NOVEMBER 2021
HOTLINE
A PUBLICATION OF THE WASHINGTON ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS
50 Years of WASA
Celebrating five decades of transforming Washington’s schools. LEADERSHIP
BACK TO THE 1980s
CALL TO ACTION
Michelle Price reflects on the value of leadership.
Explore innovations, partnerships, and milestones from the 80s.
Dan Steele discusses legislative priorities for the 2022 session.
02
08
12
NEW BEGINNINGS Welcome, new school administrators and superintendents! We’re glad you’re here.
IN THIS ISSUE OF
HOTLINE
BACK TO THE FUTURE WASA will celebrate its 50th birthday at the 2022 Summer Conference in Spokane. It’s time to start your DeLorean—in our second anniversary issue of Hotline, we’re heading back to the 1980s! In this issue, we’ll uncover a veritable time capsule of stories and pictures from the WASA archives. We’ll also celebrate the courage, creativity, and committment of today’s school administrators statewide. Our central goals have remained consistent over all these years: service to our members and advocacy for Washington students. As 2021 draws to a close, we look forward to continuing to support you in the new year.
The Promises We Keep
Executive Director Joel Aune reflects on our members’ leadership and collective committment to courage and hope.
Superintendent of the Year
Thank you to Joel Aune, Dan Steele, Mike Nelson, Sheila Chard, Shari Parsons, Lisa Gehman, Andy Wolf, Bella Troniani, Michelle Price, Larry Nyland, Dennis Ray, and Milton Snyder 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.
01
Highline’s Susan Enfield is the 2022 Washington Superintendent of the Year. Congratulations, Dr. Enfield!
The Value of Leadership
02
ESD 171 Superintendent Michelle Price reflects on the value of leadership.
Fall 2021 Snapshots
02
Take a peek at what our members have been up to this fall!
50th Anniversary Sponsors
03
Our sponsors are true partners in all we do at WASA. Help us thank our eight amazing 50th anniversary sponsors!
The 1980s
04
Explore the next decade of WASA’s history in this issue of Hotline.
President Testimonials
08
Read the stories of WASA Presidents Dennis Ray, Milton Snyder, and Larry Nyland.
2021–22 Initiatives
10
Learn more about our system change initiatives for the 2021–22 year.
Our Vision of Professional Learning
11
Discover how WASA is reenvisioning professional learning.
WASA Employee Spotlight Cover collage: A peek into the 1980s from the WASA archives, featuring WASA leaders, members, and conference attendees.
01
11
Sheila Chard joined WASA 10 years ago, and she continues to support WASA’s efforts in diverse areas. Thank you, Sheila!
2022 Legislative Session
12
Assistant Executive Director Dan Steele outlines priorities for the 2022 session.
SIRS Corner
13
Read about the benefits of joining SIRS.
AASA Corner
13
Browse upcoming events and opportunities from AASA.
Contact Us
13
We’re here for you. Find the contact information you need!
Professional Learning Calendar
14
1 | HOTLINE
A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Promises We Keep The woods are lovely, dark and deep, But I have promises to keep, And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep. BY ROBERT FROST
for kids will be a source of pride and quiet satisfaction long after the masks come off. While it is not always clearly visible, you are making a difference for the students in your schools—more than you will probably ever know.
Earlier this month, I had the privilege of attending the AASA National Superintendent of the Year Gala in Washington DC, where leadership was celebrated as superintendents from across the country were honored for their extraordinary work in leading school districts. WASA was well represented with members Greg Baker (2020 Washington State SOY), Gustavo Balderas (2020 Oregon State SOY and National SOY), and Michelle Reid (2021 Washington State SOY and National SOY) all in attendance.
WASA stands ready to support you in running your school districts during this extraordinarily difficult time. We also stand ready to support your work to advance equity and student learning and to sustain, expand, or recapture momentum in this context. Our professional learning program design includes a variety of supports, resources, and opportunities to drive deep and sustainable system change in the interest of serving the students in your school districts. And, as always, member support from WASA is just an email or phone call away.
During the course of the evening, I couldn’t help but reflect upon the leadership excellence back home in Washington state.
For “The woods are lovely, dark, and deep, but [we] have promises to keep, and miles to go before [we] sleep.”
“Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening”
Thank you for keeping your promises and staying the course during these times of challenge and controversy. This state’s school districts and the 1.1 million students in them are fortunate to have people of your character, caliber, and commitment leading with courage, commitment, and hope—leading for kids, leading for excellence, and leading for equity.
WASA members, which include both superintendents and school district leaders serving in a variety of capacities, are leading some of the most progressive and innovative Respectfully, work in the entire country.
NOVEMBER REMINDERS 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.
Connect with Us Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for information on upcoming conferences and workshops, legislative news and updates, and school news.
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. Contact Sheila Chard if you have questions or need assistance.
Efforts to build and sustain systems that are anchored in equity and aspire to excellence for all students are underway here in Washington. The constant storm of unparalleled challenges thrust upon you due to the pandemic, along with the ugliness of today’s politics has, to varying degrees, distracted from the core focus of your work during the past 18 months. School district leaders have expended incredible amounts of time and energy managing these challenges and navigating the politics that are our reality. What has been accomplished, amidst this pressure-packed environment, should be a source of pride among all of you. Granted, it has been far from perfect. And yes, the muchanticipated return to normalcy (whatever THAT means) is still an unknown. But what you have done in leading school districts and fighting
HIGHLINE’S SUSAN ENFIELD NAMED
Superintendent of the Year Dr. Susan Enfield, superintendent of Highline Public Schools, has been named the 2022 Washington Superintendent of the Year. “District leadership is a team sport, and we have the very best team in Highline Public Schools,” Dr. Enfield said. “So while this award is for Superintendent of the Year, I really see it as celebrating the school district and community of the year, and for me,
that is Highline. It is a privilege to live, lead and serve here, and I am grateful for this honor.” Susan is now a candidate for National Superintendent of the Year. The 2022 Superintendent of the Year will be announced at the AASA National Conference on Education, scheduled for February 16–19 in Nashville. Read more in the 2022 Superintendent of the Year Press Release.
