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2 Sen. Kate SullivanTakes the Reins as NCSA EXECUTIVE BOARD Education Committee Chair 2012-2013 BY ELISABETH REINKORDT Chair ...... Dave Kaslon 4 Sen. Jeremy Nordquist Introduces LB 553 Vice Chair ...... Greg Barnes Addressing Retirement Fund Shortfall Past Chair ...... Jack Moles BY ELISABETH REINKORDT NASA Representatives President ...... Tim DeWaard 6 Building Relationships with Legislators Keeps NASES President-elect ...... Mike Teahon Conversation Current Past President ...... Greg Barnes BY JANE BYERS and ELLEN STOKEBRAND NASBO Representatives 8 Educating the Citizens ofTomorrow President ...... Jill Pauley BY DR. CHRIS STOGDILL President-elect . . . . . Kelli Ackerman Past President ...... Dave Kaslon 9 The Principal’s Office BY ANN JABLONSKI NAESP Representatives President ...... Ann Jablonski 10 InsurerTax Affects EHA Rates President-elect ...... Mike Janssen BY GREG LONG Past President ...... David Kraus 11 Legislative Session Begins!!! NASES Representatives BY DR. MIKE DULANEY and DR. DAN ERNST President ...... Jane Moody President-elect ...... Brenda Tracy 12 NSASSP Announces Distinguished Service Award Past President ...... Stuart Clark 13 NSASSP Announces NSASSP Representatives Outstanding New Principal of theYear President ...... Chris Stogdill President-elect . . . . . Brian Tonniges 14 NSASSP Announces Past President . . . Mitch Bartholomew Assistant Principal of theYear Award Education and Poverty in Nebraska: What Increasing NARSA Representative 15 President ...... Robert Bussmann Poverty Means in Nebraska Classrooms BY TED STILWILL NCSA STAFF 17 NAESP National Distinguished Principal from Dr. Michael S. Dulaney Nebraska is Announced Executive Director/Lobbyist NAESP Announces Dr. Dan E. Ernst 18 Associate Executive Director/Lobbyist Outstanding New Principal of theYear Kelly Coash-Johnson 7 NASA Longevity Awards Training and Development Director 13 Special Announcements Amy Poggenklass 14 NSASSP Longevity Awards Finance and Membership Coordinator 18 NAESP Longevity Awards Angie Carman Executive Administrative Assistant 20 Calendar of Events Carol Young NCSA Mission Administrative Assistant The mission of the Nebraska Council of School Administrators (NCSA) is to be an effec - Elisabeth Reinkordt tive leader for quality education and to enhance the professionalism of its members. Staff Correspondent NCSA Today is a benefit of membership in the Nebraska Council of School Administrators, 455 South 11th The opinions expressed in NCSA Today Street, Suite A, Lincoln, NE 68508. Telephone 402.476.8055 or 800.793.6272. Fax 402.476.7740. An - nual membership dues are $335 (active members), $100 (associate members), or $40 (student members). or by its authors do not necessarily NCSA Today is published quarterly. Send address changes to NCSA, Membership, 455 South 11th Street, reflect the positions of the Nebraska Suite A, Lincoln, NE 68508. Copyright ©2013 by NCSA. All rights reserved. Council of School Administrators.

WINTER 2013 NCSA TODAY 1 FEATURE Sen. Kate SullivanTakes the Reins as Education Committee Chair BY ELISABETH REINKORDT, Staff Correspondent

hen Senator they moved to Cedar Rapids, where they have lived for Kate Sulli - the past 30 years. Sullivan served 12 years on the local Wvan looks board of education in Cedar Rapids, and both of her out on her family farm in daughters graduated from high school there. Her daugh - Valley County, she can see ter Mollie Morrow is now a teacher in the Elkhorn Public the one-room schoolhouse Schools, and Sullivan herself has continually remained she attended as a child. involved in education in one way or another throughout “We’re considering what to her life. “It’s been pretty much ingrained in me to see do to preserve its future, the importance of a quality education no matter where and maybe move it to a lo - a child lives,” she said, adding, “It’s a high quality edu - cation where we can better cation that leads to a child becoming a productive citi - document the history of zen.” one-room country schools,” First elected to the Legislature in 2008, Sullivan im - she said, “but that’s an - mediately expressed her preference for serving on the other story!” Sullivan was Education Committee, and she was pleased that her in - elected as chair of the Edu - terest was recognized. She has served on the committee cation Committee on Janu - for four years, and ready to step into the helm. “In some ary 9th, and the rural respects, I think and hope that these last four years have senator is excited to take been different than what I hope the future will be. We’ve on her new leadership role. As the Legislature’s 2013 ses - taken some big hits in education—as our whole state sion begins, Sullivan is optimistic that after a few years budget has—because of the nationwide economic reces - of tightening budgets in difficult economic times, the sion and because of the shortfalls we’ve had in our state future is looking brighter. “I’m proud to say that Ne - budget.” Looking to the future, Sullivan said that while braska is a state that values education,” she said. she doesn’t think the Legislature will become “wild-eyed Senator Sullivan is a spenders,” at least finances are beginning to level off. rural Nebraskan through “We’re not in crisis mode anymore.” …“there are a lot of and through. After grad - As a foundation of her educational philosophy, Sulli - uating from Ord High van reflected on the fact that “there are a lot of socie - societal changes taking School, Sullivan at - tal changes taking place that make a big impact on place that make a big tended the University of education, and there are challenges that the teacher in impact on education, and Nebraska -L incoln, where the classroom faces, and those of us who have to decide she earned both a bach - an equitable form of funding to meet some of those chal - there are challenges that elor’s and master’s de - lenges,” will have their work cut out for them in terms the teacher in the gree in Home Economics. of policy changes to meet those needs. She spent ten years on Of course, state aid to education is one of the lead - classroom faces, and the faculty at the Ne - ing issues for the Legislature, and Sullivan anticipated those of us who have to braska Cooperative Ex - introducing the updated State Aid bill on January 21st. tension Service before In developing the legislation, Sullivan explained that decide an equitable form she and her husband over the summer, the committee held public hearings re - of funding to meet some Mike moved to Mason lated to state aid across the state, and the main watch - of those challenges”… City, in Custer County. words that emerged were “equity, predictability, and Her husband is a banker, sustainability.” While there was little comment on the and from Mason City, (continued on page 3)

