Presented by Charles Williams on March 3, 2026.
Every strong school begins with a strong leader. This interactive session led by Dr. Charles Williams will help you cut through the noise of daily demands and focus on what truly matters. You’ll learn how to lead with clarity, reclaim your capacity, and cultivate care for both your team yourself.

Presented by Dylan Farley on September 24, 2026
The Whole School Approach (WSA) is a research-based framework that engages the entire school community including teachers, staff, families, and administrators to support both students’ academic growth and social-emotional learning (SEL). Rather than isolating interventions to specific programs or personnel, WSA integrates curriculum, school culture, and community partnerships to ensure all students have equitable access to support. The research conducted by presenter Dylan Farley and others shows that schools implementing WSA see improvements in academic outcomes, student engagement, and emotional well-being. By fostering shared responsibility and coordinated strategies, WSA creates a consistent, supportive environment where students can thrive academically and socially. This approach is practical and adaptable, providing schools with actionable strategies to address diverse student needs effectively.

Presented by Dr. Neil Lesinski on February 10, 2026
Effective communication is one of the most powerful tools school leaders have to shape culture, build trust, and strengthen community partnerships. In this session, Dr. Neil Lesinski will explore strategies for aligning internal and external communications so that messages are clear, consistent, and engaging. Participants will also learn how to empower staff, parents, and students to serve as authentic ambassadors, amplifying your district’s story and reinforcing a shared vision. Practical examples and actionable takeaways will help your team elevate communications from routine updates to meaningful connections.

Presented by Jeff Sefcik on January 27, 2026.
During this session, presenter Jeff Sefcik will share Stanton School's story of being a targeted school due to chronic absenteeism to earning a commendable status in just one year. Last year, with Jeff at the helm, Stanton School received its second consecutive commendable rating because of the committed work he and his staff did and continue to do as a trauma-informed school. Jeff will share how his staff, including the bus drivers, became certified trauma-informed specialists, how to improve daily routines and practices by being resilience-focused, and how changing the mindset from punitive to "Opportunities to Be Better" have impacted the student's behavior and social emotional growth. Stanton School's growth is validated by the data through significant improvements in student behaviors and daily attendance.

Presented by Desi Kobayashi on January 20, 2026.
This professional development session led by Desi Kobayashi will support school leaders in building knowledge, language, and strategies to effectively respond to harmful identity-based language and behaviors. Through this interactive session, participants will gain both conceptual understanding and practical tools to recognize and interrupt harmful language by cultivating practices that build empathy, cultural competence, and community responsibility. Using restorative circles, community agreements, and language resources, participants will learn how to speak up, listen deeply, repair harm, and strengthen relationships across differences.

Presented by Tracy Harrison on 1/13/26
Are you spending more time correcting challenging behaviors than acknowledging positive ones? Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of negativity that seems impossible to break? Are you supervising teachers and support staff who struggle to find the good in students?

Join presenter Tracy Harrison to discover how the science-backed ratio of positive to corrective interactions can dramatically transform your classroom climate and student behavior. You'll learn practical strategies to assess your current interaction patterns and implement simple techniques to achieve the ideal 5:1 positive-to-corrective ratio. Through data collection tools, technology aids, and specific praise techniques, you'll develop skills to "catch students being good" and pivot your attention strategically. Leave with ready-to-use methods that not only improve student behavior but also enhance your relationships with students and increase your own job satisfaction.

Presented by Dr. Brandi Kelly on Deember 16, 2025
Discover how hope can transform your leadership. In this 60-minute webinar presented by Dr. Brandi Kelly, you’ll explore the science of hope, learn the H.O.P.E. System for building resilience, and gain practical strategies to overcome obstacles and lead with purpose. Walk away inspired, equipped, and ready to turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

Presented by Dr. Mark Lahr and Zach Kettlekamp on December 4, 2025.
The Illinois State Police (ISP), Office of Firearms Safety (OFS) is proud to announce the launch of the Firearms Restraining Order (FRO) Outreach and Training Program, a new statewide initiative designed to strengthen public safety and save lives. Through this program, OFS will provide training and education to law enforcement agencies, school administrators, and community resource centers across Illinois. The goal is to raise awareness of the Firearms Restraining Orders as a viable tool for preventing gun violence and self-harm, while also ensuring that those who may petition for or enforce a FRO have the knowledge and resources to do so effectively. The program will also work to promote statewide consistency in how FROs are implemented. Special attention will be given to addressing inequities, ensuring that high-risk individuals and communities facing barriers to support have access and information to the protection FROs can provide. This initiative reflects the Illinois State Police's commitment to preventing tragedies before they occur and fostering strong partnerships with communities across the state.

