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Good morning, School Leaders, This week's IASP Advocacy Podcast recaps important takeaways from the September 9th State Board of Education (SBOE) meeting. Here are some highlights:
Hello IASP Members, This week on the IASP Advocacy Podcast, we're looking at advocacy through a different lens. As school leaders, advocacy isn't just about legislation — it's also about telling the story of your school. Whether it's culture, attendance, or programming, we are always sharing what makes our schools unique. In this episode, I'm joined by IASP's new intern, who shares her work-based learning experience and talks about her role in launching Reel Impact — a brand new digital media competition from IASP Student Programs. You'll hear about: The power of work-based learning opportunities What it takes to create a short, high-impact video How her school community reacted to her project Why Reel Impact videos can be powerful tools for advocacy — not only with students and parents, but also with local officials and state legislators. Consider how you and your students could use Reel Impact to showcase your school's story while also engaging your community and decision-makers. Thanks for all you do to advocate for your schools and your students! Warm regards, Cindy Long Assistant Executive Director Indiana Association of School Principals
As the first major IASP academic competition of the year, Spell Bowl sets the tone for the season - and few know it better than longtime coach Peggy Grabowski. With over 20 years at the helm of Terre Haute South Vigo High School's Spell Bowl team, Peggy led her students to the state finals more than twenty times and earned five state championships along the way. In this episode, Annie sits down with Peggy to talk about what it takes to build a thriving academic team - from practice routines and team culture to the joy of language and "embracing the quirk." Whether you're a seasoned coach, a new competitor, or just a word nerd at heart, this episode is full of insight, inspiration, and a lot of love for learning.
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Dr. Jen Schawnke, upcoming IASP Assistant Principals Opening Keynote Speaker. Leading with heart. Handling conflict with confidence. Protecting our joy in the middle of constant demands. If that sounds like exactly what you need, you'll love this preview of our opening keynote with Dr. Jen Schwanke at the IASP Assistant Principals Conference on November 20, 2025, at the JW Marriott, Indianapolis. We highlight takeaways from her keynote, “Leading with Heart,”—school climate, authentic support, work–life integration, and self-care—and her breakout, “Conflict Management for Assistant Principals,” featuring the practical anticipate–analyze–act approach. Tune in for inspiration and ready-to-use strategies, then make plans to join us on November 20. Click to register!
It's Friday, and that means it's time for the IASP Advocacy Podcast — your go-to for education policy, leadership insight, and what's next in Indiana and beyond. This week's special guest is none other than The Retired Guy himself — Steve Baker. With his trademark humor and wisdom, Steve dives into how school leaders can successfully implement new changes—whether those changes come from the Indiana General Assembly, district-level policy shifts, or even federal mandates. With Soil, Ships, and Successful Leaders, Steve shares a fresh perspective on navigating the sometimes turbulent waters of leadership. Expect a few good laughs along the way, but also plenty of practical advice you can take back to your schools right now.
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership Podcast—a weekly production bringing you short, sweet nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for your leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Damon West, author of The Coffee Bean and an incredible voice on resilience, transformation, and leadership. And here's the exciting part—Damon will be joining us live as the keynote speaker at the IASP Fall Professionals Conference, closing us out on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis. Registration is now open, and you don't want to miss him! Now, let's dive into this powerful conversation with Damon West. Click to register for the conference!
Dear IASP Members, It's Friday, and that means it's time for the IASP Advocacy Podcast — your go-to for education policy, leadership insight, and what's next in Indiana and beyond. This week, I sat down with Denise Funston, Director of Exceptional Needs for Community Schools of Frankfort, to talk all things special education. We dive into: Indiana's new IEP process and PowerSchool implementation The biggest challenges in rollout and how schools are adapting Strategies for addressing special education staffing shortages Tips for school leaders on working most effectively with special education staff Denise's perspective on what she'd change if she had a “magic wand” to remove barriers for students and educators This conversation offers practical insights for principals and a deeper understanding of what's happening in special education across Indiana.
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, Dr. Tiffany D. Barrett shares a few of her favorite time management tips and tricks to help start your year off strong.
Cuando el dolor persiste sin lesión aparente, el problema puede estar en el sistema que lo procesa. En este episodio exploramos el dolor nociplástico, una categoría reconocida por la IASP para describir el dolor crónico que no se explica por daño tisular ni lesión nerviosa, pero que sí presenta signos de sensibilización central.Analizamos los criterios clínicos propuestos por Kosek et al. (IASP, 2022), que permiten identificar este tipo de dolor en la consulta diaria, y destacamos la importancia de un abordaje multidisciplinario que incluya no solo tratamientos médicos, sino también intervenciones psicológicas, fisioterapia, educación en neurociencia del dolor y estrategias de autocuidado.
