NJASA / NJAPSA Spring Leadership Conference 2023
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NJASA / NJAPSA SPRING LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
Lifting Leadership...Knowledge, Relationships and Empowerment
CAESARS ATLANTIC CITY
MAY 17-19, 2023
CONFERENCE AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2023
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Location: 2nd Floor – Centurion Tower
Palladium Ballroom Registration Desk
11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Location: Tiberius
New Jersey Association of Pupil Services Administrators Meeting
(RSVP in advance required for attendance)
Co-Sponsored by Scarinci Hollenbeck
GENERAL SESSION
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Location: Palladium Ballroom C
Special Education Administrator of the Year Award
Sponsored by Frontline Education
Co-Sponsored by NJASA and NJAPSA
Keynote Speaker: David Flink
As Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer of Eye to Eye, David Flink is an author and social movement leader on the front lines of the learning rights movement. He imagines a world where one day all learners will be seen, heard, and valued. David founded Eye to Eye at Brown University where he received bachelors’ degrees with honors in both education and psychology. David also holds a master's degree in disability studies in education from Columbia University. Most recently, David was named a Top 10 2021 CNN Hero for his work to support students with learning disabilities.
The Keynote Speaker Program is sponsored exclusively by Frontline Education
Exhibitor Registration and Set-up
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: 2nd Floor – Centurion Tower
Palladium Ballroom Registration Desk
NJASA “Open” Executive Committee Meeting
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Location: Apollo/Zeus
Group Sessions
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Session 1
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Location: Spartacus
TA to Teachers- Fostering Future Educators
This session highlights the TA to Teachers Program that is hosted in partnership between the Morris-Union Jointure Commission and Ramapo College of New Jersey. This ground-breaking program allows teaching assistants (instructional aides) to pursue their teaching certification and subsequent MA in Special Education while remaining employed by their district and leveraging their professional assignments as credit toward their degree completion. Hosted by the MUJC and accredited by RCNJ, this program is transforming the path for TAs by providing them with an affordable, attainable, accessible road to certification.
Standards 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9
Presenters:
Evan Abramson
Director of Technology and Innovation
Morris-Union Jointure Commission
Denise Smallacomb
Assistant Superintendent
Morris-Union Jointure Commission
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Session 2
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Location: Palladium Ballroom C
The Future is Neurodivergent: Rebuilding a Stronger Classroom Experience for Neurodivergent Youth
We have lived through one of the most trying times in recent memory through a global pandemic. For students who learn differently or identify as neurodivergent, many had already experienced an educational pandemic, being left on the sidelines of their education through no fault of their own. But the pandemic taught us that we can change and in fact life demands it. Looking to solutions that existed prior to the pandemic that were deployed as necessities during the pandemic, we come together to imagine a future that is more inclusive for all learners. How can we build stronger and more equitable learning environments? How can we create a world where our young people know what they need and how to ask for it and the adults and educators around them can say yes to how their brains are wired? Together we will explore what is possible for a future that is neurodivergent.
Presenter:
David Flink
Keynote Speaker
Session 3
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Location: Romulus
Starfish and Horseshoe Crabs-Meeting the Needs of the Most Challenging Students
Schools are faced with meeting the diverse academic, social, emotional, behavioral, and psychological needs of students, often times with limited resources. Post Pandemic, the challenge of helping students achieve scholastic and personal success has become increasingly more difficult. The number of students presenting with significant behavioral and mental health needs is astounding. This presentation will offer participants an “outside the box” approach to creating student centered programming to meet the needs of the most challenging populations. Specific attention will be given to creating a support system that serves to keep students in district via the establishment of a non-traditional program that emphasizes relationships, accountability, responsibility, and a strengths-based approach to teaching and learning.
Standards 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10
Presenters:
David Damaschke
Supervisor of School Counseling
Somerville Public Schools
Scott Hade
Principal Somerville Middle School/MAPS Program
Somerville Public Schools
Dr. Tanya McDonald
Director of Special Services
Somerville Public Schools
Session 4
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Location: Tiberius
Update on Everything You Need to Know about HIB (Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying)
A presentation of the latest case decisions and statutory changes for HIB proceedings, including answering questions regarding all aspects of HIB, such as best practices and individual concerns. Q and A session to follow.
Standards 1, 2, 3, 5, 9, 10
Presenter:
John G. Geppert, Jr., Esq.
Partner; Chair, Public and Education Law Groups
Scarinci Hollenbeck LLC
Nathanya G. Simon
Partner; Chair Special Education Law Group
Scarinci Hollenbeck LLC
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
jgeppert@sh-law.com
Session 5
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Location: Neptune
Leading Change in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Engaging and Empowering Stakeholders Through Strategic Planning
The creation of a Strategic Plan can ensure decision-making at all levels; reflects a deep commitment to equity, diversity and belonging; programs support inclusion rather than exclusion; stakeholders are visible in terms of resources and opportunities; and increase access to rigorous learning experiences. Participants will gain an understanding of the steps one district took to operationalize their equity goal and create a sustainable Strategic Plan with long term impact for students, families, and staff.