2 NCSA TODAY WINTER 2013 FEATURE

Kate Sullivan, Education Committee Chair (continued from page 2) formula itself, she said, they heard many con - cerns on the burden being placed on prop - erty owners because of increasing land values. She said she was “pleased to see that the Governor will con - tinue his support for education,” with a pro - posed five percent in - crease for two years and a five percent in - crease in special edu - cation funding. “But ultimately, what the Education Committee is going to have to look at is that current esti - mates show a ten per - cent increase, but we Senator Sullivan confers with Tammy Barry, Committee Legal Counsel, and Kris Valentin, Research Analyst. realistically know that that’s not realistic, nor is it sustainable.” currently involved in early childhood. “We heard that everything However, she was quick to note, she would reserve any definite seemed to be working really well, and we’ve given them some as - opinions or predictions on changes to the formula, emphasizing, sistance through the lottery dollars,” she said. However, this fund - “the bill will be deliberated in committee, and that’s where the ing structure will need to be revisited, because the current uses real work will happen.” of lottery dollars under the Education Innovation Act will be end - The second issue that has been prevalent in the Education ing after this year. Sullivan’s committee will therefore be intro - Committee’s work is accountability, and Sullivan noted that now ducing legislation calling for a study on the use of those dollars that the state test is in place and operational, it is time to look and plans for the future. ahead. One of the leading questions in state education policy re - Sullivan laughed that it remains to be seen “just how Senator mains whether Nebraska will be adopting the Common Core, and Sullivan will operate as Chair of the Education Committee, be - Sullivan was pleased that she and Dr. Breed were in agreement cause I’m still trying to figure that out as well!” She added, that “as a state, we should tread slowly on this,” focusing on what though, that she considers herself to be very open-minded and the state is doing now before making any changes. “It’s not re - flexible, and she values keeping the lines of communication open. ally the Legislature’s decision,” she added, “but if the State Board “I welcome the opportunity for dialogue,” she said, “and we’ve of Education decides to adopt, we need to have the framework in got 249 school districts that are very, very different and we’ve place.” In looking at the state tests in place now, Sullivan noted, got changing demographics in this state.” In closing, even though “We have a good base.” her passion as a rural senator is for encouraging young people to Another topic that the Education Committee investigated in get a quality education and invest in rural communities, she takes the interim was early childhood education. “Early childhood seems very seriously the state’s constitutional responsibility to educate to be one of the hot-button topics right now,” she explained, and all children. “It is one of our biggest challenges as a state to make “the business community is starting to take note.” With the sure that we live up to that responsibility,” she emphasized, “to amount of entities involved in early childhood education, the educate every child, whether they are in Arthur, Nebraska or in committee decided to narrow its focus just on the public schools North Omaha.” I

WINTER 2013 NCSA TODAY 3 RETIREMENT LEGISLATION Sen. Jeremy Nordquist Introduces LB 553 Addressing Retirement Fund Shortfall BY ELISABETH REINKORDT, Staff Correspondent

as policymakers to find ways to maintain that promise that we have made for decades. It’s up to us to figure out how to live up to our end of the bargain,” he said. “We knew we had a big hole to climb out of after the 2008-2009 market crash,” he said, setting the stage for the changes underway. Indeed, in the years since the start of the recession, the state’s pension fund has come up short, and is currently facing $108 million actuarial shortfall. But, he noted, “We’re not going to be like other states that just ignore this issue.” The bill, LB 553, was introduced by Nordquist’s Re - tirement Systems Committee on January 16th and has since been referred to committee. Nordquist underscored the fact that “this legislation would help create some additional sustainability in our pension plans for school employees,” noting that “the state has long-term liabil - s the 2013 Legislative session gets underway, ities and we have short-term liabilities that we have to Senator Jeremy Nordquist makes clear: state meet, and this package would ultimately be an attempt Aaid to schools and pension liabilities for pub - to address both these long-term and short-term liabili - lic employees are both going to be big topics of discus - ties.” sion. “State Aid to Education and [Retirement] are the So, what exactly is at stake for school employees? two biggest issues driving our budget shortfall right now, First, Nordquist praised school administrators and teach - so we need to find a balance on both of them,” he said ers for being willing to increase their contribution rates in a January 11th interview, just as the session began. when the country’s financial woes began. “The contribu - As Chair of the Retirement Committee, however, tion that teachers are making—which is just at about Nordquist is entering the session with confidence, thanks 10 percent—is, on top of Social Security, already a pretty to the hard work and collaboration of NCSA, NSEA, and substantial proportion of their income,” Nordquist ex - NASB representa - plained, adding that “we have previously raised contri - tives in crafting a bution rates on [school employees] to a point that …“we have previously raised piece of legislation certainly I—as well as NSEA, NCSA, and the school contribution rates on [school with solutions for boards can all agree that the rate we’re at is probably employees] to a point that both short-term and about as high as we should reasonably go.” However, the long-term needs. Retirement Committee has suggested that the rate in - certainly I—as well as NSEA, “Members of our creases remain at the increased level rather than sun- NCSA, and the school boards new committee are setting. Again, Nordquist praised the leadership of the very committed to three organizations, noting, “Teachers and administra - can all agree that the rate maintaining our De - tors have come to the table and have agreed that they’ll we’re at is probably about as fined Benefit Plan continue with this increased rate to their pension plans. for our school em - I greatly appreciate that,” he added. high as we should reasonably ployees and for all Additionally, Nordquist is proposing that the state in - go.” of our public ser - creases its rate of contribution, too. “The state con - vants. It’s up to us (continued on page 5)

4 NCSA TODAY WINTER 2013 RETIREMENT LEGISLATION

Jeremy Nordquist Addresses Retirement Fund Shortfall (continued from page 4) tributes, right now, 1 percent of salary to the plan. We raised In discussing the rea - “We’re not just trying that, in 2009, from 0.7 percent to 1 percent, and now I’m going soning for these to get by today, but to propose taking that to 2 percent in the legislation I intro - changes, Nordquist duce,” he said. noted that “This will trying to make this But keeping the contribution rates of current employees at help reassure policy - plan sustainable for their current level is still not enough to address the shortfall, and makers that we won’t even with an increase in the state’s contribution, Nordquist ex - see as much spiking decades to come” … plained further that a change in the way the state handles its in the plans.” In sum - amortization is also part of the plan. “We know the state can’t mary, he explained come up with the whole $108 million shortfall, and we aren’t that this legislation going to move the contribution rates on teachers and adminis - will address long-term needs by “pushing off some of the liabil - trators any higher. But what we can do is change our amortiza - ity by changing the amortization method, and by bringing in new tion methods,” he said. Instead of looking at the state’s liability employees at a lower benefit, which will help balance it all out and spreading it out over 30 years of equal payments, the state over time.” would instead move to a “level percent of pay” method, which “We’re not just trying to get by today, but trying to make this assumes that as pay increases over time, the state’s contribution plan sustainable for decades to come,” he said, noting that an ad - toward the unfunded liability would increase over time, too. ditional challenge has been a reduction in the state’s annual re - Laughing that he was sounding like a policy wonk, Nordquist ex - turn on investment rate from 8 percent to 7.75 percent, resulting plained that this system—which is what is used in most other in an additional annual $39 million shortfall. When asked how he states—takes into account the “time value of money, because thought his fellow senators would greet the legislation, Nordquist the value of a $500 payment 30 years from now is not going to was confident they knew what to expect. “When we talk about the be the same as it is today.” Nordquist anticipates that there might short-term liabilities, I think my colleagues will understand that be questions about the change in amortization rate, about we don’t have a whole lot of options.” whether “we might be kicking the can down the road,” so to “It is extremely helpful that all three organizations are in speak, but he is confident it is a workable part of the solution for agreement,” Nordquist emphasized, adding, “It would be easy for Nebraska. everyone’s membership to dig in and say ‘We’re not going to give Finally, LB 263 also introduces another piece agreed upon by ground,’ but luckily the teachers, administrators and the boards NCSA, NSEA, and NASB—a plan for new hires that addresses long- have been so willing to work together. It certainly makes my job term challenges in benefit funding. Once again, Nordquist praised easier as a Chair!” the collaborative efforts of the school associations. “We also have Leaders from NCSA’s partner organizations agreed. “We are great agreement from the organizations to put together a new pleased to be working with our peer organizations to find a so - benefit package for new hires,” he said, explaining that “that’s a lution to this problem,” said NASB Executive Director John Spatz. long term fix—we bring down benefits for new hires…and we’re Craig Christiansen, Executive Director of NSEA, was equally en - not going to see those savings for many, many years.” thusiastic, and agreed it was great to have all the organizations The plan for new hires makes two basic changes: one related working together. Mike Dulaney, NCSA Executive Director, also to cost of living increases, the other to calculating a payment agrees, stating: “This collaborative effort is a great testament to rate based on highest salary. “The benefit package for new hires the ability of our three organizations to address issues facing ed - is going to reduce their cost-of-living increase—right now it’s at ucation.” I 2.5 percent, and we’ll take that down to 1 percent,” Nordquist explained. And as far as a calculation of pay based on salary, Nordquist noted that while this is currently calculated using the employee’s top three years of salary, the new plan will increase that range to five years, thus bringing down the average slightly and discouraging a last-minute run-up of salary before retirement.