Presented by Jane Kim on December 2, 2025
Devices, social media, and AI are designed to hook us into overuse, and no one is immune. This has snowballed into a time-consuming, costly burden on schools. This session, led by Jane Kim, shares a systems approach to social media and AI literacy that can change behaviors and school culture.

Presented by Dr. Stephanie Fike on November 18, 2025
This webinar, led by Dr. Stephanie Fike, is designed to help school districts understand the significant advantages of hiring and supporting second-career educators. Attendees will learn how these professionals bring diverse perspectives, a wealth of real-world experience, and a unique set of skills that can enrich the learning environment. The session will highlight the value of tapping into this untapped talent pool, emphasizing how second-career educators often possess strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities. Additionally, the webinar will provide strategies for school districts to better support, and retain these educators, ensuring that they feel valued and equipped to thrive in their new roles. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how second-career educators can strengthen their teaching teams and positively impact student outcomes.

Presented by Dr. Stacie Chana on November 6, 2025
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly shaping the future of education, yet without critical engagement, it risks reinforcing systemic biases and widening technological inequities. This session, led by Dr. Stacie Chana, empowers educational leaders to approach AI with a lens of equity and cultural responsiveness, ensuring that all learners are protected and informed about the challenges and opportunities AI presents. Participants will explore practical strategies for identifying AI bias, implementing responsible AI-driven decision-making, and developing policies that support ethical AI integration. This session will equip leaders with the knowledge needed to critically assess AI tools, advocate for fair and just technology use in schools, and guide students in becoming discerning users of AI.

Presented on November 4, 2025 by Denise Mytko
The world of work is changing fast. As school leaders, we have a unique opportunity to help students not just keep up but thrive by developing the skills they will need to navigate an ever-changing future.
Denise Mytko from Northwestern University's Center for Talent Development invites you to a webinar that will introduce labor market trends likely to shape future job opportunities and share strategies for fostering career exploration within a school community. You’ll learn practical ways to help students identify their strengths, explore a range of career paths, and prepare for the challenges and opportunities in the workforce.
This session is perfect for school leaders looking to build a culture of career readiness and equip educators with tools to actively engage students in their career exploration at any age.

Presented by Andrew Marotta on October 28, 2025
It is a whirlwind! An emergency room. A speeding highway of events, happenings, moving parts, and more--and you are in charge of it! You need this course in your life--Your Systems, Your Leadership by Andrew Marotta. This course has the "top 10" of techniques, strategies, and mindsets you need to survive and thrive in your day, week, month, and school year. Join Andrew for this fun, practical, and purposeful session.

Presented by Ilana Sherman on October 7, 2025
A recent study on Youth Help-Seeking Around Mental Health examines the impact of mental health education curricula in grades 5-12. The data is from student pre/post evaluations focusing on the identification of trusted adults and the students comfort in speaking with a trusted adult. The study and presentation from Shantal Saldaña provide clear recommendations for educators, classrooms and schools. Participants will learn about the latest data, impact of classroom-based interventions, and how to leverage data in their own classrooms to improve outcomes.

Every young person should have a trusted adult in their life. The Erika’s Lighthouse universal, Tier-1 depression education programs are effective at increasing help-seeking behavior by helping youth recognize additional prospective trusted adults and increasing their comfort level in speaking to a trusted adult about mental health.

Presented by Kimber Larson on September 30, 2025
This powerful presentation explores the lived experiences of elementary school principals who have faced unexpected, traumatic loss—and how those experiences influenced their emotional intelligence and leadership style. Through their deeply personal narratives, four key themes emerged: the importance of human connection, emotional insight, service to others, and finding purpose beyond loss. Join presenter Kimber Larson to discover how these leaders transformed grief into growth, offering fresh insights for leadership development, self-awareness, and the role of empathy in education.

Presented by Rebecca Francis and Devon LaRosa on 9/23/25
This experience, led by Rebecca Francis and Devon LaRosa, is designed for educators and educational leaders who seek to deepen their impact by leading with authenticity, empathy, and intentionality. At its core, "Unlocking Human Potential" recognizes that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we possess to humanize education and re-center connection in a system that too often prioritizes compliance over compassion.
Through storytelling, we move beyond transactional interactions and into transformational relationships. Stories invite us to name our struggles, celebrate our resilience, and embrace the complex, beautiful work of becoming. When educators and leaders share stories—of growth, challenge, identity, and change—we open the door for:
Resilience to take root in our school cultures,
Character to be modeled and nurtured in real, human ways,
Trust to be built authentically, not assumed,
And transparency to become a cultural norm, not an exception.
This session offers more than theory—it offers space. Space to reflect, to tell truth, to listen deeply, and to grow. It is an invitation to recognize the stories we carry and the stories our students and colleagues carry, and to use those narratives as bridges—toward belonging, equity, and possibility.
Because when we share our stories, we don’t just build community—we unlock human potential.

