Volume 13-3 | January 31, 2018
ILASCD News
Groundhog Day - Feb 2
Digital Learning Day (Feb 22) is just UNDER a month away

CHECK OUT IL ASCD's website, www.illinoisascd .org
Cold Weather Guidelines
Watching the weather is part of a school’s job. Planning for playtime, field trips, or weather safety
is part of the daily routine. The changes in weather require you to monitor the health
and safety of children. What clothing, beverages, and protections are appropriate? Find out Illinois State Board of Education weather guidelines here.

ILASCD Partners with TeachIllinois
TeachIllinois provides relevant, concise, 100% online professional development to educators throughout Illinois. Just this month we have added Sketchnoting, Lab Safety, Live Shooter Training for Bus Drivers, and a 13-video library and discussion forum on SB 1947. You've heard what evidence-based funding is from various sources recently. TeachIllinois has partnered with education attorney Merry Rhoades of Tueth Keeney to take the next step and provide practical solutions and specific items to consider when transitioning your District. Watch her 7 videos on Evidence-Based Funding here . Then, join TeachIllinois to participate in the free discussion forum and to have access to the live roundtable with several educational attorneys discussing your questions.

Send us your good news! Taking a new position? Retiring? Won an award? Please let us know! Glenna Adams, EdBriefs Editor  gladams@wideopenwest.com  
Renee Phillips, Administrative Assistant,  reneephillips@mac.com , phone: 309-820-9100. 
Ryan Nevius, Assistant Director,  rcneviu@me.com , phone:  618-203-3993 .
Katie McKay-Phillips, Media Specialist,  kathrynmckay20@gmail.com
Archived issues of ILASCD Education Briefs are available in our Members Only section on the ILASCD website.  Please log in to your account to view them. Not a member? Join today
ASCD News
And the Educators' Choice Content Award Goes To … The SmartBrief Education team each year celebrates educator voice with the annual Educator's Choice Content Award. Meet this year's winners, Kerry Gallagher and Brian Sztabnik. Read more.
Here's a Newsletter for You, The Higher Education Leader
 
Cambridge has been working with members of ASCD for nearly 25 years providing data-informed lesson plans and supplemental materials to increase ACT/ASPIRE/PSAT/WorkKeys/GED test scores while mastering skills aligned with College Readiness and common core standards.
Schools select after-school, semester-long or alongside-the-curriculum models using their own teachers or ours. Professional development, Parent Admission and Student Motivation workshops assist with systemic efforts for greater student achievement.
Contact Mary Parks at 800-444-4373 ext. 226, 847-204-0502 (C), or MParks@CambridgeEd.com for additional information.
Advocacy & Governance
In addition to this information from ASCD, we are running a series on the Whole Child within our Illinois ASCD Journal. To read the latest edition of our Journal,  visit our website 
 Illinois Education News
General Primary Election, Tuesday, March 20, 2018 - VOTE! Check with your County to verify your voter registration, register to vote, or locate your polling place.
State of the State Speech Rauner is scheduled to present his annual "State of the State" speech to a joint session of the House and Senate at noon TODAY.  
The beginning of the spring legislative session is the annual restart of the lawmaking process. Lawmakers in both chambers are filing new bills, which will continue up until the Feb. 16 deadline. Bills will then be assigned to committees for hearings before advancing to the floor in either chamber.
Illinois Law in 2018: http://abc7.ws/2l15ThA
Full session calendars are available here:  Illinois Senate, Illinois House of Representatives
 ISBE News

Submit Early Childhood Education Block Grant Proposals for FY19. The Illinois State Board of Education is re-competing the entire Early Childhood Block Grant for FY19, which means everyone must re-apply, even if you are planning to only continue current services. This also offers the chance to change up your ECE block grant.

If interested in applying for these funds, the first step is to submit a Notice of Intent. Prevention Initiative program proposals are due no later than 4 p.m. February 9 , 2018.
IL Education Board to Ask State for Funding Increase The Illinois State Board of Education has voted to ask state lawmakers for over $7.9 billion in extra funding for the next fiscal year, nearly doubling current spending to more than $15.6 billion.
Illinois Bicentennial Celebration 1818 - 2018
ISBE is proud to be a partner in the Illinois Bicentennial Celebration. The year-long series of programs and events commenced on December 3, 2017 and will culminate with Illinois’ 200th birthday on December 3, 2018. We are very excited to offer the Illinois Chronicles as a foundational resource to teach and learn about Illinois history. The Illinois Chronicles is a unique historical timeline package that will offer facts and suggested ideas for presentation of Illinois history in a chronological order. This resource will be provided to every school in the state in spring of 2018.
ISBE ESSA webpage -  https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Home.aspx