Standards 1, 3, 8, 10
Presenters:
Jessica Cincotta
Principal of High School South
West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District
Barbara Gould
Director of Counseling, Health, and Wellness
West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District
Susan Totaro
Special Assistant for Strategic Initiatives
West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1aHvovF6IfiqnR9wtRT5UvDVVPyUM0oh2h3JSQyLZUcA/edit?usp=sharing
Session 6
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Location: Mars
How Our District Used the QSAC Process as an Opportunity for Reflection
In this presentation, a group of Central Office Administrators who recently went through the QSAC process during the 2022-23 school year will discuss how their district looked at this time as an opportunity to do a deep dive into reflecting on the practices and procedures of the district. Looking at existing protocols, and aligning to items found in their Strategic Plan, you will hear how QSAC became a roadmap to look at things that worked well, and items which could be done differently and more efficiently moving forward. Furthermore, during this presentation, a template of how the QSAC process was approached will be provided, with time being allotted to discuss how every district can look at how to best approach this process.
Standard 1, 4, 6, 9, 10
Dr. Janet Dudick
Assistant Superintendent of Schools
Long Branch Public Schools
Nicole Esposito
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction
Long Branch Public Schools
Frank Riley
Assistant Superintendent of Leadership and Innovation PreK-12
Long Branch Public Schools
Francisco E. Rodriguez
Superintendent
Long Branch Public Schools
Session 7
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Location: Venus
First Responders: How to Create a Partnership in Order to Provide Youth and Mental Health First Aid
In support of the increased social and emotional needs of students across the nation, the level of mental health knowledge and skills of educators surged. Based on student SEL needs and collected data on staff SEL self-efficacy, our school district partnered with a Counselor Education graduate professor and his certified team to provide district-wide Youth and Mental Health First Aid certification for staff and administration. This presentation will provide insight into identifying a need, establishing a relationship with higher education, and collaborating to provide crucial training to meet our staff on a limited budget.
Standard 5
Dr. Ashley Janosko
Director of School Counseling
Berkeley Heights Public Schools
Marybeth Kopacz
Assistant Superintendent K-5
Berkeley Heights Public Schools
Dr. Melissa Varley
Superintendent
Berkeley Heights Public Schools
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
ajanosko@bhpsnj.org
Session 8
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Location: Jupiter
Building Leadership Capacity and Meeting Initiatives Through Teacher-Led Professional Learning Communities
In light of current shortages and changes in the education field, the importance of staff retention has increased in the past few years. Growing teachers as professionals and building the leadership capacity of your staff through Professional Learning Communities will encourage a feeling of investment, belonging and foster positive school culture. This session will explore how Glen Rock High School’s teacher-led PLC’s are structured to encourage exploration of personal interest as well as professional dialogue around current district initiatives.
Standards 6, 7, 10
Presenter:
Tina Bacolas
High School Assistant Principal
Glen Rock High School/
Glen Rock Public Schools
Session 9
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Location: Octavius
How to Create and Expand an MTSS Framework for Student Mental Health Care in 2023
The data is clear. We are in the midst of a student mental health crisis and never has there been a greater need to expand clinical capacity and provide a full continuum of care to support student mental health within schools. With the myriad challenges to providing equitable access to mental health within the community, schools have become the de facto hub for clinical supports. In this session, Egg Harbor Township and Effective School Solutions, will review the most recent data surrounding the mental health crisis, discuss how to create a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Framework to address mental health challenges, and explore sustainable funding sources to maintain a robust continuum care.
Presenters:
Lily Moss
Assistant Superintendent
Egg Harbor Township School District
Lindsay Foglio
Director of District Partnerships
Effective School Solutions
4:15 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Apollo/Zeus
NJAPSA Executive Board Meeting
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Welcome Reception
Location: The Wild Wild West -From the 2nd Floor in the Centurion Tower, heading toward Bally’s, take the escalator down to this evening’s reception.
THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2023
CONFERENCE/EXHIBITOR REGISTRATION & INFORMATION
7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: 2nd Floor – Centurion Tower
Palladium Ballroom Registration Desk
7:45 am – 8:30 am
Location: Palladium Ballroom A/B (Exhibit Hall)
Continental Breakfast
The exhibit hall will be open from 7:45 am – 5:00 pm. Don't miss this opportunity to network with NJASA's preferred providers of equipment, supplies and services.
GENERAL SESSION
8:40 am – 10:45 am
Location: Palladium Ballroom C
Special Award Presentations will be made honoring:
- NJASA President
- Regional Superintendents of the Year
- Superintendent of the Year
- Distinguished Service
Keynote Speakers: Dr. Salome Thomas-EL with Dr. Joseph Jones and Dr. T.J. Vari
(Sponsored exclusively by McGraw Hill)
Dr. Salome Thomas-EL has been a teacher and principal in Philadelphia, PA and Wilmington, DE since 1987. He is currently the Head of School at Thomas Edison Public Charter School in Wilmington, DE. Thomas-EL received national acclaim as a teacher and chess coach at Vaux Middle School, where his students have gone on to win world recognition as Eight-Time National Chess Champions. Principal EL was a regular contributor on “The Dr. Oz Show” and the author of the best-selling books, I Choose to Stay and The Immortality of Influence (Foreword by Will Smith). The Walt Disney Company optioned the movie rights to I Choose to Stay. Thomas-EL speaks to groups across the country and frequently appears on C-SPAN, CNN, and NPR Radio. He has received the Marcus A. Foster Award as the outstanding School District Administrator in Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania’s distinguished Martin Luther King Award. Reader’s Digest Magazine recognized Principal EL as an “Inspiring American Icon” and he has appeared on GMA and Oprah Radio! And, with Joseph Jones and T.J. Vari, he co-authored Passionate Leadership: Creating a Culture of Success in Every School, Building a Winning Team: The Power of a Magnetic Reputation and the Need to Recruit Top Talent in Every School, and Retention for a Change: Motivate, Inspire, and Energize Your School Culture
Dr. Joseph Jones is the Superintendent of the New Castle County Vocational-Technical School District in Delaware. Joe is a former high school social studies teacher, assistant principal, and principal. As principal, he was named the Delaware Secondary Principal of the Year and during his tenure, Delcastle Technical High School was the first high school to receive the state’s Outstanding Academic Achievement Award. He received his doctorate from the University of Delaware in educational leadership and was awarded the outstanding doctoral student award of his class. Currently, Joe works closely with local and state leaders on student achievement and accountability and has spearheaded an aggressive and successful campaign to ensure student success. Joe is also an adjunct professor, teaching and designing curriculum, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels for various universities. He presents nationally on topics of school leadership and is the co-founder of the leadership development institute, TheSchoolHouse302. Along with T.J. Vari, he co-authored Candid and Compassionate Feedback: Transforming Everyday Practice in Schools.