WINTER 2013 NCSA TODAY 5 ADVOCACY Building Relationships with Legislators Keeps NASES Conversation Current BY JANE BYERS, Special Services Director, Papillion-La Vista Public Schools and ELLEN STOKEBRAND, Special Education Director, ESU #4, NASES Legislative Representative

here’s a saying that goes something like this… short, the conversation concerning issues in education “If the mountain won’t come to Mohammed, were intense. Questions were asked and answered and Tthen Mohammed must go to the mountain.” relationships were created. Never is this saying more true when you have an impor - The next January, that Capitol Hill experience was tant story to tell. When it comes to sharing information recreated in Lincoln, and NASES members went to ‘the with the Nebraska Unicameral, the Nebraska Association mountain.’ In kicking off the Legislative Conference, Mike of Special Education Supervisors (NASES) decided that Dulaney continued the tradition of sharing a legislative we had a story that must be heard. And, in order to be update with members, providing information on the hot heard, we had to go to the mountain. topics regarding special education, state aid, and fund - Each spring during Nebraska’s Unicameral’s legislative ing. Talking points for the meetings were provided. Byers session, NASES would invite the Senators to join them NASES leadership shared tips in having that initial con - for a terrific lunch or breakfast at the Cornhusker. Sched - versation with their senators. Members were advised to ules were always tight and conversations were always set appointments with their state senators prior to the rushed. Substantial discussions about special education conference. However, if appointments weren’t set, mem - in Nebraska, the provision of services to children with bers were still encouraged to head to the Capitol and disabilities, and funding those services were rare and in - take the opportunity to have a 5-10 minute ‘rotunda complete. In 2006, term limits began to impact the leg - conversation’ with their senator. Relationships were islative landscape in Nebraska. Historical knowledge formed and NASES members were able to educate their concerning the funding of school districts and special senators about the issues surrounding the provision of Stokebrand education began to disappear. It was time to go to the special education and its funding. mountain. That year, NASES hosted an informational ses - An important component of the Capitol visits is the sion for state senators and their aides concerning special ‘debriefing’ of the visits as an organization. Conversa - education in Nebraska. Held at the Capitol for Senators tions are shared and members are able to follow up with and their aides, a small NASES delegation shared the his - their senators and provide additional information. Com - tory of special education in Nebraska, the funding ments regarding the process are discussed and ideas for process and the stories of success for students with dis - the next legislative conference begin to take shape. Each abilities and their families. The presentation was well re - year, NASES has continued to refine its Legislative con - ceived and a new relationship between NASES and the ference. Members began to schedule meetings within legislature was created. their regions to maximize their time and support each Despite the successful training, changes and reduc - other in the conversation. Because of geography, multi - tions to state aid formulas and funding in Nebraska be - ple meetings with area senators were held. Conversations came another tilting point for NASES in 2007. Districts continued in the Rotunda, just outside the legislative were experiencing increased pressure from the Governor chamber. Senators began to recognize the expertise of and Legislature to reduce costs. Special education costs the special education directors and coordinators in their were rising and for the first time in several years, the districts. And conversations were no longer short and legislature did not match the allowable increase (?) of limited, but rather extended over the session and previous years’ funding levels. In July 2007, NASES sent throughout the year. a small delegation to the CASE “Sustaining Excellence Again, in 2011, NASES experienced a tilting point. Through Special Education Leadership” Seminar in Wash - After a second year of a decreased percentage in state ington DC. While at the seminar, the delegation spent a funding, a one-page explanation and history of special day on Capitol Hill visiting with Nebraska’s Congressional education funding beginning with the 2000-2001 school delegation and their aides. Though the meetings were (continued on page 7)

6 NCSA TODAY WINTER 2013 ADVOCACY

(continued from page 6) Building Relationships islative conference were included, with an invitation to the sen - year was created. Costs of special education continued to rise and ators to participate in the continuing conversation regarding spe - state funding continued a flat trajectory. For the first time, local cial education and funding in Nebraska. The updated funding districts shouldered more of the burden of the costs than state or document is again being shared with senators prior to our actual federal funds. Trend data regarding the percentages of students visits to the Capitol. It is our hope that providing this preview with significant disabilities as well as frequently asked questions prior to our visits allows NASES to maintain and continue to was also included. This one-page document was updated and deepen the level of communication with our representatives in shared during the 2012 legislative session. The document was also the legislature. shared with Nebraska’s Congressional delegation during visits to In 2006, it became apparent that NASES needed to take a dif - Capitol Hill in July. ferent approach in telling the story of special education in Ne - During the 2012 debriefing, NASES recognized that term lim - braska. In taking our story to ‘the mountain,’ NASES began a its would again become an issue as the legislature would be wel - progression of events that have evolved into a proactive and pro - coming 11 new senators during the 2013 Legislative session. At ductive relationship. While issues with funding and the provision that time, members recommended that we continue to be proac - of appropriate services remain, legislators have information and tive by sharing information concerning special education and data prior to the discussions held in committee and on the floor funding prior to the legislative session. Letters of congratulations of the legislature. When there are questions to address, the rela - were sent to the new senators, welcoming them to the Legislature tionship between the NASES membership and their senators allows and sharing with them the challenges and costs of providing spe - for the conversation and a discussion of the answers. To be ef - cial education during an economic recession. Emails welcoming re - fective in supporting our students, families and districts, we turning senators back to the 2013 Legislative session were also needed to make a change. We couldn’t wait for the mountain to sent. In both communications, the dates of our upcoming leg - come to NASES—so, NASES went to the mountain. I NASA Longevity Awards (These individuals were recognized at the 2012 State Education Conference, November 14-16) 35 Years (Joined in 1978) Kathryn Griesse, Crawford Public Schools Michael Cunning, Hershey Public Schools James Sutfin, Millard Public Schools Rick Black, Papillion-LaVista Kevin Chick, Millard Public Schools Patrick Osmond, Callaway Public Schools Peggy Rupprecht, Westside Community Schools Steve Sampy, Eustis-Farnam Public Schools 30 Years (Joined in 1983) Alan Garey, Medicine Valley Public Schools Dwaine Uttecht, Ravenna Public Schools Matthew Fisher, Northwest Public Schools Larry Harnisch, Sterling Public Schools Cynthia Huff, Wood River Rural School Jeffery Hoesing, Mullen Public Schools 25 Years (Joined in 1988) Jay Bellar, Battle Creek Public Schools Dan Hoesing, Alliance Public Schools Donald Graff, Twin River Public Schools Ronald Wymore, Pleasanton Public Schools Daniel Fehringer, Winnebago Public Schools Patrick Nauroth, South Sioux City Community Schools Rex Pfeil, Blair Community Schools Larry Weaver, Arapahoe Public Schools Tangela Sylvester, Lewis & Clark Elementary School