Bill Text/Status: Illinois General Assembly  www.ilga.gov .  Click on Dashboard. 
Federal Education News
DeVos' Speech Focuses on Past Reform, Common Core Education-reform efforts during the Bush and Obama administrations did little -- if anything -- that "fundamentally changed the system," US Education Secretary Betsy DeVos said during a recent speech. She addressed issues, including the Common Core State Standards, which she said "is dead" at the Education Department.
To reach  Senator Tammy Duckworth by email at  https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/
To reach  Senator Dick Durbin by email at  http://www.durbin.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases
ASCD Educator Advocates:  www.educatoradvocates.org  
ASCD Legislative Agenda:  www.ascd.org/legislativeagenda  
ASCD Policy Points:  www.ascd.org/publicpolicy 
ILASCD's Video Workshops are perfect for use in Department meetings, Faculty meetings, PLC teams, college classes, parent meetings, Board of Education meetings, grade-level meetings, individual PD.
Not webinars, but live-capture presentations defining and exploring how testing in standards-based learning environments leads to successful growth model attainment. Each video begins with definitions of the tests in the area being covered. Detailed information about their impact on the learning in classrooms will be provided. Each video allows break times within the 30-45 minute time period for discussion by the viewing group under the leadership of the local host (principal, professor, department chair, PLC leader, etc.). Each module is $69. More Information
Upcoming Conferences & Workshops
Know Your IEIN? Professional Development Requirement- IEIN Number • When registering and signing attendance for future professional development opportunities provided by school districts, ROE, professional association, or other approved ISBE Provider, you will be required to provide your IEIN which is your Illinois Educator Information Number. • Your personal IEIN can be found on the ELIS site, which is the ISBE site for licensure renewal and PD hour entry. • Please know your IEIN when registering and attending. This requirement protects YOU when ISBE decides to audit your attendance at events.
IL ASCD is an ISBE Approved Provider     IL ASCD is a CPS Approved Provider #24595 