Dr. T.J. Vari is the Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools and District Operations in the Appoquinimink School District in Delaware. He is a former middle school assistant principal and principal and former high school English teacher and department chair. His master’s degree is in School Leadership and his doctorate is in Innovation and Leadership where he accepted an Award for Academic Excellence given to one doctoral student per graduating class. He holds several honors and distinctions, including his past appointment as President of the Delaware Association for School Administrators, his work with the Delaware Association for School Principals, and the honor in accepting the Paul Carlson Administrator of the Year Award. His efforts span beyond the K-12 arena into higher education where he holds adjunct appointments, teaching courses at the masters and doctoral level. He is a national presenter on topics of school leadership and the co-founder of TheSchoolHouse302, a leadership development institute. Along with Joseph Jones, he co-authored Candid and Compassionate Feedback: Transforming Everyday Practice in Schools.
10:45 am – 11:00 am
Location: Palladium Ballroom A/B (Exhibit Hall)
Refreshment Break
Enjoy a cup of coffee and mingle among the Exhibitors before rushing off to the next session.
Group Sessions
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Session 1
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Tiberius
Executive Administrative Assistant: A Critical Role Through the Lens of Novice and Experienced Superintendents
Join us for an interactive discussion on the importance of an effective partnership between the Superintendent and their Executive Assistant and its influence on their vital roles in the ever-changing landscape of public education. Through a variety of scenarios, we will consider methods of communication, organization, and strategies that best support and enhance this unique and critical relationship all while focusing on the best interests of our students, staff and community.
Standards 1, 2, 6, 7, 8, 9
Presenters:
Liz Juliano
Executive Administrative Assistant
Mendham Borough School District
Suzanne May
Executive Administrative Assistant
Lumberton Township School District
Dr. Mitzi N. Morillo
Superintendent
Mendham Borough School District
Dr. Colleen Murray
Superintendent
Lumberton Township School District
Session 2
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Spartacus
A New Approach to Raising Teacher Morale
In 2023, there is no challenge more pressing than the record low levels of teacher morale currently present in schools and districts across the nation. Low morale not only makes it harder to retain and recruit high-quality educators, it impacts the quality of instruction and support that students are receiving in schools today. Without engaged, capable teachers in classrooms, every other district initiative will grind to a halt. But low morale is not inevitable. Research shows that you can build a systematic approach to raising teacher morale with lasting results.
Join Neal Dickstein of Freehold Township School District, Nelyda Perez of Matawan-Aberdeen Regional School District, Michael Liebmann, Director of Personnel, and EAB to hear how their districts have implemented new approaches to address teacher morale, and share strategies that can be used by other districts across New Jersey.
Standards 1, 5, 7, 10
Presenters:
Neal Dickstein
Superintendent
Freehold Township School District
Mike Liebmann
Director of Personnel
Matawan-Aberdeen Regional School District
Nelyda Perez
Assistant Superintendent
Matawan-Aberdeen Regional School District
NJASA Secretary
Dr. Eric Flowers
Senior Director K-12
EAB
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
nperez@marsd.org
Session 3
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Romulus
Creating Academic Achievement Through Mental Health
For students to access pathways to academic progress, we must provide strategies that address some of the major components of dysregulation such as: trauma, anxiety or depression. As administrators, support of our staff is paramount. Understanding the impact of a variety of stressors and how to combat them will assist not only in student progress but also in staff satisfaction and retention. We will talk about ways to recognize the needs of your school community and to put interventions in place that will assist in creating an environment that sustains and promotes growth for all.
Standard 5, 6, 7
Presenters:
Patricia Hovey
Executive Director
Roxbury Township Public Schools
Executive Director
Thrive Alliance Group
Chris Leonard
Chief Learning Officer
Thrive Alliance Group
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
phovey@thrivealliancegroup.com
Session 4
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Mars
Profile of a Graduate: An Introduction to the Promise of Personalized Learning
COVID-19 has provided a rare opportunity to re-envision education, from how we assess learning to how we engage the community. Personalized learning is incentivized in ESSA and it is transforming schools across the nation. Federal funds are available to those willing to pursue personalization. Building the Profile of a Graduate is the first step in the journey to personalized learning, and we will share specific implementation pathways and experiences. Let us introduce you to two superintendents who have started the process in their districts. Come and discuss the competencies and the possibilities for your students, your staff, and your community.