2 | HOTLINE
THE THREE PILLARS OF WASA
The Value of Leadership WASA’s mission is anchored in the three pillars of Leadership, Trust, and Advocacy. In this issue, Dr. Michelle Price shares her perspective on Leadership.
a culture of curiosity and openness, respect differences, and ensure that we seek to understand those who have perspectives and experiences vastly different than our own.
Does “If you always do what you have always done, you will get what you always got” sound familiar? Many people have laid claim to the quote, but what really matters is that if you want to change the end result, you need to change the way you do things. The WASA board and staff have committed to supporting and cultivating transformative, equity-driven leaders. In this 50th anniversary of WASA, the focus on developing competent, ethical, and visionary leaders is more critical than ever.
This work is complex, and we need to collaborate to grow our mindset, skillset, and tools to ensure our staff and our students have what they need. WASA is an instrumental partner in our growth toward equity and excellence. We must engage one another with honesty, open-mindedness, and vulnerability. Discomfort is a catalyst for growth. Collaborating with peers to sustain the conversation, especially when it gets uncomfortable, is the only way we will reach equity and excellence for every child.
If students are truly the heart of our work, then equity and excellence are what we strive for everywhere, every day. The cultures in our organizations need some intentional steps by you, the leaders. We need to lead and encourage open conversations, develop
As Ronald A. Heifetz and Martin Linsky wrote in Leadership on the Line: Staying Alive Through the Dangers of Leading, “No one learns only by staring in the mirror. We all learn—and are sometimes transformed—by encountering differences
that challenge our own experience and assumptions.” There is no question: We are in some extraordinary times in public education and as a country. We will be challenged and pressed to the limits of our ability, skills, and energy; however, I am confident that these challenges bring us new opportunities to re-invent ourselves as a system and work collectively to meet the needs of our most precious asset—our children. Let’s work together and stay connected through the WASA Leadership for Equity initiatives, after all, our common goal must be to reach far beyond what we have always done. Dr. Michelle Price currently serves as superintendent of ESD 171 and was previously superintendent of Moses Lake School District. Dr. Price served as WASA president in 2014.
CELEBRATIONS & CONFERENCES & COVID-19
Fall 2021 Snapshots Balance Statements, June Board Meeting Minutes, and September Comparative Membership Report) Action Items: • 2021–22 Budget • 2021–22 goals, action steps, and tasks Presentation/Discussion Items: • WASA Leaders Equity Training • WASA DEI Statement
Above: Board members discuss action items.
SEPTEMBER
BOARD MEETING At our most recent meeting, the Board: Approved the following: • Consent Calendar (June Income and
Information Items: • Member Services • SIRS • Hanover Articles • Update on Legislation and Finance Committee • School Funding Coalition • Legislative Advocacy • Professional Learning Update • Instructional Leadership Network • Equity Initiative with Dr. Tammy Campbell • Women in Leadership Series • Reports by WASA Liaisons
Above: Conference attendees walk with WASA in Chelan.
SEPTEMBER
FALL CONFERENCE & WALK WITH WASA WASA is grateful to the University of Washington Smart Center and Mental Health Technology Transfer Center for providing speakers Kelsey Schmitz, Eric Bruns, and Susan Barrett as well as sponsoring hats for our morning “Walk with WASA.” WASA returned to an in-person professional learning event with our Fall Conference in Lake Chelan. The conference focused on Social Emotional Learning and featured Yale University Professor Dr. Marc Brackett, author
3 | HOTLINE
of Permission to Feel, Houston Kraft, author of Deep Kindness, and Tom Hierck, author of Trauma Sensitive Instruction.
Thank you, Helene, for your continued work serving educators and students in Washington.
on Thursday, September 23. We appreciate our gracious sponsors: The Beresford Company, BLRB Architects, First Student, Piper Sandler & Co. McKinstry, and OAC Services for hosting this event.
Above: Colleagues reflect on Helene’s career.
SEPTEMBER
HONORING HELENE PAROFF AT FALL CONFERENCE Helene Paroff was recently honored during the WASA Fall Conference. Attendees were treated to a presentation of photos and stories from past co-workers and friends. Helene shared appreciation for her colleagues and career in addition to her perspective on a few of those stories. Since transitioning from WASA’s Assistant Executive Director of Professional Learning, Helene has served as WASA’s Inclusionary Practices Project Director. Helene is a gifted leader who has made a difference in the lives of educational administers, teachers, and students across the state.
Above: Brian looks back on his WASA presidency.
SEPTEMBER
CELEBRATING BRIAN TALBOTT’S YEAR AS PRESIDENT COVID-19 may have canceled the President Inauguration plans set for Brian Talbott in August 2020, but it did not cancel the celebration of his successful year as 2020–21 WASA President. Friends, family, and WASA Board members celebrated and thanked Brian for his year of service as WASA President at an event held at the Kalispel Golf and Country Club in Spokane
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!
Above: Attendees chat and catch up with colleagues.
NOVEMBER
SUPERINTENDENT COMPONENT MEETING The Fall Superintendent Component meeting was held in conjunction with the WSSDA Annual Conference in Bellevue on Friday, November 19. Vancouver Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Snell, the Superintendent Component Chair, led the meeting, which included the announcement of Susan Enfield as the 2022 Washington State Superintendent of the Year.
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.
4 | HOTLINE
1980s A NEW DECADE OF WASA BEGINS.
The decade of the 1980s continued the growth and expansion of WASA that began in the latter part of the 1970s. The following examples will help to illustrate the diversification and growth of WASA programs, services, and activities:
»
»
» » »
Project Leadership held its first training conference in 1981 with almost 100 in attendance. This flagship professional development program now enrolls almost 400 and has become a national model for training programs. The Negotiators Conference was expanded, a major legislative reception was included, and the Washington State School Directors’ Association was invited to be a co-sponsor.
»
By 1985, active membership had increased
BY THE NUMBERS
1980 995
1985 1,091
1989 1,238
Conferences designed for small schools, aspiring administrators, and special interest seminars were added to meet the changing needs of members.
»
Active membership in 1987 totaled 1,004, supported by a budget of $1 million. WASA, in cooperation with AWSP, was successful in a grant proposal to obtain the federally funded Leadership in Educational Administrator Development (LEAD) program. This program began in 1987, and has developed excellent professional growth opportunities for aspiring administrators.