Five mini-sessions from the perspective of both administrator and teacher filled with engaging, hands-on activities will leave you with plenty of ideas to take back to the classroom.Expected Outcomes & Take Aways
Whether you are in a 1:1 school, want to squeeze everything you can out of the one device in your classroom, or your school is encouraging you to use more digital tools, you’ll learn from Amplify. You’ll discover how to gradually release responsibility to empower students as you—and your students—make the most of any technology.
Myron will provide concrete steps and templates as to how he built a student-monitored retesting system based on student-friendly learning outcomes that support a competency-minded environment. He will demonstrate how clear project learning targets and alternative assessment routines can not only make assessments both effective and efficient, but also help build positive relationships with some of the most unlikely students. 
Curriculum Leadership Development Network Feb 26, Mar 19, Apr 30 , in Oak Lawn Register for CLDN one day at a time! CLDN is a program designed to provide in-depth learning and networking opportunities that develop curriculum leadership.
In this session, Donna will share her experiences working in a high property school district to address the needs of the students most at risk for reading difficulties. Learn to diagnose and proactively remediate the issues that challenge these students.
A night of edu-tainment - 1/3 show, 1/3 session, 1/3 workshop 100% fun! We will discuss ways to build value in ourselves and in our students (the 4 E’s), the 7 behavior challenges to a successful classroom and the Super Power of Yet. 
Grades 4 – 8 Math Games with John Felling March 14 - Oak Lawn Are you looking for engaging and effective ways to help your 4th to 8th grade students gain confidence and competence with key math concepts? Come prepared to play math games that incorporate the use of cards, dice, multi-sided dice, number lines, fraction manipulatives, and other easily found math manipulatives.
Understanding by Design: Tools and Templates for Designers, featuring Jay McTighe April 3-4, 2018, Naperville Educators at all levels interested in enhancing their design of curriculum, assessment and instruction focused on enhancing student understanding.
Attendees will leave with a firm understanding of quality assessments, the role of those assessments in the evaluative process and strategies for improving both within their home districts.
Using a teacher’s vantage point and the
power of video in the classroom, we’ll explore just how to help teachers fight isolation and cultivate progress.
Observing and evaluating the new standards requires a new set of eyes in order to effectively observe and evaluate the paradigm shift that occurs in today’s classroom. Administrators will explore the conceptual shifts expected by the Common Core, NGSS, and C3 standards.
The early innovators are out innovating, but what about the many who hope to follow on their own adventure?
Prepare your students for the globalized world! Researcher and Professor Yong Zhao unlocks the secrets to cultivating independent thinkers who are willing and able to use their learning differently to create jobs and contribute positively to the globalized society. 
Come join over 120 National and Local Presenters such as Kim Adsit, Deanna Jump, Shari Sloane, Deedee Wills, Kathy Griffin, Kurt Schwengel, Kim Jordano, Shawn Brown and many more…
Other Conferences of Note
ESSA Conference
On February 12-14, 2018, this annual statewide conference is being hosted by The Center: Resources for Teaching and Learning in partnership with the Illinois State Board of Education in Chicago. The 2018 conference theme is “Focus on the Learner.” You can find out more about the ESSA Conference here .
ASCD Empower18 , a conference designed by educators, for educators, provides the expertise and formats you need to develop sustainable and practical plans of action that solve problems of practice. From learning sessions to interactive panel discussions, discover learning opportunities suited to your individual style and content supporting the whole child. Hear General Session speakers who will shift your perspective with out-of-the-box thinking and breakthrough solutions sure to deliver a "wow" moment (or two)! Learn what's new in education from our all-star line-up of Special Session speakers .
Explore practical solutions at Concurrent Learning Sessions , where experienced practitioners will share case studies, best practices, and actionable ideas in lively, interactive sessions.
 Join us March 24-26, 2018, in Boston, Mass.
The early-bird registration rate for ASCD Empower18: The Conference for Every Educator has been extended through February 15. Don't miss this opportunity to register at the lowest available rate.
From the Field
Chicago Public Schools Board Approves New CEO The Chicago Tribune reports that the Chicago Board of Education voted 5-0 to approve the appointment of CEO Janice Jackson “following a string of supportive testimony from an organized group of aldermen, pastors and principals at the district’s monthly school board meeting.” Jackson “has already begun assembling her team and backed board members in a separate 5-0 vote to modify CPS ethics rules so former board member Arnaldo Rivera can claim a top district job.”
I L School Seeks to Develop Its Own Teachers One Quincy, IL high school has partnered with a local college to offer education classes to students interested in becoming teachers.
Over 8,000 Educators Estimated To Be Protected By DACA According to Politico , “experts estimate that roughly 8,800 educators working in U.S. classrooms, lecture halls and libraries are undocumented immigrants protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.” The fate of these educators is now uncertain as Congress and the White House negotiate the future of the program.
Curriculum
Opportunities & Grants/Awards
Vacancy:  Director of Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment, Oak Park School District 97,
Oak Park, Illinois
Description: Oak Park School District 97, a diverse and high performing PreK-8 school district located in the near western suburbs of Chicago, consisting of eight elementary and two middle schools with a total enrollment of 6,146 students, has engaged BWP and Associates to assist in the search to fill a critical administrative position. Knowledge of and demonstrated ability in all facets of curriculum, instruction and assessment as well as professional development, educational technology, fine arts, gifted content, IB, ELL and summer programs is highly desired.
Persons with proven ability to communicate effectively with a variety of stakeholder groups and successfully engage in continuous program improvement are encouraged to apply. The Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment reports directly to the District 97 Chief Academic Officer. Applicants must have or be eligible to obtain Illinois Type 75 General Administrative certification. Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years experience in the supervision of instructional staff and a minimum of five years of broad-based curriculum work.