Standards 3, 4, 8, 10
Presenters:
Jacqueline McAlister
Ocean City School District Board Member
Ocean City School District
Dr. Courtney McNeely
Superintendent
Pittsgrove Township School District
Dr. Christopher Meyrick
Superintendent
Woodstown-Pilesgrove Regional School District
Dr. Kathleen Taylor
Superintendent (Retired)
Ocean City School District
Session 5
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Neptune
EDC Implementation – Lessons Learned Moving Into the 21st Century
Educational Services Commission of NJ recently implemented an electronic data collection system for gathering instructional/behavioral data and to monitor student progress. The road to implementation of electronic data was strewn with many challenges including resource constraints, technology, faculty/staff training, and operational logistics when coordinating a project with multiple vendors. The presenters will share information about the need for transitioning to electronic data collection, their experiences thereof, valuable lessons learned, and strategies for systematically overcoming challenges when working on a large-scale transition to a new system within a school district.
Standards 4, 9
Presenters:
Gary Molenaar
Assistant Superintendent
Educational Services Commission of NJ
Antoinette Nicholasi
Vice Principal
Educational Services Commission of NJ
Meena Pasupathy
Director of Collaborative Education
Educational Services Commission of NJ
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Session 6
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Palladium Ballroom C
From Building Administrators to Instructional Leaders
One of the easiest ways to lift leadership is to make sure everyone has a seat at the table, everyone is heard, and everyone is given the support to succeed. High functioning administrative teams can not only create an environment of shared knowledge and perspective but also build relationships of trust and comradery. Learn how changed administrative perspective can significantly change students outcomes.
During this interactive session, participants will engage in a variety of hands-on activities that will outline the move from manager to leader. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use strategies that will make the transition seamless.
Standards 1, 7, 10
Presenters:
Elba Castrovinci
Elementary Principal
Little Falls Township Public Schools
Tracey Marinelli
Superintendent
Little Falls Township Public Schools
Dana Sprague
Middle School Principal
Little Falls Township Public Schools
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Session 7
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Venus
What It Means to See Myself in the Books I Read: Providing Windows and Mirrors for All Students from All backgrounds
The East Orange and Cherry Hill Educational leadership team will demonstrate how building a district-wide classroom community that broadens the perspectives of students from all backgrounds, enables deep discussions about inclusivity, social justice, and empathy for others. By providing high-interest, inspiring and culturally relevant text, we give context to today’s world while celebrating the stories of all our children. Join us for a conversation on why it is just as important to have books that reflect mirrors and windows in Urban and Suburban districts.
Standard 3
Presenters:
Anita D. Champagne
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum Services
East Orange School District
Bridgett Green
Supervisor of Elementary Language Arts
East Orange School District
Violetta Katsikis
District Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction
Cherry Hill School District
Dr. Farrah Mahan
Assistant Superintendent, PreK-12 and Curriculum
Cherry Hill School District
Session 8
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Jupiter
Preparing for Controversy
With the recent and more vocal intrusion of politics into local educational matters, school leaders are experiencing an unprecedented focus on instructional programs, school protocols, and diversity practices. Join Kate Gilfillan, an attorney skilled in school law, public sector law, labor and employment law, and special education law and experienced Superintendent of Schools Dr. Barbara Sargent for a smart and candid presentation on how school leaders can prepare themselves for questions and political demands from board members, parents, and community members.
Standards 1, 2, 3, 4, 8
Dr. Barbara Sargent
Superintendent
Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District
Kate Gilfillan
Attorney and Partner
Schenck, Price, Smith, and King, LLP
Session 9
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Apollo/Zeus
Strong Women, Strong Leaders
Join us for this interactive session on the importance of being a strong woman in high demand jobs. This workshop will provide tips and tools for being a strong leader while not compromising our relationships with our team and community. We will collaborate on the importance of leading with a vision, having goals and leading with character.
Standards 1, 2, 3, 6, 7
Presenters:
Sarah Bilotti
Superintendent
Pascack Valley Regional High School District
Dr. Jeanene Dutt
Superintendent
North Warren Regional School District
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Session 10
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location - Octavius
The Best PD Can Be Personal
One of the greatest lessons that we learned from the pandemic is that we have to be prepared to meet emergent PD needs of our staff to help them optimize their role in instruction, meet the diverse needs of their students and maintain their own personal health and wellness. This requires a flexible and innovative approach to offering professional development. Learn how one district-equipped staff with meaningful, differentiated, and flexible PD options to meet the emergent needs of their students and prioritize their personal health and wellness for professional growth and sustainability.
Standards 1, 5, 6, 7
Presenters:
Tracy Leigh
Teacher/Coordinator of Education Techology Services
Wayne Township Public Schools
Katie Licwinko
Teacher/Coordinator of Education Techology Services
Wayne Township Public Schools
Donna Reichman
Assistant Superintendent
Wayne Township Public Schools
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
dreichman@wayneschools.com
12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Location: Palladium Ballroom A/B (Exhibit Hall)
Exhibit Hall/Lunch/Networking/Prizes
Have lunch and visit with our Allied Members who graciously support the Associations throughout the year. The knowledge, products and services they bring are available throughout the conference to assist school leaders in making informed decisions for their school districts.
Great Schools of New Jersey Meeting: What Does it Take to Improve Schools and Transform Education?
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Apollo/Zeus
This talk will explore what it takes to improve schools right now, at the same time that we work to transform education over the long term. Drawing on thirty years of work studying the failures and successes of educational reform efforts in the US, and in "higher performing" countries like Finland and Singapore, this session will address a series of key questions, including: Why is it so hard to change schools? How can we improve the schools we have? What will it take to transform schools and education in the future?