Presented by Barbara Applebaum on September 16, 2025
Technology is evolving faster than ever, and school leaders must navigate innovation while fostering a strong school culture — without feeling overwhelmed. This interactive session, led by Barbara Applebaum at The Social Institute, will explore how education leaders have adapted to past technology shifts and provide practical strategies for tackling today’s digital challenges, from A.I. in student work to misinformation and evolving school policies. Through real-world examples, engaging discussions, and hands-on activities, attendees will strengthen their leadership skills and ensure their school’s approach to technology remains proactive, not reactive.

Presented by Greg Christian on September 9, 2025.
This webinar is for principals who care about student well-being and want to explore what’s possible in the cafeteria. You’ll hear how school leaders are making small, smart changes that lead to fresher, healthier meals for kids, without needing to be food experts. Join presenter Greg Christian for easy next steps, real examples, and ideas you can use right away.

Presented by Jason Major on August 28, 2025
In this webinar, Jason Major of Chicago will go through each component of the wellness wheel and give practical tips and resources to help keep you fresh and mindful throughout the school year. He likes taking science-based ideas and making practical recommendations based on the webinar participants. Anyone looking to keeping themselves grounded or to do something different in the new school year would bet something from this webinar.

Presented by Jason Booher on August 26, 2025
As a 13-year-old teenager, Jason Booher survived the nation’s worst drinking and driving crash—the Carrollton Bus Crash—where 27 lives were lost in a fiery tragedy. With the support of public educators, he overcame unimaginable adversity and went on to achieve his dream of winning the KHSAA Sweet 16 Kentucky high school boys basketball state championship as a head coach. Now a superintendent, Jason shares his powerful journey of resilience, leadership, and the life-changing impact educators have on students, especially those facing hardship. This session will inspire, motivate, and remind educators that their influence extends far beyond the classroom—it can shape lives, build dreams, and create champions.

Presented by Kevin Spainhour on May 6, 2025
As the school year winds down, effective principals face the unique challenge of finishing strong while strategically planning for what’s next. This session led by Kevin Spainhour provides school administrators with practical tools, reflection templates, and leadership habits to help balance end-of-year priorities while helping to set a clear vision for the upcoming school year.

Participants will walk away with ready-to-use resources, a system for leadership planning, and actionable strategies to ensure the final months of school build momentum rather than burnout. Finish strong, plan smart, and lead your school with confidence.

Presented on April 29, 2025 by Patrick Wildman and Jessica Vargas
This presentation will explore the vital role of school counselors in fostering student success by collaborating effectively with administrators and teachers. Presenter Patrick Wildman will highlight how counselors support academic achievement, social-emotional development, and career readiness through proactive communication, data-driven interventions, and a team-based approach. Strategies for building strong partnerships, addressing student needs holistically, and creating a positive school climate will be discussed. Attendees will leave with practical insights on maximizing collaboration to ensure the success of all students.

Presented by Chad Dumas on April 22, 2025
Join presenter Chad Dumas to uncover the role, responsibilities, assumptions, and mindsets of effective teacher team leaders, plus explore a handful of simple, go-to moves, techniques, and strategies that will transform team collaboration. As a result of this experience, participants will…
- Understand the three key responsibilities of the team leader in a PLC
- Uncover assumptions and mindsets for successful team collaboration
- Explore a handful of simple actions that transform team functioning

Presented by Rebecca Francis on April 15, 2025
Authentic leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about influence, integrity, and self-awareness. This session explores how leading with authenticity unlocks potential in both leaders and those they serve, fostering deeper connections and sustainable impact.
1. Define and cultivate authentic leadership practices that align with personal values and organizational mission.
2. Empower others to reach their full potential by fostering a culture of trust, psychological safety, and accountability.
3. Apply reflective leadership techniques to continuously grow, adapt, and make purpose-driven decisions.

Presented by Shantal Saldana on April 8, 2025.
This session will provide attendees with practical tools to create inclusive school cultures around mental health, introduce auxiliary resources such as student and staff awareness into action activities, and offer opportunities to engage in activities that can be brought into school classrooms. These activities can be implemented in school buildings as part of a strategy to strengthen Tier 1 universal programming. Participants will learn how utilizing student voice can promote meaningful conversations around the topic of mental health and promote help-seeking as an early identification and prevention strategy. Participants will receive access to free Tier 1 mental health programs and resources.

Presented by Andrew Marotta on March 5, 2025
Speaking and leading a presentation is a skill. Why are some great and some tough to sit through? Join Andrew Marotta for this engaging and practical session on creating amazing presentations. Canva, Google Slides, flow, timing, interactive, using props, telling stories, and more. Andrew will break down the presentations and share usable tips, tricks, and strategies to make your next presentation AWESOME!