»
In 1988, the WASA Board of Directors accepted a recommendation from a special
1980 $350K
OUR ANNUAL BUDGET
Also in 1988, WASA was successful in negotiating a grant from the Washington State Energy Office. This innovative program, TEAM Energy, provides energy awareness and other cost-effective training for school districts.
»
A new partnership with the Washington Association of School Personnel Administrators (WASPA) established the Employee Relations and Negotiations Network (ERNN) as an additional service for school administrators.
»
1989-90 set an all-time high of 1,128 active members and an operating budget of $1.3 million.
This article is a reproduction of historical documents written by Howard Coble before his passing in 2016.
What is WASA?
The leadership of the association has made as its highest priority a commitment to improve the professional skills of its members.
Some things that WASA is not:
Service to members: WASA has a 24-hour turnaround time on almost any problem that a member may encounter. There is a well developed resource bank of material and people to respond to any request.
Some important things that WASA is:
Requests for assistance range from problems with state auditors, questions on retirement, quasi-legal matters, personnel problems, salary compliance, etc.
It is not self serving. It is not a superintendent’s club. It is not a social group.
1989 $1.3M
»
A 1984 REFLECTION ON OUR VALUES WASA has approximately 1,000 active members plus 200 associate and retired members. It is a non-profit corporation governed by a Board of Directors that are elected both by regional area and at large.
OUR MEMBERSHIP 1985 $735K
The School Information and Research Service and the Washington In-Service Education Fund affiliated as independent organizations operated under a management contract by WASA.
»
In 1981, the Association of Washington School Principals was invited to join WASA for the first Joint Summer Conference. In 1984, WASA expanded its governmental relations efforts with the employment of a part-time person to head that department.
housing task force and purchased a new 6,000 square foot office building. The WASA home is a modern facility which should serve members for many years, and with a value of $475,000 represents an excellent investment.
to 940 and the annual budget reached $735,000.
WASA is the most active professional development organization for school administrators in the state. We have held the 1983 Conference on Excellence; conferences and seminars for special education, negotiators, small schools, administrative teams, and grant managers; Project Leadership, etc.
The office in Olympia provides a constant contact and working relationship with all state agencies. This article is a reproduction of a 1984 letter written by Howard Coble to Kent School District Superintendent George Daniel.
5 | HOTLINE
A STROLL DOWN MEMORY LANE
TEN YEARS OF LEADERSHIP This article is a reproduction of a speech given in 1991 by Howard Coble, WASA Executive Director from 1980 to 1991.
1980–81
In 1980, STAN HOSMAN took charge with a novice exec. The budget was approximately $350,000— and we had trouble paying our bills! Top goal: to improve the management of education within the state by providing professional growth opportunities to all administrators. (Spring 1981, Project Leadership)
1981–82
An apple-knocker from Cashmere, DICK JOHNSON, assumed the presidency. Project Leadership was taking off and the top goals were: to become more effective advocates for educational programs, and to provide all members with an opportunity to have an active role in WASA.
1982–83
This was the year of CURT HORNE. Membership was growing, the budget had reached $480,000. Goals were: to coalesce the various statewide professional education associations and organizations in order to become more effective advocates for important educational issues affecting students in Washington state, and to evaluate and alter WASA’s internal decision-making process in order that more members are presented with opportunities in the decision-making process.
1983–84
A white-haired Cougar named RAY SMITH became president in 1983. The 1982 goals became a blueprint for implementing change with increased emphasis on coalescing with other groups and bringing more members into the decision-making process.
1984–85
Next came the era of the “Gottfather,” JOHN GOTT (1984-85). The basic goals continued, and John created a Self-Assessment Task Force with president-elect Dennis Ray as chair. Surveyed members set the stage for the next step.
1985–86
In 1985, DENNIS RAY became president. The top goal was reorganization into stronger components. Dennis established a Reorganization Task Force with Milt Snyder as chair. He had the luxury of a $700,000 budget.
1986–87
MILT SNYDER became President in 1986. Mr. “Calm & Collected” immediately began phase three of reorganization by establishing the Reorganization Implementation Task Force with Maryann Johnson as chair. Finally, in October 1986, the Reorganization Plan was adopted by the Representative Assembly.
a state association with superintendents as members. Established goals were: to provide professional development activities to meet the needs of individual members and components groups and to provide members with adequate support by initiating planning processes/ activities to meet individual/component needs. We became the expert and an effective advocate for reorganization.
1988–89
KENT MATHESON took the helm in 1988. His was the first budget over one million and membership had increased to 1,200, a 25 percent increase over 1980. Goals were: to establish an active Political Action Committee, and to put into place a Strategic Plan to address future issues and their impact on our profession. (Education Vision Team)
1989–90
1989 was the year of the “flake.” LARRY NYLAND, a Kellogg Fellow, became president. Goals were changing: to take proactive leadership in ascertaining critical studentcentered issues and develop appropriate plans of action. Larry became an active member of the Education Vision Team and began the Strategic Planning process for WASA.
1987–88
In 1987 MARYANN JOHNSON became president and was the first woman to be president of
A DECADE OF CHANGE Larry Nyland, 1989–90 WASA President, reflects on a decade of change, leadership, and learning.
Governor Booth Garner’s leadership to form the Education Vision Team … funded by the Roundtable.
The 1983 report, A Nation at Risk: The Imperative for Educational Reform, created headwinds of change that swept the nation. During John Gott’s term WASA created a report and a conference around the theme of “Measuring Up,” a step forward toward improved student learning.
When I was elected WASA president in 1989, I ran on an “instructional leadership” platform—a novel concept at the time. It was an interesting time of transition with a focus on instructional leadership, state reform, and collaborative bargaining. Strategic planning, another new concept, became a significant tool in helping districts (and WASA) make those transitions.