20 Years (Joined in 1993) 2012-2013 NASA Awards Stephen Sexton, Fremont Public Schools Honor Awards Michael Sieh, Stanton Community Schools Region I – John Lopez, Presented Posthumous, Beatrice Henry Eggert, Thedford Public Schools Public Schools Region II – Rick Black, Papillion-LaVista Public Schools 15 Years (Joined in 1998) Region III – William McAllister, West Holt Public Schools Casper Ningen, Hemingford Public Schools Region IV – John Grinde, Cozad Public Schools Vernon Fisher, South Sioux City Community Schools Region V – Jamie Isom, Valentine Community Schools

WINTER 2013 NCSA TODAY 7 AFFILIATE LEADERSHIP Educating the Citizens of Tomorrow BY DR. CHRIS STOGDILL, President, NSASSP, Principal, Gerald Otte Blair Middle School

othing is more important to this country Education is the vehicle that moves this process than the transformation of children into ed - along. We educate everyone and allow him or her to have Nucated, productive citizens. It is the study the opportunity to explore their interests and decide of the history of education, which helps us understand where they fit in society. As educators, we strive to cre - the needs for the future. It provides an understanding ate moments of authentic learning for our students. of change and how the “past causes the present, and so Problem solving skills are vital for all students. The the future.” The founding fathers of this country based comprehension of material allows the student to apply it their education decisions in part on ideas that were used to solve a problem. A community needs a variety of peo - to form the country. Many philosophies emerged over ple to help it function. time, but the underlying current was to provide an edu - In the movie Dead Poets’ Society, Robin Williams por - cational experience that allowed students the equal op - trayed a high school English teacher who encourages stu - portunity to learn. dents to become independent thinkers and challenges From this early education philosophy evolved the idea what they know. The greatest attribute to Williams’s Stogdill of common core values. The goal of a community was to character is the passion for knowledge and commitment have core values and an organized system in which to to the way he believes life should be lived. Dead Poets’ pass these values on to the young members of the same Society is a movie that stirs emotions in your heart for community. those of us that feel passion for our profession. The story Although no provision was made for education in the is more than the final outcome, but is the journey to get Constitution, the institution was in the minds of the there and conquering adversity along the way. It reveals founding fathers as they worked to form a new country. a powerful message that we need to examine things in a Who was to be educated? What did citizens need to be different light; it is passion and striving for excellence productive? How best to teach these students who were that matters most. citizens of tomorrow? Thomas Jefferson believed in ed - Education is not a cookie-cutter institution. We need ucational opportunity for all citizens and that no society to challenge and inspire our students to be the creative is safe without an educated population. His educational and innovative thinkers of tomorrow. I philosophy centered on the concept of literacy. He fur - ther believed that it was critical to the development of a new country to provide a free education while looking for “new blood” for the development of a new society and its ideals. New innovations and social issues have made it nec - essary to rethink and adjust those philosophies without losing the fundamental ideals. Technology has changed the face of education. The evolution of the information age has allowed material to be real-life experiences with commentary and interpretations available the moment it takes place.

8 NCSA TODAY WINTER 2013 AFFILIATE LEADERSHIP The Principal’s Office BY ANN JABLONSKI, President, NAESP, Principal, Kooser Elementary School, Lincoln

everal weeks ago an upset mother confronted me with stakeholders stray from what is most important: for “humiliating” her child when I simply met students and their learning. When working with students Swith him in my office. The situation was the re - we must emphasize what we expect, the impact of them sult of her fourth grade son repeatedly not turning in his not doing their work or how their behavior is getting in assignments. This visit to the principal’s office resulted the way of their learning, always coming back to our vi - in a pleasant, productive conversation. Plans were made sion for them. Too often we do the right thing, holding to ensure that quality homework would be turned in on others accountable for quality work, good attendance, time, and I acknowledged how capable he was as a stu - acceptable behavior, but fail to make the connection to dent in fulfilling his school obligations. I wanted to ask the bottom line: learning. When others see that our ac - this mother, “Hey, don’t you know I am a teacher and an tions are aligned with our strong beliefs they will better instructional leader who truly cares that all students are understand us and come to appreciate the integrity with successful and follows through to ensure students are on which we do our work. the right path?” It wouldn’t have mattered; this student Most perception problems with the principal’s posi - Jablonski went to the office and the negative connotations of this tion are unavoidable thanks to authors like Roald Dahl. were too much for the mother to handle. But there is no better way to reinvent who we truly are Just this week as I was returning to my office, a than by getting to know others and strengthening our re - kindergartener, who had been dropped off by his teacher, lationships with them. We must recognize that every was waiting to see me. Realizing that I was about to face-to-face interaction is an opportunity to reach out reteach a school-wide expectation, I invited him to join and positively connect, be it parents or students. We me in my office. He did not budge and began to cry, must be genuine, show care, and demonstrate that we pointing to my office and yelling that he did not want to have their best interests at heart in all situations. What go in there. When I asked why, he responded that he matters most to others is how you treat them and we would never get to leave. I wanted to tell him that this must make every encounter count. Know that you cannot wasn’t the Hotel California, but instead assured him that be of influence if you do not first have a positive con - I only wanted to help him make good choices and that nection. he would in fact be able to return to his classroom. As long as I am a principal I will expect to hear the As I reflect on such incidents I realize that there line, “I told my kid that he better stay out of your of - clearly is a perception problem with the principal’s office fice.” I may go along with their attempt at humor, but and the work we actually do. We are all aware of the most inside I know they most likely mean it. Despite the mis - common perception: going to the office is synonymous conceptions, I will continue to use the principal’s office with being in trouble. While we see ourselves as in - as my classroom and the place I can make a difference structional leaders, others may still see us as the au - one person at a time. I thoritarian who was put in an office to primarily enforce the rules. In this age of accountability we all know this could not be further from the truth. I believe there are things we can do to effectively communicate to our stakeholders the important role we play as school leaders and dispel any misconceptions around our position and the principal’s office. Foremost, we must clearly articulate our vision, our beliefs, and what we stand for. This is done when our everyday ac - tions consistently match our principles as we demon - strate that we are here for students and that their learning is paramount. We cannot let our conversations

WINTER 2013 NCSA TODAY 9 HEALTHCARE InsurerTax Affects EHA Rates BY GREG LONG, EHA Field Representative

t the October 16th, 2012 Educators Health 2.5 percent in subsequent years. Since only eight months Alliance (EHA) Board of Directors meeting, of the 2013-14 EHA year is in 2014, the impact on our Athe EHA addressed with Blue Cross Blue rates for this period will be approximately 1.5 percent. It Shield of Nebraska the annual renewal of rates and ben - is anticipated the EHA premiums will have the higher tax efits for the 2013-2014 school year. The challenges fac - amount in years after 2014. ing the EHA in addressing the renewal were numerous, as Currently, there are two bills in Congress that deal health care has changed since the passing of the Af - with the Excise Tax and its repeal. The Senate’s bill, S. fordable Care Act. This year’s rate increase has been af - 1880 was introduced by Senator John Barrasso of fected by multiple factors including health care Wyoming, Senator Orrin Hatch of Utah, and Senator legislation, inflation trends on health care premiums, and the EHA membership health care claims ex - perience. Long One regulation that will soon affect health insurance cost is the Insurer Tax that begins in 2014, which imposes an aggregate an - nual tax apportioned among health insurers of “United States health risks” based on relative market share. “United States health risks” mean the health risk of any individual who is a U.S. cit - Olympia Snowe of Maine. There are currently 25 cospon - izen, a resident of the U.S. [IRC § 7701(b)(1)(A)], or lo - sors, including Senator Mike Johanns of Nebraska. Sen - cated in the U.S. as to the period this individual is ator Johanns stated to the EHA, “Studies have shown located in the U.S. Insurers required to pay the tax are that this tax is likely to be handed down to consumers those providing health insurance during the calendar in the form of higher insurance premiums. That’s why I year in which the tax is due. joined 25 of my colleagues during the last Congress to This new tax will be passed down from the health in - sponsor a bill to repeal the health insurance tax. Now is surers to the consumer through premium increases. The not the time to further burden the American people with Oliver Wyman Group, an actuarial consulting firm, esti - higher taxes and skyrocketing premiums, and I will con - mates a total increase in family health premiums in the tinue to push for policies that put more money back in large group market of approximately $7,200 over a ten- the pockets of our families and small businesses.” year period beginning in 2014 and lasting through 2024. Representative Charles Boustany of Louisiana, in the The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) United States House of Representatives, sponsored H.R. estimates that the tax will increase the cost of family 1370, which currently has 226 cosponsors and has been coverage by nearly $5,000 by 2020. referred to the Subcommittee on Health. I Unfortunately, the EHA is not immune to the new tax and its effect on our rates. Nationally, the annual tax burden shared by health insurers will begin as an $8 bil - lion tax starting in 2014 and will grow to $14.3 billion, by 2018. As estimated by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Ne - braska, the Insurer Tax will require EHA premiums to in - crease by 1.9 percent in 2014 and grow to approximately