Presenter:
Thomas Hatch, Teachers College, Columbia University and the National Center for Restructuring Education, Schools & Teaching (NCREST)
Leadership Diversity and Women in Leadership Program (Combined meeting)
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Palladium Ballroom C
Making Tough Decisions - Career and Work Choices
Panelists will share insights into some of the choices they made and the process they used to make difficult and important decisions.
Panelists include:
Dr. Tami Crader
Superintendent
Neptune Township
Dr. Raymond Gonzalez
Superintendent
Westfield
Dr. Evelyn Mamman
Assistant Superintendent
South Brunswick
Dr. Laurie Newell
Superintendent
Essex Regional E.S.C.
Group Sessions
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Session 1
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Spartacus
Building an Authentic Staff Wellness Program that Pays and Saves
For our classrooms to operate at the highest level, staff members need to feel good and feel supported. But too often staff members are left to manage their stress and exhaustion in isolation. Research suggests that stress decreases when we know there are people at work who care about how we feel. In 2019, we launched an ambitious Staff Health and Wellness Initiative. What we have learned from our four-year journey is a road map for holistically supporting staff (and our classrooms). This session will explore how to begin an impactful wellness initiative, key factors to consider, and funding opportunities.
Standards 1, 5, 6, 7, 10
Presenters:
Dr. Brian Savage
School Business Administrator
Point Pleasant Beach School District
Dr. William Smith
Superintendent
Point Pleasant Beach School District
Session 2
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Octavius
South Bergen Jointure Commission and The Power of Partnerships: Helping People Break Through Barriers to Unleash their Potential and Give their Best to the World
The South Bergen Jointure Commission (SBJC) has researched and implemented a new program to help students with IEPs mitigate their disabilities which has resulted in developing learning strategies that challenge their students to live full and independent lives. This new program has dramatically increased social opportunities that reinforces life skills which promote independence. The SBJC partnered with the non-profit organization No Barriers USA and its founder Erik Weihenmayer (first blind person to climb Mt. Everest) in formalizing a theoretical framework that engages students in exploring new activities, showing them that “what’s within them is stronger than what’s in their way.”
The following outline some of the activities that have been implemented as part of the SBJC No Barriers Program: 1) Implemented a Yoga/Mindfulness Program to provide every student with skills to self-regulate behaviors; 2) District wide initiative for bike riding and swimming from 3 years old to 21; 3) Hiking Leadership where we trained our 18-21 year old students to lead our younger students on hiking expeditions; and 4) Created pathways to employment with a summer paid internship for our students; as well as many other independent life skills. The objective of this presentation is for participants to experience the No Barriers Life as a design framework that supports people to break through, and connect across, barriers and see firsthand how a district is revolutionizing the education of uniquely abled students. Moreover, the SBJC looks to collaborate with other districts as they start their own No Barriers journey and lay the groundwork for action in your district/schools/organizations/homes/families and community.
Standard 3
Presenters:
Chris Hughes
Director of Outreach
South Bergen Jointure Commission
Dr. Michael Kuchar
Superintendent
South Bergen Jointure Commission
Shane Miller
Director of Special Projects/Principal
South Bergen Jointure Commission
Ashley Vaughan
Director of Curriculum
South Bergen Jointure Commission
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Session 3
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Neptune
Implementing a Restorative Community Service Program to Reduce Student Suspension
Learn how to develop a positive approach to resolve challenging and repeated discipline behaviors through the application of Restorative Community Service. The RCS process consists of a number of steps, designed to implement the approach with fidelity and begin to change the culture and mindset about student discipline.
Learn how a school district used the MTSS process to identify students for RCS, and partnered with a mental health service provider and community organizers to link community service activities with student discipline. In this session, we will introduce a framework to outline the necessary process and steps to incorporate an RCS model into your discipline approach from planning and developing, to full implementation.
Standards 3, 5, 8, 10
Presenters:
Marta Audino
Director of Student Services
Hamilton Township School District
Edward Bucior
Principal
South River Public Schools
Dr. Sylvia Zircher
Superintendent
South River Public Schools
Mike Roseman
Senior Vice President of District Partnerships
Effective School Solutions
Session 4
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Mars
Emotional Regulation Impairment, High Rewards, and Success in the Classroom
During the 21-22 school year, the Lyndhurst Public Schools was faced with several of our students who needed intense behavioral interventions and supports. The students were in kindergarten and first grade with a classification of ERI - Emotional Regulation Impairment. Our learners that school year, had an inability to attend to school, displayed inappropriate behaviors and feelings under normal classroom circumstances, aggression, and an overwhelming sense of unhappiness. Yet, we saw hope and greatness in each of them. Putting together the right team, including a Behaviorist, School Psychologist, Registered Behavior Technician and Special Education Teacher, a classroom was born with a focus on academics and a token economy high level reward system. Our behavior modification system even allows the students the ability to earn participation in a weekly Jujitsu Class. We are proud to share our experience of what worked for our students and the successes we are seeing in decreasing their behaviors and increasing their overall academic achievement and happiness in the classroom.
Standards 4, 5
Presenters:
Joseph DeCorso
Superintendent
Lyndhurst Public Schools
Alexis Finley
School Psychologist
Lyndhurst Public Schools
Jamie A. Stevens
Director of Student Services
Lyndhurst Public Schools
Raymond Vazquez
Behaviorist
Lyndhurst Public Schools
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
jamiestevens@lyndhurst.k12.nj.us
Session 5
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Venus
(Mis)steps to Success: Reflections from First Year Superintendents
Superintendents spend a great deal of time sharing their successes - the things that went well, the things they're proud of, or how they've positively impacted their students, staff, and school community. But very few talk about the mistakes they've made and how important those missteps were for professional growth.