Presented by Phil Boyte on February 13, 2025
Ready to create a PEOPLE FIRST culture where everyone feels valued and energized? Join Phil Boyte—creator of Link Crew and the Breaking Down the Walls program—for an engaging webinar packed with simple, practical ideas to help leaders take care of themselves and their teams.

Phil will share real-world strategies to strengthen relationships, build trust, and make small moments matter. You’ll leave with fresh inspiration and tangible tools to foster a thriving, people-centered culture.

Presented by Andrew Marotta on 2/12/25
So, so, so many aspects to the ART of communication. Andrew Marotta dives deep into this subject, which can make or break you as an educator. Andrew breaks it down into three areas: The one-on-one meeting, the large setting, and everything else. Andrew explores storytelling, listening skills, and techniques to help you thrive in your communication and interactions with others in the school setting! He will share concepts such as E+R=O, 8-37-55, and how to tell the right story at the right time to the right people!

Presented by Ann Cummins Bogan on 2/4/2025
The session, led by Ann Cummins Bogan, will balance theory, research, and practical strategies for creating a collaborative systems approach that intentionally engages the perspectives of all members of the school community. We will share foundational research and theory about the impact of collaboration and partnerships on school climate and student achievement, providing an opportunity for reflection on current practice.

ACB’s Six Building Blocks for Effective Systems will be shared along with specific tools and strategies for creating or refining school leadership teams focused on the continuous improvement of teaching and learning with students at the center.

Presented by Andrew Marotta on 1/29/2025.
Join Andrew Marotta LIVE on this journey of becoming more self-aware of yourself as a person, educator, and leader. Andrew challenges your thinking and has you perform several powerful exercises to deepen your thoughts on your own emotional intelligence on the journey of uplifting and inspiring others. Looking back at events, projects, and contests and asking yourself and others: What went well, what didn't, and how could I have been better? How do we absorb feedback like this and grow from it? Andrew will walk you through the steps and even examine building your own personal motto/logo.

Presented by Amy Jackson on January 16, 2025
The Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan is a framework designed to support literacy development, ensuring that all students across the state have the best opportunities for becoming skilled readers. This webinar will share the purpose, goals, and the objectives of each goal, as well as how districts can begin addressing literacy reform within their own schools. Participants will have an understanding of the new initiative and a sense of direction for implementation. Attendees will gain knowledge and actionable next steps to set the foundation and continuum for literacy success! This webinar is ideal for administrators, teacher leaders, instructional coaches, and any educational leaders. Join us for this information-filled session and gain confidence in growing your district’s literacy!

Presented by Codi Conway, Heather Bowman, and Jill Hibbard on Januar 14, 2025.
This webinar on language comprehension focuses on the skills and knowledge students need to understand and interpret text. Participants will delve into the topic of language comprehension and discover how it sets the stage for students to develop proficient reading comprehension skills. With this, participants will learn why background knowledge and vocabulary are essential skills that translate into comprehension. This session is ideal for teachers looking to deepen their understanding and improve literacy instruction in alignment with Science of Reading research.

Presented by Codi Conway, Heather Bowman, and Jill Hibbard on December 17, 2024
This webinar on word recognition explores essential components like phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, and sight recognition. Participants will delve into the research-based practices that underpin effective word recognition, enabling students to move from basic phonics to fluent reading. Through the webinar, attendees will learn structured techniques that help students recognize words quickly and accurately, which later provides a strong foundation for reading comprehension. This session is ideal for teachers looking to deepen their understanding and improve literacy instruction in alignment with Science of Reading research.

Presented by Matt Thomann on November 19, 2024
In this presentation, we explore John Gottman's "4 Horsemen," rebranded as "Team Toxins," to address common communication pitfalls among coworkers. These toxins—criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling—often surface during times of adversity and growth. By identifying and addressing these behaviors, educators can navigate conflict more effectively, foster healthier professional relationships, and build a stronger, more collaborative school environment.

Presented by Kevin Spainhour on November 14, 2024
This webinar will help participants identify and engage with numerous stakeholders to positively impact schools. Register to learn assessment strategies, tactics for engagement, and keys to positive changes in your school.

Presented by Dr. Neil Lesinski on November 12, 2024.
A learning organization thrives on psychological safety and accountability, where individuals feel comfortable sharing ideas and making mistakes while still being held to a high standard in the pursuit of high-performance outcomes. Building this culture requires fostering open communication, active listening, and empathy. This webinar will teach you how to develop a safe space for learning and growth that will enhance innovation, problem-solving, and overall performance through increased accountability and shared responsibility.