aaron Leavell, Bremerton

PRESIDENT-ELECT

Michelle Whitney, Pasco

PAST PRESIDENT

Brian Talbott, East Valley–Spokane

SECRETARY

Jennifer Bethman, Bethel

TREASURER

Linda McKay, NCESD 171

FEBRUARY February 1

Equity Initiative “Caste” Book Study Session 4 of 7 | Zoom | 3–4:30 p.m.

February 2

March 1

PLC at Work Project District Leadership Workshop Zoom | 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

March 1

Inclusionary Practices Project Team Facilitators’ Academy Session 7 of 8 | Zoom | 9–10 a.m.

Instructional Leadership Network Statewide Workshop Zoom | 8:30–11:30 a.m.

March 1

February 3

March 2

Special Education Academy Session 2 of 6 | Zoom | 8:30–10 a.m.

February 4

Women in Leadership Virtual Session Zoom | 12–1 p.m.

February 8

Equity Initiative Cohort Session 2 of 4 | Zoom | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.

February 9

Aspiring Superintendents Academy Session 6 of 12 | Zoom | 9–11:30 a.m.

February 15

Inclusionary Practices Team Facilitators’ Academy Session 6 of 8 | Zoom | 9–10 a.m.

February 17

Aspiring Central Office Leadership Academy Session 5 of 8 | Zoom | 9–11 a.m.

February 18

Equity Initiative “Caste” Book Study Session 5 of 7 | Zoom | 3–4:30 p.m.

Aspiring Superintendents Academy Session Session 3 of 3 | Zoom | 9–10:30 a.m.

March 3

Special Education Director Academy Session 3 of 6 | Zoom | 8:30–10 a.m.

March 8

Equity Initiative Cohort Session 3 of 4 | Zoom | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.

March 9

PLC at Work Project School Board Session Zoom | 8:30–11:30 a.m.

March 9

Inclusionary Practices Project District Team Facilitator Meeting Session 7 of 9 | Zoom | 8–10 a.m.

March 14

PLC at Work Project District Leadership Workshop Zoom | 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Inclusionary Practices Project Webinar: Addressing Teacher Burnout Zoom | 8:30–10 a.m.

March 16

February 28

March 17

Mentor and Early Career Superintendents Academy Session 5 of 7 | Zoom | 9:30–11:30 a.m.

Mentors & Early Career Superintendents, 9:30–10:30 a.m.

Early Career Superintendents, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

MARCH March 1

WASA Board Equity Learning Lab Session 3 of 3 | Zoom | 8–10 a.m.

Aspiring Superintendents Academy Session 8 of 12 | Zoom | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Aspiring Central Office Leadership Academy Session 6 of 8 | Zoom | 1–4 p.m.

March 17

Instructional Leadership Network Statewide Workshop Zoom | 1–4 p.m.

March 21–22

Spring Conference for Small Schools Leaders Wenatchee Convention Center Exhibitor registration opens in December & conference registration opens in January

March 28

Mentor & Early Career Superintendent Academies Session 6 of 7 | Zoom Mentors & Early Career Superintendents, 9:30–10:30 a.m.

Early Career Superintendents, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

March 29

Equity Initiative Cohort Session 4 of 4 | Zoom | 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m.

March 30

Inclusionary Practces Project District Team Facilitator Meeting Session 8 of 9 | Zoom | 8:30–10 a.m.

APRIL April 5

Inclusionary Practices Team Facilitators’ Academy Session 8 of 8 | Zoom | 9–10 a.m.

April 5

Equity Initiative “Caste” Book Study Session 6 of 7 | Zoom | 3–4:30 p.m.

April 7

Special Education Director Academy Session 4 of 6 | Zoom | 8:30–10 a.m.

April 20

Aspiring Superintendents Academy Session 9 of 12 | Zoom | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

April 26

Instructional Leadership Network Statewide Workshop Zoom | 8:30–11:30 a.m.

April 27

Aspiring Central Office Leadership Academy Session 7 of 8 | Zoom | 8:30–11:30 a.m.

April 28

PLC at Work Project District Leadership Workshop Zoom | 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

April 29

Inclusionary Practices Project Webinar: Co-teaching and UDL Zoom | 8:30–11:30 a.m.

April 30

Women in Leadership Conference Campbell’s Resort, Chelan | 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Professional Learning Opportunities Continue your professional learning and growth with conferences, academies, and workshops from WASA Professional Learning. Find more at wasa-oly.org.