The Business Roundtable, Washington’s 30 largest businesses, engaged heartily in supporting education and education funding. Kent Matheson (WASA President, 1988–89) was instrumental in bringing the entire educational family together under
When President George H.W. Bush called for an Educational Summit, Booth Gardner invited several of us to his office to give input on state reform. The Education Vision Team was
a central part of the planning that followed. GCERF, state education reform, HB 1209, the WASL assessments, and the Commission on Student Learning were the result … but those came at the start of another decade. Looking back, those were challenging times, but the headwinds of change were blowing hard in support of education with collaboration and support for a specific destination—improving student learning. Today, I applaud WASA and current colleagues as you steer a course through hurricane winds and against all odds to keep the crew and elements moving toward equity and excellence for all kids.
6 | HOTLINE
TIMELI ’80– ’81
’82– ’83 In 1980, WASA had 995 members and operated on a $350,000 annual budget. Stanford Hosman was our 1980–81 president. Our 1980 Summer Conference theme was “Complexity of Leadership—Styles for the 80s.” We began the decade with strong leadership goals:
» » » »
1980
In 1982, WASA had 1,040 members and operated on a $480,000 annual budget. Curtis Horne was our 1982–83 president. This year’s Joint Summer Conference, held in Yakima, was “Education—An Asset in Washington.” Our goals included:
»
Improve the management of education within the state. Double our membership. Provide job-alike as well as regional input into the directions of WASA. Establish WASA as the leader in preparing and speaking for educational legislation.
1981
’84– ’85
» »
Improve the image of the public schools with the general public. Improve board-administration/ superintendent relations. Coalesce with various professional associations and organizations to become more effective advocates for important educational issues affecting students in Washington.
1982
1983
In 1981, WASA had 965 members. Richard Johnson was our 1981–82 president. Shoreline Superintendent and WASA Past President Dr. William Stevenson became president of AASA. Project Leadership begins and becomes a national model for training programs. We partnered with AWSP for our Joint Summer Conference: “Together for the Challenge of the 80s.” Our goals for this year included:
» »
’81– ’82
In 1984, WASA had 1,233 mem John Gott was our 1984–85 pr Kris Van Gorkom joined the W Executive Team in 1984 as Ass Executive Director, Legislativ Information and Research. Ou Summer Conference was “Que Quality … Measuring Up.” This goals included:
» » » »
Develop a comprehensiv development plan. Develop a long-range WA plan for education. Influence public policy th political action. Examine our structure an decision-making process
1984
1985
In 1983, WASA had 1,143 members and a $480,000 annual budget. Ray Smith was our 1983–84 president. This year, our Joint Summer Conference theme was “Future Schools.” We built on our goals from the 1982–83 year, including:
»
Give all members the opportunity to take an active role. Become more aggressive in pressing for a greater voice in the legislative affairs affecting education.
»
’83– ’84
Evaluate and alter WASA’s Internal decision-making process in order that more members are presented with opportunities in the decisionmaking process. Expand the professional development opportunities available to educational administrators to improve the effectiveness of administrators.
’85– ’86
INE ’86– ’87 In 1986, WASA had 1,219 members. Milton Snyder was our 1986–87 president. John Fotheringham, former superintendent of the South Central School District, joined the WASA staff as Associate Executive Director. The Joint Summer Conference theme was “This One’s For You.” Our goals included:
ve staff
»
ASA
»
nd s.
1987
In 1985, WASA had 1,091 members and a $735,000 annual budget. Dennis Ray was our 1985–86 president. This year, our Joint Summer Conference theme was “Equity with Excellence.” Our goals included:
»
»
The 1980s were a landmark decade for WASA. Our membership steadily increased to represent a more diverse group of school administrators statewide. We strengthened partnerships with local, state, and national agencies and organizations. We increased our involvement in educational policymaking to better support our students and districts. Each year brought new challenges and triumphs for our organization. Explore our 1980s timeline to see how this decade transformed our organization!
In 1988, WASA had 1,233 members and a $1,060,124 budget. Kent Matheson was our 1988–89 president. We purchased a 6,400 square foot office building in Olympia that would serve members for many years. George Daniel was named 1988 superintendent of the year. This year’s Joint Summer Conference was “Let’s Celebrate: We’re Doing Great!!!” This year’s goals included:
Provide leadership in establishing an educational summit to enhance quality educational programs for all public school students in WA Continue to support and strengthen WASA legislative influence.
1986
»
OF WASA IN THE 1980s
’88– ’89
mbers. resident. WASA sistant ve ur Joint est for s year’s
hrough
7 | HOTLINE
» »
Put into place a strategic plan to address future issues and the impact on our profession. Build relationships with other educational associations/groups beyond the Leadership Team.
1988
1989
In 1987, WASA had 1,337 members and a $1 million budget. Maryann Johnson was our 1987–88 president and was the first woman to hold the office. WASA received a grant for the LEAD program. WASA initiates reorganization efforts to develop stronger component groups. This year’s Joint Summer Conference was “Kids Are Our Best Investment.” Our goals included:
Reorganize the association to develop stronger component groups. Expand and improve WASA’s communications regarding association programs, purposes, and issues. Expand WASA’s collaborative efforts with other individuals and groups.
» » »
’87– ’88
In 1989, WASA had 1,238 members and a $1.35 million budget. Larry Nyland was our 1989–90 president. Our Joint Summer Conference was “Challenge of the 90s: The Changing Role of School Administrators.” Dewayne Gower is named the 1989 Washington Superintendent of the Year.
Purchase and move into the new WASA building. Encourage and facilitate more active participation of members. Revise and expand WASA communications with members
’89– ’90
8 | HOTLINE
1985–86 PRESIDENT DENNIS RAY
WASA Memories Milton Snyder, left, and Dennis Ray, right, at the 1989 AWSP/WASA Joint Summer Conference.