Join first-year superintendents for a journey through some of their biggest mistakes on the job and how those mistakes have helped inform their future work as district leaders, managers, and public figures.
Standards 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Presenters:
Daniel Ross
Superintendent
Dunellen Public Schools
Dr. Melissa Stager
Superintendent
Clinton Township School District
Session 6
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Romulus
Leadership in the Role of the CSA/Principal
This session will focus on the position of the CSA/Principal, serving two positions in small districts. Topics may include: district structure, board relations, curriculum implementation, innovations, areas for improvement, and equity issues. We will also discuss the challenges of addressing Special Education needs and staffing structure of the Child Study Team in small districts. Participants will have the opportunity to network and share best practices with those new to the position and those that have served multiple contracts.
Standards 1, 5, 6, 9, 10
Presenter:
Matt Eagleburger
CSA/Principal
Franklin Township School District
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
meagleburger@franklinschool.org
Session 7
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Jupiter
Solving the Unsolvable: How One District Approached Retention and Recruitment
In recognition of the ongoing labor shortage in schools, the Readington Township Public Schools convened a task force to make recommendations regarding staff retention and recruitment. In this session, participants will learn about leadership strategies used to survey staff, analyze data, and develop recommendations to improve recruitment and retention action plans. The facilitators will discuss this issue as a ‘wicked problem.' According to Rittel and Webber (1973), professors at the University of California at Berkeley, a wicked problem has innumerable causes, is tough to describe, and doesn’t have a right answer. We think our process will help find the answer.
Standards 1, 6, 7
Presenters:
Timothy Charleston
Principal, Readington Middle School/
Readington Township Public Schools
Dr. Jonathan Hart
Superintendent
Readington Township Public Schools
Session 8
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Location: Tiberius
The 20 Special Education Mistakes No District Can Afford to Make: Comegno’s Lessons
What can we learn from entertaining (and painful and expensive) practitioner mistakes? Why eligibility remains our most important best practice, and avoiding determination errors is fundamental in an age of gaps and global learning loss. Parental demand does not mean entitlement, or FAPE, and the consequence of “giving in” may be catastrophic for your district, and more importantly, the student. How do courts see differences between MTSS, intervention, and restrictive programming? Zoom is not SDI, but what is, and why does it matter? Is the goal inclusion, or being included? Collaboration and discussion is important, and part of the process, but case managers need to “land the plane” and make final decisions, in writing. Mental health remains critical; how can special educators explain, with empathy, the difference between “instruction” and “treatment.” Learn from John as he tells about painful lessons learned, and shares tools that may be turn-keyed back in-district.
Standards 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Presenter:
John Comegno
President/Founder/Attorney
Comegno Law Group & Comegno Education Institute
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
comegnoeducation.com
2:30 pm – 2:45 pm
Refreshment Break
Location: Palladium Ballroom A/B (Exhibit Hall)
Group Sessions
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Session 1
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Location: Tiberius
Transforming a School District, One Relationship at a Time
This session will take you through Dr. Rich Tomko’s 8-year leadership journey as Superintendent of the Belleville School District. Since his appointment in 2015, Dr. Tomko has been steadfast in rebuilding relations, improving finances, increasing enrollment, strengthening student achievement benchmarks – all while repairing trust within the community. Dr. Rich Tomko believes the key to running a successful school district is to develop and nurture relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Two of Dr. Tomko’s leadership philosophies center around customer service and safety and will be explored during the session. Lori Perlow, Public Information Officer for Haddon Township School District’s Communications Consortium, will co-facilitate the session through the lens of community relations. Attendees will leave with new ideas and strategies that can be implemented immediately.
Standards 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Presenters:
Dr. Richard Tomko
Superintendent
Belleville Public Schools
Lori Perlow
Public Information Officer
Haddon Township School District - Communications Consortium
Session 2
2:45pm – 3:45 pm
Location: Neptune
Creating POWERFUL Learning Communities - PLC's
What Distinguishes a High-Functioning PLC from Teachers Who Share Common Planning Time? Results and Relationships
PLCs are more important than ever. When done well, they raise teacher morale and student achievement. To do so, they need more than time to meet. They need shared understandings of purpose, protocols, and priorities.
This presentation will use Byram's story to demonstrate how to develop effective PLCs. We will look back at what was done, explain why it was successful, and identify mistakes made along the way. Participants will leave with resources and a clear understanding of the leader’s role in developing high-performing PLCs.
Standards 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 10
Presenters:
John Fritzky
Superintendent
Byram Township School District
Dr. Tracey Severns
Educational Consultant
Teach 4 Results
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Session 3
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Location: Apollo/Zeus
Knowing Our Why
Knowing Our Why will engage participants in a self-reflection followed by the presenter sharing her story and series of exercises that the leadership team in her district used to reground and heal after the pandemic followed by a sudden change in leadership and a series of new hires to the leadership team. These exercises led to the identification of core values, vision and mission statements to help a leadership team move forward with purpose. The exercises will be shared with participants for adaptation and use with their leadership teams as they see fit.
Standard 1
Presenter:
Dr. Kim Feltre
Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction
Hillsborough Township Public Schools
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Session 4
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Location: Palladium Ballroom C
Women in Leadership: Navigating the Most Common Challenges
This session examines the issues and challenges facing women in leadership positions, and offers strategies for handling them. Topics include combatting double standards, knowing one’s worth and advocating, negotiating, and developing a healthy work-life balance. During this session, participants will engage in real-time conversations with peers, and use context from their own experiences to apply strategies presented. Join us for an opportunity to grow your own professional network of women leaders.