10 NCSA TODAY WINTER 2013 NCSA REPORT Legislative Session Begins!!! BY DR. MIKE DULANEY, Executive Director; and DR. DAN ERNST, Associate Executive Director

anuary marked the opening of the 103rd Nebraska for the state and highly value the positive support for Legislature, First Session. The Nebraska Council of education. JSchool Administrators (NCSA) would like to welcome We remind you of a great resource available to you and congratulate the eleven new members that were at our “NCSA Legislative Information” website sworn into office. In addition we wish to extend our ap - (http:// legislative.ncsa.org). We take great pride in pro - preciation to all senators for their dedication and will - viding accurate, useful and timely information to our ingness to participate in the hard work that is required members on important legislative issues. In addition we to create sound and effective policy to govern our state. would also invite you to sign up to receive text alerts on One new member is actually a returning member. Sen - breaking legislative news. Text alerts are currently pro - ator Ernie Chambers of Omaha returns after serving 38 vided via Alert Now. years in the Legislature and leaving as a result of term It is important for NCSA members to have a positive limits. Other new members sworn in were Sens. Kate Bolz and productive relationship with your district’s state sen - of Lincoln; Sue Crawford of Omaha; Al Davis of Hyannis; ator. Please work to help them understand the many com - Dulaney Sara Howard of Omaha; Jerry Johnson of Wahoo; Bill plexities of proposed legislation which in turn will assist Kintner of Papillion; Rick Kolowski of Omaha; John Mu - them in educating our states’ most precious resource— rante of Gretna; Jim Scheer of Norfolk; and Dan Water - children. Your efforts are sincerely appreciated. I meier of Syracuse. We look forward to working with all new senators throughout the session. Senator Greg Adams of York, after serving successfully as the chairperson of the Education Committee and earn - ing the support of his colleagues was uncontested to be - come the Speaker of the Legislature. NCSA has worked Ernst closely with Senator Adams and believes he will prove to Bolz Crawford Davis be an outstanding leader for the legislative body. With Senator Adams’ ascent to the position of Speaker of the Legislature, Senator Kate Sullivan of Cedar Rapids was elected to chair the Education Committee. It is our be - lief that Senator Sullivan, with her prior experience on the Education Committee and a true commitment to ed - ucation and the students of Nebraska, will perform ad - Howard Johnson Kintner mirably in her new role. Senator Sullivan is noted for her willingness to listen and has been instrumental in craft - ing sound education policy in recent years. We look for - ward to her leadership. We also wish to acknowledge our appreciation to Gov - ernor Dave Heineman for his commitment to education as noted in his “State of the State” address. His budget includes a proposed increase in state aid to education Kolowski Murante (TEEOSA) in the amount of $895 million for the next fis - cal year and to $939 million for the following year of the biennial budget. In addition, Governor Heineman is pro - posing a five percent increase in special education fund - ing in each of the next two years. We are certainly understanding of the many requests and requirements that must be considered in the development of a budget Scheer Watermeier

WINTER 2013 NCSA TODAY 11 AFFILIATE AWARDS Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals Announces 2012 Distinguished Service Award

he Nebraska State Association of Secondary Dr. Marilyn S. Moore, retired Lincoln Public Schools School Principals is proud to recognize Dr. Mike Associate Superintendent, states: “You can read Dr. Wort - TWortman, Principal at Lincoln High School, as man’s résumé and see all the service he has provided to the Distinguished Service Award winner for 2012. NSASSP, the profession, and the community. … What the Dr. Mike Wortman has been selected as the Nebraska resumé doesn’t show you is the zeal, the passion, the State Association of Secondary School Principals recipi - commitment, and the energy that Dr. Wortman brings to ent of the Distinguished Service Award. Dr. Wortman re - each task, each committee, each office, and each op - ceived his education from the University of Nebraska at portunity.” Lincoln where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Math Patricia A. Koch Johns, retired teacher, Lincoln High Education ’70, a Masters of Science in Educational Ad - School, noted: “In my personal work with Dr. Wortman, ministration ’74, and an Educational Doctorate in Ad - I have experienced a person who leads with kindness and Wortman ministration, Curriculum, and Instruction ‘80. Dr. that same loyalty he demonstrates in other facets of his Wortman is currently in his 18th year as the Principal at career. He is willing to allow others to use their personal Lincoln High School. He previously served as the High talents and makes every effort to positively support his School Principal for Hutchinson (KS) High School from students, his parents, his teachers, and the staff he 1980-1995, Principal for Valley (NE) Jr-Sr High School leads.” from 1975-1980, Director of High School Equivalency Cheyanna Kempel, a senior at Lincoln High School, Program in Lincoln, NE, and as a Teacher at Lexington commented: “Dr. Wortman is highly respected by the stu - (NE) St. Ann’s High School from 1970-1973. dents and staff of Lincoln High. …he does a quality job Dr. Wortman has a long and distinguished list of con - of getting to know many of his students and their inter - tributions made to many state and national professional ests. He genuinely cares about building relationships organizations and has held several community leader - within the school and furthering those relationships out - ship positions. Most recently serving as the NSASSP State side of Lincoln High.” I Coordinator from 2004-2012. Dr. Wortman has served as State President for the Kansas Association of Secondary Schools Principals Association (1988), a NASSP National Convention Presenter (1981), KASSP State Coordinator (1990-1995), and as a member of the Nebraska delega - tion to visit Washington, DC (2004-2012). Dr. Wortman has served in his community as President of Rotary (2012-2013), as a Board member of the Lincoln Public Schools Foundation and Nebraska Human Resources In - stitute. Dr. Wortman has been selected as the KASSP: Kansas Principal of the Year in 1989 and the NSASSP: Nebraska Principal of the Year in 2008.

