Welcome to GCSSA's newest monthly eNews Communication featuring what you may have missed last month, and what's coming up in the near future. We hope you can take some time to read through the information provided to stay informed of insights and updates that have an impact on your district. As always, we appreciate your involvement and support!

What you missed ...

The AI Roadmap: Human Learning in the Age of Smart Machines

On Tuesday, December 10, educators and thought leaders gathered at the ESC of Northeast Ohio to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and human learning in an inspiring event titled The AI Roadmap: Human Learning in the Age of Smart Machines. 

Led by John Spencer—a former middle school teacher turned college professor and advocate for creativity in education—the session captivated attendees with its forward-thinking insights and practical takeaways.

Spencer, known for his engaging style and passion for fostering innovative learning environments, shared his vision for how schools can harness the power of AI to enhance creativity rather than stifle it. He emphasized the importance of balancing smart machine capabilities with human ingenuity, urging educators to see AI as a partner in the learning process rather than a replacement for human interaction.

Key topics included:

• AI as a Tool for Amplifying Creativity: Spencer highlighted how AI can streamline administrative tasks and personalize learning, freeing educators to focus on fostering creativity and critical thinking in the classroom.
• Preparing Students for the AI Era: Attendees learned strategies to equip students with skills such as problem-solving, adaptability, and ethical reasoning, essential for thriving in an AI-driven world.
• Ethics and Responsibility: Spencer addressed the ethical considerations of AI in education, including data privacy and ensuring equity in access to AI-driven tools.

The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where participants posed thoughtful questions about integrating AI into curriculum design and its potential long-term impact on education.

This free event, hosted at the ESC of NEO, drew a diverse audience eager to understand AI's evolving role in education. It left attendees inspired to reimagine their teaching practices and embrace AI as a catalyst for transforming schools into vibrant hubs of learning and innovation.

What's to come ...

Employment Trends for Superintendents and GCSSA Salary Study Results Analysis: Tuesday, January 21; 9-11 am

Join us for an insightful event focusing on the latest employment trends for superintendents in Ohio. This comprehensive session will explore the evolving landscape of educational leadership and the factors influencing superintendent roles across the state.

Featured Speakers

Dr. David Axner of the Buckeye Association of School Administrators (BASA) will outline the comprehensive support mechanisms BASA has established to assist both new and experienced superintendents in navigating the challenges and opportunities of the 2025 educational landscape.

Cheryl Ryan of OSBA will offer valuable insights into the priorities of school boards during superintendent searches for 2025 and beyond. Her presentation will highlight the key qualities and attributes most sought after by school boards in today's evolving educational environment.

GCSSA Salary Study Results Analysis

11:30 am- 12:30 pm @ ESC of NEO (virtual option also available) 

Stay for lunch, or join virtually for a deep dive into the “GCSSA Salary Study Results Analysis.” In-person attendees can enjoy lunch and there is also an option to join via ZOOM.

Date: Tuesday, January 21 @ 9 am

Location: ESC of NEO (6393 Oak Tree Boulevard)

Cost: FREE

To register, e-mail Teri Hedrick at thedrick@osconline.org.

Legal Update with Ennis Britton: Stump the Attorney

on Tuesday, March 11 @ 9 am

Join the Greater Cleveland School Superintendents' Association for an engaging and informative session featuring the legal experts from Ennis Britton. This event will provide school leaders with the latest updates on critical legal issues affecting education. Attendees will also have the unique opportunity to participate in a lively "Stump the Attorney" segment, where pressing legal questions are answered live. This is a must-attend event for superintendents and school administrators seeking to stay informed and proactive in navigating the complex legal landscape of public education.

Date: Tuesday, March 11 @ 9 am

Location: ESC of NEO (6393 Oak Tree Boulevard)

Cost: FREE

To register, e-mail Teri Hedrick at thedrick@osconline.org.