Standards 1, 2, 3, 6, 7
Presenters:
Lindsay Jablonski
Supervisor of English Language Arts
West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District
Tracy Mulvaney
Associate Professor of Ed Leadership
Monmouth University
Dr. Sylvia Zircher
Superintendent
South River Public Schools
Session 5
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Location: Romulus
Solving the World Language Teacher Shortage: The Ultimate 2023 Guide
Hear from a New Jersey Chief School Administrator and a New Jersey Director of World Language how they used existing classroom resources to create an effective and fun world language learning environment for all their K-8th grade students.
Standards 3, 4, 8
Presenters:
Mike Ryder
Chief School Administrator
Hardyston Township Schools
Sarah Thiemann
Owner and Founder
Sarah's Spanish School
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
www.sarahsspanish.com/njasa
Session 6
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Location: Spartacus
Leading with Resilience: A Multifaceted Approach to Building Administrative Capacity to Enhance a District's Culture
“Failure” is not readily viewed as a positive component of culture building, yet it is critical to developing resiliency. This presentation will provide school leaders with a framework for embracing failure as a positive force to enhance their leadership; shifting the paradigm to a culture that creates opportunities for calculated risk-taking, innovative problem solving and stimulating organizational growth through resiliency. Leaders will learn how to build resilient teams to enhance classroom, building and district culture.
Standards 1, 2, 6, 7
Presenters:
Denise Heitman
Principal - Cherry Hill School
River Edge Public Schools
Christine Moran
Director of Curriculum & Instruction
River Edge Public Schools
Dr. Lisa Torres
Supervisor of English Language Arts & Social Studies 7-12
River Dell Regional School District
Session 7
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Location: Octavius
Creative & Cost-Effective Solutions to Common District Challenges
The nine educational services commissions (ESCs) across New Jersey were established to support public and nonpublic school districts in everything from transportation to special services. In this session, the administration from Monmouth-Ocean Educational Services Commission (MOESC) will highlight some of the ways we support districts using a cost-effective model. Participants will gain knowledge, resources, and ideas on how ESCs can solve challenges through cooperative purchasing and transportation, grant compliance and management, staff development, alternative school placement, child study team services, NJ Virtual School, staffing, home instruction, nursing services, and more.
Standards 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Presenters:
Dr. Bill George
Interim Superintendent/Program Director
MOESC/Monmouth University
Dr. Wendy Morales
Assistant Superintendent
Monmouth-Ocean Educational Services Commission
Chris Mullins
Business Administrator
Monmouth-Ocean Educational Services Commission
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Session 8
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Location: Venus
Mindful Leadership: Creating Equitable Spaces for Marginalized Students
Transgender and gender non-conforming students face subtle, as well as overt, challenges in schools that impact their access to equitable educational opportunities and further hinder schools from creating inclusive and safe environments. Many states and local school districts have adopted safeguards to protect student rights that explicitly include gender identity and expression. However, in order to effectively implement policy that is reflective of law and best practice, school districts, educational leaders, and therapeutic counselors must have an extensive understanding of the needs of transgender and gender non-conforming students. The session will address expansive terminology and critical applications of non-discriminatory language and engagement while detailing specific policy recommendations to secure ethical and legal practices within school districts. Therapeutic suggestions will be discussed in consultation with implementation strategies and training models.
Standards 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10
Presenters:
Dr. Silvia C. Pastor
Supervisor of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion/ SEL Coordinator
Belleville Public Schools
Louis Noha Manziano
Supervisor of English Language Arts and Social Studies, Grades 6-12
Metuchen School District
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
silvia.pastor@bellevilleschools.org
Session 9
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Location: Mars
Data - Meeting the Needs of Kids, Parents, Teachers, and Educational Leaders
Over the last six years, Colts Neck Township Schools has refined its processes for:
- collecting and warehousing student performance data
- fostering a culture of purposeful assessment and transparency
- empowering all students, parents, teachers, and administrators with comprehensive access to intuitive reports
- systematically matching students with tiered supports
- strategically targeting skills and standards to maximize each student's potential
In this workshop, we will share tips for avoiding common challenges and how our district continues to support the evolution of our data teams and processes.
Standard 4
Presenter:
Dr. Erica Reynolds
Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Colts Neck Township Schools
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Session 10
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Location: Jupiter
Budgeting and Strategic Planning for Projects in 2023
This session will introduce strategies used for preparing budgets, including contingencies and escalators. It will also highlight strategies to control costs, including alternates and value engineering. Other topics will include how to confront material delays and shortages that could impact a completion date, appropriate times for bidding and deferring projects.
Standards 1, 9, 10
Presenters:
Jayson Gutierrez
Superintendent
Riverdale Public School District
Frank Messineo
Principal
Solutions Architecture
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
fm@solutions-arch.com
3:45 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Palladium A/B (Exhibit Hall)
Exhibit Hall Networking and Prizes!
The Exhibit Hall remains open until the start of the President’s Reception. Stop by after a long day and visit with the NJASA Allied Members.
(Cash bar)
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Location: Nero’s Restaurant
2nd floor – From the Palladium Ballroom, proceed across the Casino floor, turn left at the Theatre/Box Office, take the glass elevator or the staircase to the 3rd floor. Nero’s will be to your left.
NJASA PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION
Don’t miss the opportunity to meet new members and renew old friendships while enjoying adult refreshments and light fare.
Co-Sponsored by L.E.A.D.
FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2023
CONFERENCE/EXHIBITOR REGISTRATION & INFORMATION
7:30 am – 11:30 am
Location: 2nd Floor – Centurion Tower
Palladium Ballroom Registration Desk
7:30 am – 8:15 am
Location: Palladium Ballroom A/B (Exhibit Hall)
Continental Breakfast
The Exhibit Hall will be open from 7:30 am – 10:30 am. Don't miss this opportunity to network with NJASA's preferred providers of equipment, supplies and services.
GENERAL SESSION
8:20 am – 10:15 am
Location: Palladium Ballroom C
Special Recognition will be made honoring:
- In Memoriam
- NJASA Retirees
School Safety and Security Program
Exploring Critical Needs and Effective Practices for New Jersey School Leaders
(A Panel Discussion)
Facilitated by:
- Dr. MaryJane Garibay, Superintendent-Colts Neck Township
- Dr. Charles Sampson, Superintendent-Freehold Regional H.S.
(Co-Chairs of the NJASA School Security and Student Safety Ad Hoc Committee)
Panelists:
- David Cittadino, Superintendent-Old Bridge
- Dr. Deborah Harvest, Assistant Superintendent-East Orange
- J. Kenyon Kummings, Superintendent-Wildwood
- Jeff Gale, Director-NJDOE Office of School Preparedness and Emergency Planning
- Dr. Thomas Gambino, NJDOE Office of School Preparedness and Emergency Planning
10:15 am – 10:30 am
Location: Palladium Ballroom A/B (Exhibit Hall)
Refreshment Break
Enjoy a cup of coffee and mingle among the Exhibitors before rushing off to the next session.
Group Sessions
10:35 am –11:35 am
Session 1
10:35 am – 11:35 am
Location: Spartacus
Self-Care for Administrators…What I Wish I Had Known!
Districts have become much more attuned and attentive to the mental, emotional and physical health and wellness of students, teachers and staff members. This is time and money very well spent. But, what about administrators? Who is attending to their health and wellness needs?
This workshop will remind school leaders of the importance of their own health and wellness by emphasizing self-care practices as performance recovery. Participants will learn to practice micro, marco and habitual performance recovery techniques designed to support and rejuvenate busy, overburdened and fatiguing administrators.
Standard 6
Presenters:
Monica Butler
Health Coach/Retired Administrator
Butler Health Coaching
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
monica@butlerhealthcoaching.com
Session 2
10:35 am – 11:35 am
Location: Jupiter
Are You Harvesting Your Data?
Every district runs a version of the MTSS/RTI process, but is your team using the right data points to maximize its benefits? Over the past few years, the Barnegat Township School District has evolved its RTI process by refining the metrics, interventions, and services delivered. The result has been double-digit gains in elementary math and reading proficiency! Hear about the success of our Data Harvest process and how you can bring some new ideas back to your district.
Standards 1, 3, 4, 5, 6
Presenters:
Jim Barbiere
Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and HR
Barnegat Township School District
Dan Gundersen
Director of Student Services
Barnegat Township School District
Dr. Brian Latwis
Superintendent
Barnegat Township School District
Suzanne Mayo
Supervisor of Elementary, K-4
Barnegat Township School District
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
Session 3
10:35 am – 11:35 am
Location: Venus
Everyday Equity
The workshop entitled, “Everyday Equity”, will focus on three key areas to help educational leaders define and incorporate equity into their daily work.
This workshop will:
-Provide insight into designing actionable steps to organize teacher leadership teams to identify areas of inquiry.
-Assist building and content leaders in developing an equity lens and champion the work in their specific roles
-Build strategies to collaborate with key stakeholders (Ex. Students, Families, and Colleagues) across the school environment to identify and address problems of practice
Standards 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10
Presenters:
Dr. Alex Gray
Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Piscataway Township Schools
Hitisha Patel
Officer of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Edison Township Public Schools
Daryn Plummer
Supervisor of Equity & Inclusion
Franklin Township Public Schools
Session #4
10:35 am – 11:35 am
Location: Tiberius
Threat Assessment – Stopping the Threat Before it Becomes a Threat
According to Assembly Bill A4075/3228, all public schools are required to develop threat assessment teams by the 2023-2024 school year. In this session, staff from NJDOE’s OSPEP will share the composition of the school-based threat assessment team, signs the team members should look for in recognizing the threat before it becomes a threat. The session’s content will reflect upon prior school active shooting incidents and commonalities.
Standards 6, 9
Presenters:
Jeff Gale
Director
New Jersey Department of Education
Office of School Preparedness and Emergency Planning
Dr. Thomas Gambino
Education Specialist
New Jersey Department of Education
Office of School Preparedness and Emergency Planning
Session 5
10:35 am – 11:35 am
Location: Romulus
Harness the Power of Social Media: A Plan for School Administrators
Launching, creating content, and managing social media can be especially challenging given the complexities in leading a school district. This workshop will provide a strategic, multi-step approach to develop and execute a tangible social media strategy, through measurable goals, that will build district branding, foster community relations, and align with your district’s mission. Participants will explore social media marketing and management, content creation tools, social listening, and the fundamental elements of running a successful social media campaign to tell your district’s story. Social media is here to stay - it’s your time to harness its power for your district!
Standards 1, 2, 8
Presenter:
Heather Daniel
District Administrator: Supervisor of Instructional Technology and Digital Communications
Wall Township Public Schools
The Website/Email address where my Presentation/Materials can be viewed after my session:
hdaniel@wallpublicschools.org
Adjourned