12 NCSA TODAY WINTER 2013 AFFILIATE AWARDS Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals Announces New Principal of theYear

he Nebraska State Association of Secondary articulate, and a person of integrity. His understanding School Principals has selected Ross Ricenbaw of curriculum, assessment, and instruction allows him to Tas the 2012 New Principal of the Year. This not only run a school efficiently and effectively but also award is presented annually to a Principal who has improve it.” demonstrated outstanding leadership in their school, East Butler parent and School Foundation Board Pres - their region and at the state level. The winner will have ident Darell P. Aerts writes, “Mr. Ricenbaw was instru - demonstrated their enthusiasm for the Principalship by mental in doing the groundwork and providing guidance support from students, parents, teachers and peers. to the Foundation when establishing a $5,000 teacher Ross Ricenbaw was selected as the NSASSP Outstand - grant given to a staff member or members each year…he ing New Principal for 2012. Mr. Ricenbaw has been the has gone above and beyond as a Principal in our school.” Principal at East Butler Public Schools since 2010. Dur - Ross Ricenbaw is a graduate of Grinnell College (Bach - Ricenbaw ing his tenure at East Butler, Mr. Ricenbaw initiated the elors of Arts in Mathematics Education ’02) and Doane district in moving towards becoming accredited through College (Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction AdvancED, implemented a new teacher evaluation pol - ‘05). Mr. Ricenbaw also graduated from Wayne State’s icy, served as chair for the Nebraska Frameworks external Leadership Program in 2010. Ross served as CADRE As - visit to Blue Hill Public Schools, and is currently imple - sociate for Ralston Public Schools in 2009-2010 after a menting the initial phase of a high school 1:1 computer successful tenure as a math teacher and coach from initiative. 2003-2009. Mr. Ricenbaw is a member of the Nebraska Jim Koontz, Superintendent of East Butler Public State Association of Secondary School Principals, the Ne - Schools, praised Mr. Ricenbaw, noting, “Mr. Ricenbaw’s braska Council of School Administrators, and the National leadership style includes being a consensus builder and Association of Secondary School Principals. I a team player. He likes to utilize the strengths of others by motivating them and giving them empowerment when that is appropriate. He has a vision for the future while keeping a close eye on the present.” Marty Gilson, Counselor at East Butler Public Schools, states, “Mr. Ricenbaw possesses qualities that make him an effective and competent leader. Ross is intelligent,

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WINTER 2013 NCSA TODAY 13 AFFILIATE AWARDS Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals Announces 2013 Assistant Principal of theYear Award Winner

rian Daniell has been recognized by the Ne - much bigger role than just an assistant principal. … braska State Secondary School Principals as Brian has implemented character seminars that allow Bthe 2013 Assistant Principal of the Year. He students to have conversation with peers about charter has served as Assistant Principal at Waverly since 2010 issues students face everyday…they are focused, mean - and also taught at Boys Town High School from 2001 to ingful, and leave a lasting impact on our students.” 2010. Mr. Daniell is a graduate of Peru State College (BS Lisa J. Graham, Waverly High School English Teacher in Secondary Special Education) and Doane College (MA notes: “Mr. Daniell has made the school better by im - in 7-12 Educational Leadership). proving the climate and culture of learning. His support Mr. Daniell is a member of the Nebraska State Associ - of staff is evidenced by his seemingly ubiquitous pres - ation of Secondary School Principals, the Nebraska Coun - ence. He is sincerely and relentlessly positive.” cil of School Administrators, and the National Kelly Verkamp, a parent of a Waverly High School jun - Daniell Association of Secondary School Principals. Locally, Mr. ior states: “Brian has an innate ability to generate pos - Daniell has served as an adult Sunday school teacher, itivity in others—he does his best to get students and youth baseball and football coach, and reading mentor. staff to look at all situations for a perspective of growth. Mr. Daniell was recognized as the 2012 NSASSP Region I Because of this, students respect him because they truly Assistant Principal of the Year. know that he wants them to succeed despite their set - Mr. Ryan Ricenbaw, Principal at Waverly High School backs. … He fully believes in each of our students’ abil - states: “Mr. Daniell is focused on making a difference. ities to make a positive change in their behavior.” I His focus on the ‘school experience’ allows him to play a

NSASSP Longevity Awards

25 Years (Joined in 1988) 15 Years (Joined in 1998) Stanley Turner – Bennington Secondary School David Barrett – Adams Central Public Schools Gerald Reinsch – Schuyler Middle School Bruce Parish – Hyannis Area Schools Thomas McGuire – South Sioux City Middle School 20 Years (Joined in 1993) Matthew Brandl – Morton Middle School Brent Williamson – Harvard Public Schools Michael Tomjack – Elkhorn Middle School Michelle Rinas – Ponca Public Schools John Jarosh – Beatrice High School Victor Young – Wilcox-Hildreth Public Schools Angela Leifeld – Columbus High School Linda Hix – Lincoln Public Schools Jerome Smith – McCook Senior High School Jacquelyn Kelsay – Johnson-Brock Public Schools Tod Meyer – Milford Elementary School James Rose – Fillmore Central High School Thomas Kiburz – Thayer Central Community Schools Randall Schlueter – Beatrice Middle School James Larson – Papillion-LaVista South High School David Bottrell – Palmyra Jr-Sr High School

14 NCSA TODAY WINTER 2013 PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT

Education and Poverty in Nebraska— What Increasing Poverty Means in Nebraska Classrooms BY TED STILWILL, CEO, Learning Community of Douglas and Sarpy Counties

hat’s the biggest challenge in the future for icy makers or even our own constituents come to grips Nebraska education? It’s not NCLB or Char - with exactly what these economic and demographic Wter Schools. It’s poverty, particularly the changes mean for families and for education in Nebraska. deep poverty that robs the very young of the quality care If we are going to advocate well for our kids, we need and nurturance that supports healthy cognitive and emo - to explain that families living in extreme poverty, are tional development. The research is clearly telling us that going to have children in need of great support. We this is a significant obstacle to academic success when must prepare and plan, helping our policy makers and children enter school. supporters understand that we must act early or pay a much higher price later on. Data Speaks on Poverty For these families, chronic unemployment, exposure Stilwill We’ve all heard the national debate about the wage to violence or abuse, and, of course, much less access to gap with the incomes of the now famous “1 percent” quality childcare, are common. And remember, the lack growing 134 percent while low wage earners barely of quality childcare during the critical first and second squeaked out a raise. Take a look at this snapshot and year of a child’s life, takes a toll on a child’s elementary you’ll see Nebraska is part of these changing demo - learning ability. graphics. Researchers know these mothers are often depressed Family poverty levels have gone up more than 30 per - and isolated. This hopelessness interferes with healthy cent in the last ten year to 12.7 percent, with more than brain development in newborns and infants. one in eight families living in poverty. See Harvard Center for the Developing Child website: It’s even higher for Hispanic families—one in four http://developingchild.harvard.edu/topics/science_of_ families live in poverty. early_childhood/. Additionally, 30 percent of Nebraska’s five-year-olds are now Hispanic. If we want state policy leaders and New Classroom Dynamics our constituents to understand the challenges of these What does that mean for education? It means that changing demographics, we need to get comfortable with many Nebraska Kindergarten teachers have a very chal - the latest data and talk about it. lenging range of student experience and language abil - ity to accommodate. Some five-year-olds enter Family poverty Nebraska Poverty 2000 to 2011 Kindergarten able to read every book in the school li - levels have gone • Free and reduced price lunch partic - brary and other five-year-olds can barely speak a three- ipation is up 44 percent over the word sentence. In these circumstances, it is unrealistic up more than 30 last ten years. Eligible families have for a single teacher, even with an associate, to person - percent in the incomes of $680 per week or less. alize an educational program that will help every stu - • Families in extreme poverty in - dent grow to his or her full potential. last ten year to creased 31 percent. Those families Nationally, and in Nebraska, we have seen what hap - 12.7 percent, with have incomes of $367 per week or pens when students start school lagging behind their less, much less than the families peers. Statistically, in spite of our best efforts, they tend more than one in qualifying for reduced price lunch. to fall farther behind every year. That means increased eight families *all figures 2011 Census Bureau Special Education costs, more high school dropouts, living in poverty. fewer students qualifying for affordable community col - As education leaders, most of us leges and a low-wage future. Research shows it also haven’t done enough to help state pol - (continued on page 16)

