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The Fundamentals. The Relationships. Start Your First 90 Days Strong.
First of Three Gatherings Designed Exclusively for New Illinois Superintendents

We hope you can join us July 13–15 in Springfield for the first in a series of gatherings built exclusively for new district leaders and rooted in decades of real-world experience. The IASA New Superintendents' Conference is a unique opportunity to learn from experienced practitioners and build lasting connections with peers navigating the same transition.


The July gathering is centered on your first 90 days in the role, with a focus on the fundamentals every new superintendent needs. In the winter and spring, IASA has built in strategic checkpoints for new superintendents to come back together, continue growing, and deepen the community forged at this first conference.


Learn from People Who've Walked in Your Shoes

The July conference draws on some of the most experienced voices in Illinois school leadership — IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark, Associate Director for Professional Learning Dr. Dawn Bridges, IASA Field Services Directors who are retired superintendents who mentor early-career district leaders, and current superintendents from across Illinois. They've walked in your shoes, and they're here to help you walk more confidently in yours.


The Topics That Matter Most in Your First Year

Together, they'll guide you through the topics that matter most right now:


  • Board-Superintendent Relations
  • School Finance Fundamentals
  • Strategic Leadership Practices
  • Legal Guidance
  • Best Practices and Common Pitfalls
  • Personal Wellness


Rather than a firehose of information, the conference is built around interaction and conversation — giving you the space to engage, ask questions, and connect with peers who understand exactly where you are.


It's a complete picture of the superintendency, delivered by the people best positioned to paint it.


Reserve Your Spot

There is no registration fee and meals are provided — just make your own lodging arrangements and register by June 19.


We hope you'll join your fellow new superintendents in Springfield this July. The connections you make with peers navigating the same transition have a way of lasting throughout your career.

Where:

Crowne Plaza Springfield-Convention Center


Welcome Reception 

Monday, July 13, 
5-7 pm (optional)

Crowne Plaza - Capital View Room


First Day of Conference

July 15, 8 am-5 pm

Sapphire Ballroom


Dinner 6 pm

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum


Second Day of Conference

July 14, 8 am - 12:30 pm


Cost

No charge; meals are provided. However, you are responsible for your own lodging.


Please register by June 19, 2026. 

Questions: Email Kristy Ponsler or call 217-753-2213.

Lodging

While the Conference itself is free, registrants are responsible for housing. For your convenience, IASA has booked a hotel room block at the Conference site, Crowne Plaza Springfield-Convention Center, for Monday night, July 13, through Tuesday night, July 14, checking out Wednesday, July 15. However, participants are welcome to reserve a room at the hotel of their choice. There are multiple options within the vicinity of the conference location in which to stay.


To make a room reservation in the block at the Crowne, please phone 217-529-7777 and request block "IASA New Superintendents," or click here to Book a Room.