It’s been SAId: Conversations on leadership School Administrators of Iowa

This episode features a conversation between SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy and 2024 Iowa Elementary Principal of the Year Jason Groendyke from Sheldon, who offers insights on effective planning, data-driven decision-making, and fostering a positive school culture.Listeners can expect key takeaways on
The importance of early planning — starting the planning process for the next school year in spring, particularly April and May.
Using a student-centered approach — the importance of keeping students at the forefront of all decision-making, using four key questions to guide planning and instruction.
Collaborative leadership — the value of collaborating with administrative teams, building leadership teams, and staff members when making decisions and planning for the school year.
Data-driven decision-making — using data, such as climate surveys, to inform changes and improvements in school culture.
Professional development strategies — organizing effective professional development for staff and setting clear expectations.
Building school culture — strategies for fostering a positive school climate, including implementing restorative practices and incorporating student feedback.
Embracing discomfort for growth: The discussion emphasizes the importance of being comfortable with discomfort to promote personal and professional growth.

Join SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy as she gains an insightful look into College Community's comprehensive system of supports for students from Laura Medberry, the district's executive director of learning supports.This episode showcases the district's comprehensive and collaborative approach to supporting the holistic well-being of students, involving community partnerships, trauma-informed practices, data-driven decision-making, and a shared vision for meeting students' social, emotional and behavioral needs.

Tragic. Sudden. Terrible. Words to describe a moment when death or tragedy strikes your school. But what should you do next? Often, we are unprepared for these events because we've never thought about them in advance. Join SAI President and Union High School Principal Jason Toenges as he provides real-life stories and considerations if you are ever faced with a death or tragedy in your building or district.

Join SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy as she discusses the mental wellness continuum of supports implemented by the Harlan School District with Superintendent Jenny Barnett. This conversation will not only explore Harlan's successful strategies, but also equip you with valuable tips on finding additional resources to bolster student mental health in your own community.
Learn more about creating a supportive school environment where students can thrive.

Join us for a captivating conversation with Al Neppl, the incoming Associate Professional Learning Director at SAI!
In this episode of "It's been SAId: Conversations on leadership," you'll hear:
Al's unique insights from working in both small and large school districts.
His passionate perspective on the transformative power of professional learning.
Exciting plans for the future as he connects with SAI members across the state.
Al's recent learning experiences and a few resources relevant to your own educational journey.
Tune in and get ready to be inspired!

Join SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy as she talks with Adel-De Soto-Minburn Superintendent Greg Dufoe about how the district embraced the 4 Disciplines of Execution to create breakthrough results.
Listen now to learn more about the 4 Disciplines—focus, leverage, engagement, and accountability—and how they might reset your school improvement process.