2024 MASA Fall Conference

Reimagining the future of education for a complex and ever-changing world is no small task, but it is one that we must undertake with urgency and focus. Given the current state of education, it might feel irresponsible to turn our focus away from the present. School leaders are managing low test scores, high rates of depression and anxiety, divided communities, and unprecedented teacher shortages. But it is precisely for these reasons that we must transform the current system and bring forth a new vision. And you do not have to do it alone. In this session, we will explore how school leaders can unleash the creativity of their students, educators, and community members and enlist their support to reimagine the future of teaching and learning so everyone inside your district can have joyful learning experiences that cultivate connections, feel relevant and engaging, and develop the skills and dispositions necessary to thrive in both community and career. Takeaways: 1.how leaders can unleash the creativity of their students, educators, and community members. 2. how leaders can enlist the support of the above to reimagine the future of teaching and learning. 3. constructing a school environment of joyful learning experiences that cultivate connections, feel relevant and engaging, and develop the skills and dispositions necessary to thrive in both community and career.

Is your district's curriculum, culture, and pedagogy truly aligned with its overarching vision? Are you adhering to conventional norms, or are you pioneering new approaches to optimize education for your students and their future? This insightful session will explore the experiences of a school district that courageously assessed its educational programs during the pre-bond phase of its bond project. Learn how bond opportunities can be utilized not merely for infrastructural enhancements but also to reimagine and reform educational delivery within your district. Takeaways: 1. Learn about the significance of educational alignment with the district’s vision and the importance of curriculum, culture and pedagogy, This is not your typical educational planning. 2. Understand how to utilize bond processes beyond physical upgrades to drive educational innovation and transformation. 3. Gain insights into techniques for leading courageous changes in educational programming and facility design.

Northview Public Schools has been at the forefront of creating innovative programming to meet alternative education students where they are through the Northview Next Career Center, where students receive onsite career training, and the Northview Next Learning Center. The objective of the Northview Next Career Center and Learning Center is to help all students between the ages of 15-22 acquire an NVPS diploma, regardless of their circumstances. Learn more about how Northview is leveraging a model based on flexibility, accountability, and robust human support to help alternative education students succeed. Takeaways: 1. Participants will learn the why behind creating a learning center and a career center to serve students. 2. Participants will understand the components to equitable alternatives that aid in removing barriers for students. 3. Participants will gain knowledge on support services that are key in aiding a student’s academic success.