WINTER 2013 NCSA TODAY 15 PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT

What Increasing Poverty Means in Nebraska Classrooms (continued from page 16) means a 70 percent chance of arrests for violent crime. The in - 3. Partner with Parents. creased economic costs are staggering. We need to find ways We are all learning If the number of students in need of significant extra help is to engage and partner only one or two, then perhaps a good teacher can give all the with parents in more more about the kids in a classroom what they need. Even the most talented, com - substantial ways. Ed - challenges that real mitted teachers have limits in meeting the needs of all their kids. ucare Centers learned When the proportion of high poverty students becomes too great, how and now parents poverty brings to classrooms hit a tipping point. In these schools, the traditional are truly a part of their education, but K-6 model simply doesn’t work anymore. child’s education. collectively we can What Now? 4. Share Student Data. accelerate our We have been working very hard, but we have to recognize We can better advo - success. Why not find that the game has changed in these schools. We must re-design cate for student needs our schools which have high degrees of deep poverty. We can with policy makers new ways to share learn from the Educare programs that have operated in North and when we openly share our best strategies South Omaha for the last several years. With exactly the students our success or failure. and families that I have been describing, and family incomes Evidence-based strate - to meet the urgent under the poverty line, Educare has shown tremendous positive gies take calculated educational needs of impact. In just two years, working with children and their fami - trial and error. We lies, students followed from grades three to seven, are reading need to track what’s these children and above the state average score for NeSA Reading. working and what’s our communities? Lessons from Educare and the research suggest several av - not. And we need data enues: to help policy makers see trend lines and progress. 1. Quality early childhood care and education is the single best way to improve student success in elementary school. The re - Data can move us towards the collaboration that will help us search is clear that waiting until age five to help these kids is deliver the greatest student benefit. We can celebrate our suc - no longer a tenable education position. Certainly we will need cesses and together evaluate strategies when they don’t produce even more classes for three- and four-year-olds, but some dis - the student gains we hoped for. tricts have also found ways to reach out to link with private We are all learning more about the challenges that real poverty and in-home childcare providers. School districts need to ac - brings to education, but collectively we can accelerate our suc - tively engage in supporting new policies for healthier birth cess. Why not find new ways to share our best strategies to meet outcomes and better childcare standards. the urgent educational needs of these children and our commu - 2. Expand Family Support. Schools, particularly elementary nities? schools need to develop strong, genuinely collaborative rela - To research poverty data in your school district: If the com - tionships with expert community organizations helping these munity served by your district is large enough for the Census Bu - same families. In high poverty schools, if schools are not in - reau to draw a sample, then you can find out US Census estimates telligently engaging community resources, schools become part for poverty in your district. View the link below. You can increase of the problem. It requires a team effort with a jointly crafted the accuracy by averaging three years of data. I plan, coordinated services and monitoring to make sure the plan is effective for the student and family. A broader school http://www.census.gov/did/www/saipe/data/ role is a big change but may not be as unwieldy as adminis - interactive/#view=SchoolDistricts trators might fear. It often takes one dedicated staff person to effectively manage those relationships and free teachers to teach.

16 NCSA TODAY WINTER 2013 AFFILIATE AWARDS NAESP National Distinguished Principal from Nebraska is Announced

he Nebraska Association of Elementary School community involvement, she seeks it out. She readily Principals is pleased to announce Lisa Wood, understands the importance of stakeholders being in - TPrincipal at LaVista West Elementary School in volved for their sake; AND she recognizes the potential the Papillion-La Vista School District has been named gains for students when they see other adults involved the 2012 National Distinguished Principal from Nebraska. in school life. Lisa has been Principal at La Vista West for the previous Lisa’s leadership has been evident during her tenure eight years, having assumed that position after serving as a Principal. She has performed the role of mentor to in the same capacity at St. Paul Elementary School for new and aspiring administrators and teachers in the Dis - eight years. trict and is a long-time member of NAESP and NCSA. She During her time as Principal at La Vista West, Lisa has is also locally active in her community through involve - created a climate within her school community that en - ment with the Optimist Club and Reach for Success Men - sures a focus on their mission of high achievement for all tor Program. Wood students. Her efforts have extended beyond the school Mrs. Wood will be officially recognized at a celebra - walls, seeking legitimate input and active involvement tion in La Vista on a date yet to be determined. She’ll from parents in the educational process. Success has represent Nebraska in Washington, DC in the Fall of 2013. been achieved as evidenced by the 97 percent atten - NAESP is extremely proud to have Lisa represent our dance at Parent/Teacher Conferences. In addition, Lisa organization as NDP for 2012. She is very deserving of has been a driving force behind a successful summer this recognition and will serve our profession well dur - school for children throughout the District. This summer ing her year of tenure as the reigning NDP from Nebraska. school served over 300 students from 14 buildings this Congratulations, Lisa! I past summer, providing added opportunity for children to improve their reading skills. According to a parent in the district, “Mrs. Wood works to build relationships with the families and teaches her staff ways to do the same. … I am grateful every day to have her in the lives of my children and my - self.” A teacher in her building states: “Mrs. Wood has the unique ability to bring material resources and human re - sources together to do what is best for students. When I think of someone who exhibits leadership skills and knowledge, I think of Mrs. Wood.” Dr. Rick Black, Superintendent at Papillion-La Vista Schools, writes: “She has molded a diverse community into a cohesive, supportive team focused upon what is best for students. Lisa not only welcomes parent and

WINTER 2013 NCSA TODAY 17 AFFILIATE AWARDS NAESP Outstanding New Principal of theYear eff Ellsworth, Principal of Chapman School in the lem solver, and very approachable for students, parents, Grand Island Northwest School District, has been and teachers. He is supportive of his staff and always Jnamed the Nebraska Association of Elementary has students’ best interests in mind.” School Principals Outstanding New Principal for Mr. Ellsworth is an active member of the Nebraska As - 2012-2013. sociation of Elementary School Principals. He is currently Ellsworth is described as dedicated to his students the NAESP Federal Relations Representative and travels and a true difference maker in the lives of students, to Washington, DC regularly, carrying to the National staff, and parents. He has worked hard to improve aca - level our message about what works best for students. demic success for all through implementation of noon Mr. Ellsworth is also a member of the Association for Su - Ellsworth hour study halls, an after-school homework program and pervision and Curriculum Development and the Nebraska acquisition/integration of technology in the classrooms. Council of School Administrators. He was recognized in His skills include being a leader, a listener, a supporter, early December at the Joint Principal’s Conference in and a team player. Jeff is also known for his fun-loving Kearney. Congratulations, Jeff! I personality, positive attitude, and work ethic, all of which makes working in his building a rewarding expe - rience. A fifth-grade teacher at Chapman School, states: “I have found Mr. Ellsworth to be a good listener, a prob -