I joined WASA in 1976, while a young assistant superintendent in the Eastmont School District. Dick Stimpson was Eastmont’s superintendent, a strong supporter of the organization and a WASA board member for several years. He strongly encouraged Maryann Johnson and me to join and become active in both WASA and WSASCD, which we did. Doyle Winter became WASA’s second Executive Director (following Murray Taylor) that same year. Doyle led the implementation Project Leadership, a key component of my, and many others I’m sure, development as a school system leader. Doyle provided outstanding
leadership to the young organization, before leaving to become superintendent of ESD 121 in 1980. Howard Coble, retired superintendent of the Olympia School District, then become WASA’s third Executive Director, and provided outstanding leadership to the association for the next 11 years. In 1984, while serving as superintendent of the Walla Walla Public Schools, I had the honor of being selected as President-elect of WASA. John Gott (the “Gott Father” to many of us!) was the association’s president. John asked me to chair a task force to conduct a self-assessment of our organization and make recommendations regarding its structure and operation. Our 20-member team, which included representatives from each WASA region, “job-alike” group, and standing committee, issued a series of recommendations, including the five “Component Group” structure still in play today. (This is great, as we wouldn’t want to be seen as a willy-nilly organization, changing its structure every 30 or 40 years!)
1986–87 PRESIDENT MILTON SNYDER
Funding in the 80s The fundamental issues that dominated my tour of duties as Superintendent of Schools in the Federal Way School District, as a WASA member, and President of WASA, were related to school funding—especially the promotion and passage of school district levies and bond issues. In the first few months of 1979, I joined WASA as a member to plan strategies of assembling staff teams; seek support from the teachers; and reach out to parents and community groups to spread levy funding promotion. The Federal Way Newspaper, Seattle Times, Tacoma News, and numerous community papers became essential communications sources for our levy planning routes. The following article by Mary E. Cronin, who wrote a special article for the Seattle Times in 1987, described some of the team's work during the 1980s. "Mary Cronin writes that while in Federal Way, Milton Snyder worked his way to national recognition with the raw energy that helped him end the school district's years of levy failure slump. The Federal Way Community had defeated some [23] school levies in the years before Snyder's
arrival in 1979. Snyder's first task was to rally the community behind the schools. The next levy passed, as has every levy since. In addition, the district approved a 30-million dollar bond issue to modernize some 24 schools in the 15,500 student district. Snyder credits the community and staff. The community and staff credit Snyder." “’It was a matter of building parents, teachers, and student associations and developing credibility in the instructional program so that everyone will rally and believe that we have a strong educational program,’ Snyder said.‘We had to work on that almost as a marketing strategy.’" The leadership of WASA at the time consisted of Executive Directors Howard Coble, John Fotheringham, and Doyle Winter—who were the vital leadership forces that assisted the entire team of Federal Way members, placing the district back on a positive financial basis. As a result of the support of WASA, I was elected President of WASA from 1986 to 1987. The WASA leadership team played a key role in my appointment as Deputy Executive Director of AASA in July of 1987.
Milt Snyder and Maryann Johnson followed through with implementation of the task force’s recommendations during their ensuing years leading the organization. In the 1980’s, WASA was amid transitioning from the ultimate “good old boys” organization of the past to a more progressive association, better representing the changing face of school and school district leadership. This wasn’t without its learning moments. In 1985, as president of the association, I told Howard Coble that I thought we needed to provide something other than hard liquor and beer at our traditional Fall conference reception. Howard assured me he would take care of it. When I arrived at the set-up, Howard had several cases of beer, six half-gallons of bourbon, four bottles of Scotch, and two bottles of cheap wine! I had to make a liquor-store run to somewhat balance the happy-hour offering! WASA has been an important part of my professional and personal life for the past 45 years. I am certainly very proud to be a member!
LEARNING WITH WASA IN THE 80s We significantly expanded our professional learning opportunities in the 1980s to reach more leaders across the state. In addition to our annual Joint Summer Conferences with AWSP, our offerings included: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Small Schools Conference Aspiring Administrators WASA/AWSP Administrative Team Workshop WASA Grants Managers Conference WASA Superintendents Conference WASA Leadership Conference WASA New Superintendents Workshop Small Schools Drive-In Conference WASA Fall Conference Special Education Alike Conference Job Alike Conferences WASA Excellence Conference WASA Self Study Workshop WASA First Class Superintendents Conference WASA/WSSDA School Budget Awareness Workshop WASA/WSSDA School Construction Conference Special Education Mentor Program School Budget Awareness Workshop Administrative Team Workshop Negotiators Legislative Conference
9 | HOTLINE
1989–90 PRESIDENT LARRY NYLAND
WASA, 1985 to 1993 1989 WASA Leadership Conference WASA Presidentelect Larry Nyland outlines his plans for a WASA Strategic planning session.
I was a young whipper-snapper superintendent in Pasco and enthralled by effective schools and the promise of reaching each student. Dennis Ray, superintendent in Walla Walla, partnered with us in Pasco to bring in Bob Marzano during tough economic times. I asked John Gott about doing a project to promote student learning and he said sure—a great example of empowering youth! A group of us pulled together a booklet called “Measuring Up” as a guide to learning improvement. That year, the Business Roundtable issued a report calling for measurable goals, curriculum, student testing, and a variety of other education reforms. Dennis Ray, the following president, assigned me to the Legislative committee. I got to watch up close the skill of Howard Coble and others in lobbying our legislators. Milt Snyder followed Dennis as President. The Business Roundtable issued another report based on findings from ten effective districts in Washington. School reform was gaining momentum. When the nominating committee asked me to run for WASA President, I planned slowly— and lost. By the time I got started, Maryann Johnson was miles out front. Maryann did a great job, promoting among other things, the Washington State Leadership Academy. Kent Matheson, WASA President in 1988–89, was instrumental in bringing together a coalition to work on school reform. Matt figured
80s SNAPSHOTS
it could succeed only if it did NOT come from a vested interest. The governor agreed to call the meeting and the funding was supplied by the Business Roundtable. The Education Vision Team brought together 13 entities including the Business Roundtable: Labor and Management and the “Four Corners” of state government. Kent asked me to represent WASA on the Education Vision Team. I served on the EVT for a half-dozen years—as vice president for a portion of that time. Unfortunately, at some point we declared victory, disbanded, and went back to our more typical competitiveness. In those days, Frank Shrontz, Boeing CEO, was one of the staunchest advocates for public education, personally going to the legislature to advocate for education funding. When I ran again for WASA president I started early and ran on an “instructional leadership” platform. Hard to believe now, but that was a novel concept at the time. I was elected during interesting times of transition. As I recall there was a confluence of several key issues including a push for: state reform and consequently district reform; collaborative bargaining, and strategic planning. John Fotheringham helped support districts with strategic planning workshops. That was an interesting year. Booth Gardner invited a group of us to Olympia to ask what we thought should be done to improve education in Washington. He had been invited to an educational summit by President George H. W. Bush. I flew home to Pasco realizing how scary it was to be asked what we should do to make schools better. Far easier to be the naysayer. The Roundtable funded the Education Renewal Institute and called for early childhood education, a focus on student learning, school centered renewal, and enriched professionalism. WEA, under Terry Bergeson’s leadership, issued a report calling for building a “learning community.”