The compensation and benefits package for this position will be competitive for similar type positions in the metropolitan Chicago area.
Application Procedure: Interested candidates need to complete the online application process at www.bwpassociates.com by February 12, 2018. Application materials should include the following: a completed online Applicant Data Form; letter of interest; resume; three letters of reference with one from a current supervisor; copies of transcripts, and proof of Type 75 certification. The candidate selected will begin the position July 1, 2018. Application materials will be treated confidentially.
Assistant Superintendent for Learning (CAI), Clarendon Hills, Illinois
Complete the online application process at www.bwpassociates.com by February 3, 2018. Application materials should include the following: a completed online Applicant Data Form; letter of interest; resume; written description of two significant educational accomplishments in the past year; three letters of reference with one from current supervisor preferred; copies of transcripts, and proof of Type 75 certification.  The candidate selected will begin the position July 1, 2018.
Tutor Hunt   A completely free service for both tutors and students to locate each other.  www.tutorhunt.com/
ASCD Job Ramp: A Careers Site for Educators Browse openings in your area
Vacancy:  Superintendent Position, Brookwood SD 167
Click here to download or view the Announcement of Vacancy. Applications are only accepted online. Please click here to apply. Applications accepted online no later than noon on February 14, 2018. For further information, please visit the IASB website.
Site Visits for Educators at Amundsen High School Amundsen High School , welcomes fellow educators to visit our school community at the dates listed below. We are proud of our many accomplishments and invite you to visit our school and see for yourself the exciting things that are happening in urban education. 
World of 7 Billion Video Contest Back by popular demand, the World of 7 Billion student video contest helps you bring technology and creativity into your middle and high school classes. The contest challenges your students to create a short video connecting world population growth and one of three global challenges: Advancing Women and Girls, Feeding 10 Billion, or Preventing Pollution. Students can win up to $1,000 and participating teachers will receive free curriculum resources. The contest deadline is February 22 , 2018 – use this lesson plan to get started now! Full contest guidelines, resources for research, past winners, and more can be found at https://www.worldof7billion.org/student-video-contest/ .
Empower Young People Through Music Classics for Kids Foundation supports school and community youth music programs in need by providing matching grants for new, high-quality stringed instruments, such as violins, violas, and cellos. Schools and nonprofit organizations must raise at least half of the funds to purchase the
requested number of instruments, using a provider authorized by the foundation. Programs that serve K–12 students are eligible for grants. The website offers guidance for starting a stringed instrumental program, including a proposed startup budget. We accept grant applications quarterly. Grant deadlines are: June 30, September 30, December 31 and March 31. Click Here to Visit Website
Library of Congress Summer Programs The Library of Congress is accepting applications for week-long summer programs for K-12 educators through March 21. Held at the Library, the professional development provides educators with tools and resources to effectively integrate primary sources into classroom teaching -- with a special emphasis on student engagement, critical thinking, and construction of knowledge.
Research
Publications
Facilitating Teacher Teams and Authentic PLCs
 In Facilitating Teacher Teams and Authentic PLCs , Daniel R. Venables draws on his extensive experience helping schools and districts implement effective PLCs to explore this crucial but often-overlooked need. Taking a two-pronged approach to PLC facilitation, Venables offers targeted guidance both for leading the people in teacher teams and for facilitating their work. Current and prospective PLC facilitators at every grade level will find this book an essential guide to navigating the challenging and rewarding endeavor of leading authentic PLCs. Build your skills, and help your team rise to the next level. Read chapter 1 for free. Browse the table of contents .
Disrupting Poverty: Five Powerful Classroom Practices Drawing upon decades of research and myriad authentic classroom experiences, Kathleen M. Budge and William H. Parrett dispel harmful myths, explain the facts, and urge educators to act against the debilitating effects of poverty on their students. Disrupting Poverty: Five Powerful Classroom Practices provides teachers, administrators, coaches, and others with the background information and the practical tools needed to help students break free from the cycle of poverty. Readers will explore classroom-tested strategies and practices, plus online templates and exercises that can be used for personal reflection or ongoing collaboration with colleagues. Read the book's Introduction for free. Browse the table of contents .
There is no such thing as a "classic underachiever." Students (and their reasons for underachieving) are influenced by a wide range of factors, including self-image, self-concept, social-emotional relationships and the amount of dignity teachers afford their students. Helping students achieve when they don't want to is not an easy task, but teachers can reengage and inspire students using veteran educator Jim Delisle's insights and practical advice.
The i5 Approach: Lesson Planning That Teaches Thinking and Fosters Innovation
Learn how to revamp existing lessons to combine effective technology use with thinking skills development. Authors Jane E. Pollock and Susan Hensley explain the i5 approach's foundation in brain research and provide step-by-step procedures for teaching 12 key thinking skills. They also share detailed lesson examples from the classrooms of teachers who have successfully "i5'ed" their instruction and helped students gain deeper and broader understanding of content and become stronger and more innovative thinkers. Read chapter 1 for free. Browse the table of contents .
Internet Sources
ASCD RESOURCES 
Educational Leadership is on Twitter - Follow @ELmagazine 
ASCD -- There's An App For That -  Download the app 
Browse EL, Our Blog, and Many Other Educator Resources on ASCD's Mobile Site
Go to www.ascd.org on your mobile device to access the site and explore the wealth of resources we've opened to you.
Follow ASCD on Twitter
ASCD has five Twitter channels, each intended to connect you with different aspects of our work and the latest developments in our field. Stay current on education news, policy developments and general education discussion by following @ASCD, our main channel.  Follow @ASCD . 
ASCD curates six boards that are home to pins on topics ranging from professional development to a whole child approach to education.
Find and follow them on Pinterest for ideas and inspiration.