NAESP Longevity Awards

25 Years (Joined in 1988) 15 Years (Joined in 1998, continued) Harold Jochem – Kearney Public School Bradley Sullivan – Bryan Elementary School Elizabeth Replogle – Paddock Lane School Sondra Irish – Loveland Elementary School Scott Dodson – Woodland Park Elementary School Maureen Oman – Engleman Elementary School Wesley Reed – Springfield Elementary School Wendy Bonaiuto – Randolph Elementary School Vicki Schulenberg – Rudolph Fredstrom Elementary 20 Years (Joined in 1993) Mary Derby – Eisenhower Elementary School Sarah Williams – Ainsworth Elementary School Tim Kwapnioski – Bel Air Elementary School Mary Yilk – Doniphan Elementary School Ronald Oltman – Birchcrest Elementary School Jeffery Bartels – Lost Creek Elementary School Troy Juracek – Rumsey Station Elementary Kirk Kuxhausen – Mitchell Elementary School 15 Years (Joined in 1998) Charlotte Browning – Westmoor Elementary Midge Mougey – North Platte Public Schools Michael Janssen – Blair Arbor Park Middle School Jill Clevenger – Kenwood Elementary School Susan Anglemyer – Upchurch Elementary School Alberta Nelson – Edison Elementary School Ann Jablonski – Kooser Elementary School

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Dave RaymondRayyymomond andd DDennyennny VaVann Horn TRANE K-12K-K-12 PPerformanceerformance CContractingonttractinracting PhonPhone:e:: 402402-331-7111(office)-331-7111(officffice) 40402-452-7762(c)2-452-77762(cc)) 402-450-0956(c)402-4500-0956(c) EE-E-Mail:-Mail: [email protected]@trraneane oror [email protected]@gmaiill.ccom CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FEBRUARY 15 NASES Region V 9:00 am Community Center Bridgeport 28 NASES Region III 9:00 am Lifelong Learning Center Norfolk

MARCH 6 NSASSP Region I 5:30 pm Seward Country Club Seward 13 NASA Region IV 10:00 am ESU #10 Kearney 13 NAESP Region III 2:00 pm Lifelong Learning Center Norfolk 13 NSASSP Region II 2:00 pm TBD Papillion 14 NSASSP Region III 2:00 pm NECC Norfolk 15 NASES Region II 8:30 am ESU #3 La V ista 19 NAESP Region V 9:00 am WNCC Sidney 19 NSASSP Region V 9:00 am WNCC Sidney 21-22 NASES Spring Conference 8:30 am Younes Conference Center Kearney 27 NASA Region III 9:00 am Lifelong Learning Center Norfolk 29 NASES Region III 9:00 am Lifelong Learning Center Norfolk

APRIL 2 NASA Region V 1:00 pm Quality Inn & Conv Center Ogallala 9 NAESP Executive Board 9:00 am NCSA Offices Lincoln 9 NSASSP Executive Board 4:00 pm TBD Lincoln 10 NCSA Executive Board 9:00 am NCSA Lincoln 17 NSASSP Region IV 2:30 pm ESU #10 Kearney 19 NASES Region II 8:30 am Plattsmouth Public Schools Plattsmouth 19 NASES Region IV 9:00 am ESU #10 Kearney 23 NAESP Region IV 12:00 pm Bernardos Hastings 24 NSASSP Region I 5:30 pm Evening w/ Friends Milligan 24 NSASSP Region II 5:00 pm TBD Omaha 30 NASES Region III 9:00 am Lifelong Learning Center Norfolk 30 NASES Region V 8:00 am Community Center Bridgeport

National Convention Dates ASBO – October 25-28, 2013 – Boston, MA ASBO – September 19-22, 2014 – Kissimmee, FL AASA – February 21-23, 2013 – Los Angeles, CA AASA – February 13-15, 2014 – Nashville, TN NASSP – February 28-March 2, 2013 – National Harbor, MD NAESP – July 11-13, 2013 – Baltimore, MD

20 NCSA TODAY WINTER 2013 Gold Sponsorships

Ameritas DLR Group National Insurance Marc Munford, Bruce Lefler, Scott Keene Pat Phelan, Whitney Wombacher Steve Ott 440 Regency Parkway Drive, Ste 222 400 Essex Court | Omaha, NE 68114 9202 W. Dodge Rd., Ste 302 Omaha, NE 68114 402-393-4100 Omaha, NE 68114 800-700-2362 [email protected] 800-597-2341 [email protected] www.dlrgroup.com [email protected] www.ameritas.com www.nis-sif.com ESUCC John Baylor Test Prep Matt Blomstedt NLAF John Baylor 455 S. 11th Street | Lincoln, NE 68508 Barry Ballou P.O. Box 30792 | Lincoln, NE 68503 402-499-6756 455 S. 11th St. | Lincoln, NE 68508 402-475-7737 [email protected] 402-705-0350 [email protected] [email protected] www.johnbaylortestprep.com Horace Mann www.nlafpool.org Cindy Dornbush Boyd Jones Construction 10612 Monroe Street, #4 Pickering Creative Group George Schuler Omaha, NE 68127 Kasey Matoush 333 South 9th Street | Lincoln, NE 68508 402-680-9382 8001 South 13th Street 402-318-4794 [email protected] Lincoln, NE 68512 [email protected] www.horacemann.com 402-680-9382 [email protected] D.A. Davidson & Co. Humanex Ventures www.pickeringcreative.com Dan Smith, Paul Grieger, Katie Shanahan Cody Wicklham, Andy Forney 2900 S. 70th St., Park One, Ste 100 TRANE 1111 N. 102nd Ct., Ste 300 Lincoln, NE 58506 Danny Szegda, Dave Raymond Omaha, NE 68114 402-486-1102 5720 S. 77th St. | Ralston, NE 68127 402-392-7986 [email protected] 402-935-9040 [email protected] www.humanexventures.com [email protected] www.davidsoncompanies.com/ficm www.trane.com/omaha Tyco Integrated Security Bill Dynek Silver Sponsorships 8719 S. 135th Street, Ste. 300 Omaha, NE 68138 Awards Unlimited Nebraska Public Agency 402-935-5449 Larry King Investment Trust [email protected] 1935 O Street | Lincoln, NE 68510 Becky Ferguson PO Box 82529 | Lincoln, NE 68501 402-474-0815 Wells Fargo [email protected] 402-323-1334 Jenni Christiansen www.awardsunlimited.com [email protected] www.npait.com 1248 O Street | Lincoln, NE 68508 First National Capital Market 402-434-6188 Craig Jones Siemens [email protected] 1620 Dodge Street, Suite 1104 John Hay www.wellsfargo.com Omaha, NE 68197 8066 Flint Street | Lenexa, KS 66214 402-598-1218 913-905-6723 [email protected] [email protected] usa.siemens.com Jostens Don Bartholomew 309 S. 8th Street Broken Bow, NE 68822 Bronze Sponsorships 308-872-5055 Dream Box Learning Benchmark 4 Excellence [email protected] Jeff Enough Rick Imig 305 108th Ave., NE | Bellevue, WA 98004 PO Box 29646 | Austin, TX 78755 336-236-5560 512-215-0928 [email protected] [email protected] www.dreambox.com www.benchmark4excellence.org PRSRT STD. U. S. POSTAGE PAID LINCOLN, NE PERMIT NO. 951 Nebraska Council of School Administrators

455 So. 11th Street, Suite A • Lincoln, NE 68508-2105

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Experience the New NASSP Conference

Redefi ned and Refocused s %NGAGING AND INTERACTIVE SESSIONS s !DVANCED CUTTING EDGE CONTENT FROM THOUGHT LEADERS IN EDUCATION s )N DEPTH EXCHANGES FOR MEANINGFUL LEARNING s 3TRATEGIES TO EMPOWER YOUR STUDENTS TO BE COLLEGE AND CAREER READY

National Harbor, MD Register today at February 28–March 2, 2013 www.nasspconference.org

National Association of Secondary School Principals