Booth Gardner created the Governor’s Commission on Education Reform and Finance (GCERF). A White Paper by two Stanford Professors (O’Day and Smith) circulated in the Legislature. John Betrozoff, Republican legislator teamed up with Booth Gardner, Democrat, to circulate All Kids Can Learn legislation. A group of us met regularly for brown bag lunches in the governor’s office to plan strategy. Eventually, the reform legislation (HB 1209) passed with an overwhelming bipartisan super-majority. Denny Heck, Stephen Nielsen, Bob Butts, and Susan Patrick were part of that group. Several pieces of legislation followed, including: EALRs–Essential Academic Learning Requirements, WASL–Washington Assessment of Student Learning, CISL–Center for Improvement of Student Learning, and then Commission on Student Learning, which was empowered to make reform happen.
• • • •
Stephen Nielsen served as the first director of the Commission on Student Learning, charged with creating a new entity from the ground-up. I was asked to serve as interim director. Terry Bergeson followed. We launched input sessions statewide around “All Kids Can Learn.” It was an exciting time to: Bring together 600 educators to help draft EALRs. Research reform in Massachusetts and Kentucky. Find testing companies that could even think about qualitative testing.
• • •
Schools for the 21st Century funded creativity grants in Washington. Washington Association of Better Schools was created. National grants were provided for the formation of new assessments. But again, that spills over into another decade.
10 | HOTLINE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers
President: Aaron Leavell, Bremerton President-elect: Michelle Whitney, Pasco Past president: Brian Talbott, Nine Mile Falls Secretary: Jennifer Bethman, Bethel Treasurer: Linda McKay, NCESD 171
Regions 101 105 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 123 171
Jake Dingman, Oakesdale Kevin McKay, Sunnyside 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 John Boyd, Quincy
Components
BPAC: Sarah Thorton, 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 Region 101 Travis Hanson, Deer Park Region 105 Jinger Haberer, Ellensburg Region 108 Mary Sewright, Mount Baker Region 109 Dana Geaslen, Edmonds Region 110 Ron Thiele, Issaquah Region 111 Michael Farmer, Dieringer Region 112 Mary Beth Tack, Kelso Region 113 Brian Wharton, Yelm Region 114 Marty Brewer, Port Angeles Region 123 Michelle Whitney, Pasco Region 171 John Boyd, Quincy
New WASA Members More than 40 new members have joined us since the start of the school year. 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: Valerie Anderson, North Kitsap Amy Archuleta, Central Kitsap Wade Barringer, Kent Christine Bell, Lake Washington Charisse Berner, Bellingham Beth Bourque, North Kitsap Rachelle Butz, Federal Way Cynthia Cantwell, Bremerton Stephanie Clark, Lake Washington Erin Curtin, Vancouver Milt Dennison, Mount Pleasant Shea Eakes, Federal Way Marc Elliott, Olympia Loren Finley, Republic Anthony Frascone, Federal Way
Hannah Gbenro, Olympia Marcel Hauser, Mukilteo Christopher Hennings, Lake Washington Luke LeCount, Vancouver Kristie Lindholm, Vancouver Jennifer Markaryan, North Kitsap Paul Marquardt, Bethel Brian Mathieson, Vancouver Ashley Murphy, Federal Way Shawn Myers, Toppenish Gina Naccarato-Keele, Spokane Sonia Nicholson, Federal Way Claire Olson, Nine Mile Falls Dennis Purcell, Federal Way Jason Rhoads, North Kitsap Kevin Rohrich, Mukilteo Natalee Saber, Federal Way Daniel Sellers, Central Kitsap Tara Slinn, Mukilteo Kalle Spear, Everett Aaron Tomyn, Sumner-Bonney Lake Israel Vela, Kent Shana Watkins, Federal Way Anali Weatherhead, Federal Way Julian Williams, Vancouver Monica Zuber, Bremerton
2021–22
Initiatives During the 2021–22 school year, WASA has five initiatives. These initiatives, unlike conferences, workshops, or webinars, gather individuals or teams from districts to embrace systems learning and thinking over a period of one to four years. Each initiative has a common set of values and beliefs for building a culture within school systems that focus on a foundation of equity in reaching each student. This common foundation gives WASA members and district teams assurance that no matter what initiative “door” you go through to advance the work of student learning, the values and beliefs are consistent.
Inclusionary Practices Project
The legislature has renewed this project for years three and four with a purpose of providing school district teams an opportunity to develop a mission and vision for supporting school district staff across the system in meeting the needs of each student. This project is led by Helene Paroff.
Washington State Leadership Academy
The pandemic has supported the opportunity for WSLA to reinvent their delivery model in support teams across the state in the development of leading
strategic work in their school districts. This academy is led by Sharon Bower.
WASA Professional Learning Communities at Work
WASA PLC at Work is an opportunity for districts to come together for three years and develop, with the support of Solution Tree staff, a system of standards and assessments for staff to use in meeting the learning needs of each student. This project is led by Janel Keating and Solution Tree staff.
Instructional Leadership Network
This is a two-year project (hopefully with an extension) specifically designed to work with leaders who oversee teaching and learning in their districts. This network is led by Chris Beals.
Equity Initiative
This initiative has three prongs: Foundational Workshops, District Cohort Teams (fourpart series), and an “implementation” book study (Caste). This initiative is led by Dr. Tammy Campbell. For more information about any of the initiatives, visit our WASA website or contact Assistant Executive Director Mike Nelson.
11 | HOTLINE
OUR VISION OF PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
The Professional Learning Star Each diamond shines brightly, but when combined, they create a superstar as a way to symbolize WASA as the premier organization for statewide professional learning.
learning experiences to learning initiatives that develop over time as a way to dive deep into the work of supporting the growth of each student.
WASA’s overall charge, as an organization for educational administrators, is to keep leadership development as a focus. The end goal of this leadership development, however, will always be to support equitable earning experiences for each student.
Interested in continuing your professional growth with professional learning from WASA? Flip to the last page of Hotline to check out upcoming professional learning opportunities or explore the Conference and Workshop Calendar on our website.
In addition to the strong WASA history of offering wonderful conferences and workshops which is now one of five diamonds, you will see that the professional learning vision has broadened its scope of work into other key areas. WASA recently released a new way of outlining the work of professional learning. This visual to represent the work contains five diamonds brought together in a united star.
The connected diamonds of the star also represent a continuum of support for WASA members from “in the moment or just in time”
FEATURING SHEILA CHARD
WASA Employee Spotlight level of responsibilities and consistently hits the mark. She is the ultimate team player and is always the first to volunteer to assist a colleague or pitch in on a project. Sheila is a pleasure to work with and I know I’d be lost without her.”
What does your job entail at WASA? I provide assistance and support to Dan Steele, Andy Wolf, and the other Execs as needed. I support several WASA committees, assist with various WASA publications, miscellaneous tasks, and fill in wherever I can.
What do you like most about your job?
In this issue, we’re proud to spotlight Sheila Chard, Administrative Assistant for Governmental Relations and Member Services. Sheila joined WASA in 2011. Dan Steele, Assistant Executive Director of Government Relations, shares: “It is great to have Sheila at WASA. Over the years, she has steadily expanded her
The variety. I like that I get to do different tasks, and, depending on the time of year, there are different priorities and projects that keep me busy. I enjoy learning and new challenges.
How has WASA changed since you were hired? Being remote has been a huge change. I’ve worked for three different Executive Directors, each with a different style. WASA members seem to be more engaged nowadays.
What were you doing before you were hired at WASA? I worked at WSSDA from 2005–2011,
supporting Dan before he left for WASA.
What is your favorite memory at WASA? The day Dan called and asked me to come to WASA. I was so excited, I started to cry.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working? I love working in my yard, sewing, making jewelry, and being with my family.
Best vacation ever? We have been on three different Caribbean cruises. I love the sunshine, the islands, the people, and observing and experiencing a different kind of culture and lifestyle.
Where’s your favorite place in the world? My favorite place is my home. It is my comfort and harmony place. I love it there.
Do you have story about a former staff member that WASA members might enjoy? Mack Armstrong was very kind and treated me with care and respect. He was always very complimentary and appreciative of my efforts. Mack was a great guy.
12 | HOTLINE
2022 LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Call to Action! The 2022 Legislative Session is still two months away; however, WASA continues to lay the groundwork for a successful session. Legislators are refining their legislative priorities for the coming session and school administrators from across the state have been engaging with their legislators in an effort to have an early impact. Meeting with legislators when the Legislature is not in session is the most effective way to begin or strengthen your relationships with them. If you have not yet engaged with legislators, we strongly encourage you to take the opportunity to contact them now (and often) to establish trust and credibility so they will come to you for information and advice. As you meet with your legislators, we encourage you to use WASA’s 2022 Legislative Platform to join with your colleagues across the state to advocate with one voice on critical education funding and policy issues. As you engage with your local legislators in support of WASA’s Platform, we encourage you to also support the efforts of the School Funding Coalition (SFC), as described in the recently released SFC 2022 Priority document. WASA continues to be an active partner in the School Funding Coalition, composed of seven of the state’s education associations representing almost 8,000 school district leaders from our state’s 295 school districts. The Coalition was convened to assist our collective members to speak with one voice on common funding priorities that each of our associations will support on behalf of the 1.1 million students who attend our schools. Aligning with one of WASA’s major priorities, the SFC will be urging
the Legislature to jump-start the process to phase-in updated staffing allocations in the Prototypical School Funding Model, ensuring more realistic state-funded staffing levels in our schools. The upcoming 2022 Session is the second year of the 67th Biennial Legislature, known as the “short” session, limited to 60 days. While legislators generally are reticent to advance many budget proposals in a short session, state revenues are estimated to be substantially higher than was expected when the 2021–23 budget was adopted this spring (almost $7.0 billion from March through September). With the fear of a budget shortfall off the table and additional unexpected revenues available, perhaps some of K–12 education’s ongoing needs can be addressed— including the start of the phase-in process of updated staffing allocations. We will have no opportunity for success, however, if school administrators are not fully engaged in the Legislative arena. To support your advocacy efforts, WASA will provide tools and resources to assist you in engaging with legislators. This includes WASA’s 2022 Legislative Platform and the School Funding Coalition’s 2022 Priority document, as noted above. Additionally, after the session begins, WASA’s weekly legislative newsletter, This Week in Olympia (TWIO), will resume publication, and we will resume WASA’s weekly legislative podcast. Both resources provide up-to-date information on the key issues school administrators are following. TWIO provides in-depth details,
Book Corner with Mike Nelson One of the amazing joys of leading professional learning for WASA is reading great books in order to explore having the author speak with all of you! One most recent book is I’m Possible by Richard Antoine White. Quite simply, it’s the story of his life and the story of a tuba but, as you can imagine, the book is filled with much more.
Richard’s journey is one that is both inspirational and aspirational. Responding to a time he was caught in a blizzard, Richard responded, “I think the universe blessed me with imagination. I had to imagine a full stomach. I had to imagine a warm blanket. I am grateful …” To this day, imagination is one of his favorite words.
while the podcast is a short, easily digested, high-level update. Last session, we stressed the need for all WASA members—not just superintendents, but ALL administrators—to participate in the legislative process. In the upcoming short session, it will be even more important for all school administrators to step up. We understand some of you may not be comfortable in the legislative arena; however, advocacy does not have to be hard, time-consuming, or intimidating. To assist you in your advocacy role, we urge you to attend WASA’s upcoming “Finding Your Voice” webinar. You will receive tips, tools, and additional resources to help you to engage with the Legislature and effectively advocate for your schools, your students, and your staff. The one-hour webinar is December 10 at 12 p.m.; registration is now open (registration is complementary; however, you must register to attend). Whether you are an advocacy novice or are experienced in the process, all WASA members are invited and strongly encouraged to attend. Finally, we encourage you to join with your colleagues to participate in the annual WASA/ WSSDA/WASBO Legislative Conference, scheduled for January 30, 2022. Because it appears the Legislature will again convene in a “remote” mode, the Legislative Conference will again be held “virtually.” As we did last year, we are also currently planning on a virtual “Week on the Hill” following the Conference. Registration for the Conference will open November 17; additional details regarding the Week on the Hill will be provided at a later date.
Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with Richard. He is a captivating individual and I found myself hanging on each and every word of his story. It is with great joy that I share that Richard will be our closing speaker at this year’s WASA/AWSP Summer Conference in June! Registration for the WASA/AWSP Summer Conference will launch on January 24, 2022. To learn more about Richard, check out this short interview with Trevor Noah.
13 | HOTLINE
THE AASA CORNER
2022 Conference Speakers Join AASA, the School Superintendents Association, at the National Conference on Education February 17–19 in Nashville, Tennessee. At this year’s conference, you’ll hear from speakers including: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 17
Tim Shriver, Chairman, Special Olympics International, Washington DC Mr. Shriver will be discussing a powerful new program promoting school-based social inclusion and unified leadership among our educators and students. He will also share exciting and insightful stories of inspiration and change from both film and his work with the Special Olympics.
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)
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18
Leslie T. Fenwick, Dean Emeritus and Professor, Howard University, Washington, DC Dr. Fenwick will share tools that encourage character leadership and ethical education for students in today’s universal and dynamic climate. Dr. Fenwick has vast expertise in educational equity and was a contributor to a best-selling book, The Last Word: Controversy and Commentary in American Education.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 19
Mark A. Edwards, Leadership Today and former superintendent Mr. Edwards will provide creative thinking and productive learning tools that will guide you to
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 Jamie Chylinski, Professional Learning Coordinator jchylinski@wasa-oly.org
Lisa Gehman, Professional Learning/ Membership Assistant lgehman@wasa-oly.org
Joel Aune, Executive Director | jaune@wasa-oly.org
ACCOUNTING 360.489.3643 / 360.352.6873 (FAX)
Shari Parsons, Executive Assistant | sparsons@wasa-oly.org
Eve Johnson, Business/Infrastructure Manager
Bella Troniani, Communications/Production Support
ejohnson@wasa-oly.org
MEMBER SUPPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS 360.489.3642
360.489.3646
Dan Steele, Assistant Executive Director | dsteele@wasa-oly.org
Andy Wolf, Assistant Executive Director | awolf@wasa-oly.org
Sheila Chard, Administrative Assistant | schard@wasa-oly.org
infuse partnerships to create a more engaging and successful classroom for educators and students. He is known for dedicating himself to teamwork, pushing bold initiatives in the classroom, and striving for excellence and leadership in all projects, as well as being named the 2013 National Superintendent of the Year®. Michael Fullan, Professor Emeritus and former Dean of Education, OISE/University of Toronto Mr. Fullan will discuss educational reform to achieve the moral purpose of all children and keys for maximizing that impact. He has won several educational awards, reflecting his work in creating a great impact in children’s learning.
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
DECEMBER December 2–3
PLC at Work Implementation Workshop
December 6
Winter Conference
December 7
Equity Initiative Caste Book Study Session 2 of 7
December 8
Aspiring Superintendents Academy Session 4 of 12
December 9
WASA/OSPI Special Education Conference Session 5 of 5
December 9
Instructional Leadership Network Regional Leaders Meeting
December 10
JANUARY January 4
Inclusionary Practices Project Team Facilitators’ Academy Session 5 of 8
January 4
Equity Initiative Caste Book Study Session 3 of 7
January 5
Inclusionary Practices Project District Team Convening
January 6
Special Education Academy Session 1 of 6
January 6
Instructional Leadership Network “Lunch with WASA”
January 7
Women in Leadership Virtual Conference
Inclusionary Practices Project Webinar Equity and UDL (Celebrate the Holidays More Equitably)
January 10
December 13
WASA Board Equity Learning Lab Session 2 of 3
Mentor and Early Career Superintendents Academies Session 3 of 7
December 13
PLC at Work Project District Leadership Workshop
December 14
Inclusionary Practices Project Team Facilitators’ Academy Session 4 of 8
December 14
Aspiring Central Office Leadership Academy Session 3 of 8
December 15
Inclusionary Practices Project District Team Facilitator Meeting 4 of 9
December 16
Instructional Leadership Network Statewide Workshop
PLC at Work Project District Leadership Workshop
January 11
January 12
PLC at Work Project School Board Session
January 12
Inclusionary Practices Project District Team Facilitator Meeting 5 of 9
January 13
Instructional Leadership Network Statewide Workshop
January 21
Inclusionary Practices Project Webinar: Family and Community Engagement
January 21
Mentor and Early Career Superintendents Academies Session 4 of 7
January 26
Aspiring Superintendents Academy Session 5 of 12
January 27
Aspiring Central Office Leadership Academy Session 4 of 8
January 27
Instructional Leadership Network “Lunch with WASA”
January 30 WASA/WSSDA/WASBO Legislative Conference
FEBRUARY February 1
Equity Initiative Caste Book Study Session 4 of 7
February 2
Instructional Leadership Network Statewide Workshop
February 3
Special Education Academy Session 2 of 6
February 4
Women in Leadership Virtual Session
February 8
Equity Initiative Cohort Session 2 of 4
February 9
Aspiring Superintendents Academy Session 6 of 12
February 14
Instructional Leadership Network “Lunch with WASA”
February 15
Inclusionary Practices Team Facilitators’ Academy Session 6 of 8
February 17
Inclusionary Practices Team Facilitators’ Academy Session 6 of 8
February 18
Aspiring Central Office Leadership Academy Session 5 of 8
February 28
Mentor and Early Career Superintendents Academies Session 5 of 7
Professional Learning Opportunities Continue your professional learning and growth with conferences, academies, and workshops from WASA Professional Learning. Find more at wasa-oly.org.