IASP Members, It's been a full and exciting week for Indiana education policy, and we've captured the highlights for you in this week's IASP Advocacy Podcast with Dr. Todd Bess. Click here to listen to this week's IASP Advocacy Podcast! In this episode: Highlights from the State Board of Education meeting, including the release of IRead scores. A follow-up to our powerful School Accountability webinar with over 400 IASP members. **Additional resources provided via email for our members.
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from our Assistant Principal Liaison and Associate Principal at Chesterton HS, Mrs. Kristen Peterson, as she shares her article, "From the AP Lens: Using the S.A.N.I.T.Y. Blueprint to Kick Off the Year!"
In this inaugural episode, Director of Student Programs Jill Slinker introduces Annie Bretz, our Programs Coordinator and the voice you'll hear hosting future episodes. Get to know Annie as she shares a bit about herself and what you can expect from this podcast moving forward— from student opportunities and event highlights to behind-the-scenes insights and conversations with the people who make it all happen. Whether you're a student, educator, or advocate for student programs across Indiana, this podcast is your go-to for staying connected and inspired. Stay tuned and subscribe. Exciting things are ahead!
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Mr. Andy Allen, our newly inducted IASP President, as he shares his vision for the 2025-2026 year.
Manager's note: The Pain Beat, launched and supported by a generous grant from the MAYDAY Fund, with additional funding from the Rita Allen Foundation, brings together the world's leading pain investigators with the purpose of sparking dialogue and debate around important ideas in pain research. Guided by Rebecca Seal, scientific director of The Pain Beat and Editor-in-Chief of Pain Research Forum, the podcasts feature open and spirited discussions about the hottest topics in pain and how the field moves forward. For this episode, Adam Dourson and Lite Yang served as both creators and producers. Juliet Mwirigi moderates a lively in person discussion with a diverse panel of preclinical and clinical experts at the USASP meeting in Chicago. Where are we in understanding and treating migraine? What successes have we had and what challenges do we still face? Podcast participants include: Andrew Russo, PhD, University of Iowa, US Gregory Dussor, PhD, UT Dallas, US Hadas Nahman-Averbuch PhD, University of Washington in Saint Louis, US Levi Sowers, PhD, University of Iowa, US Yohannes Woldeamanuel, MD, Mayo Clinic, US Juliet Mwirigi, PhD, Washington University in Saint Louis, US PRF thanks Kevin Seal for creating the music.
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. On today's episode, we have Andy Allen, Principal at Batesville High School and President-Elect with us today to share some highlights as part of our BEST of series to round out the year. This series is a highlight reel of all things good in education and today, we can't wait to hear from Mr. Allen's perspective!
I'm excited to share a brief but important episode of the IASP Advocacy Podcast: “Action Items & Accountability: What You Need to Know Before School Starts.”
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from our Assistant Principal Liaison and Associate Principal at Chesterton HS, Mrs. Kristen Peterson, and Mr. Josh Burkett, Elementary Assistant Principal at Wes-Del Community Schools. They join us for the “Through the Assistant Principal Lens” series. I'm your host, Dr. Tiffany Barrett, and today Josh will share the Wes-Del journey through developing innovative strategies to improve literacy and integrate reflective practices during their school.
This week's episode of the IASP Advocacy Podcast is short—but powerful.
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. On today's episode, we have Dr. Bret Bailey, Principal of Hamilton Heights Middle School and IASP Vice-President with us to share some highlights from this year as part of our BEST of series. This series is a highlight reel of all things good in education, and today, we appreciate Dr. Bret Bailey sharing his BEST with us!
A brand-new episode of the IASP Advocacy Podcast is now live — and this one's a must-listen for every school leader in Indiana. On June 4, the Indiana Department of Education presented the first draft of the state's new school accountability model to the State Board of Education. In this 15-minute episode, I break down what's changing, why it matters, and how this shift could impact your school — all in language built for building leaders.
Join us for ther episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. On today's episode, we have Dr. Jane Bitting, Principal of Perry Hill Elementary School and IASP incoming vice-president with us to share some highlights from her year as part of our BEST of the 2024-2025 series. This series is a highlight reel of all things good in education, and today, we appreciate Dr. Jane Bitting sharing her BEST with us!
Greetings, IASP Members! We've just released a new episode of the IASP Advocacy Podcast, and this one is a must-listen as you plan for the 2025–26 school year. In this episode, I walk through the budget shifts, new mandates, and key funding implications from the 2025 Indiana General Assembly—and what they mean for your school.
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. On today's episode, we have none other than Mr. Steve Baker, Principal at Bluffton High School and our very own Liaison to the DOE with us to share some highlights from this year as part of our BEST of series. This series is a highlight reel of all things good in education, and today, we would like to honor one of the very best, Mr. Steve Baker as we wish him well in his retirement!
Good afternoon, IASP Members! As we start shifting into summer planning mode, I'm excited to share the latest episode of the IASP Advocacy Podcast: “Top Ten Hidden Nuggets from the 2025 Legislative Session: What Principals Need to Know Now.”
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from our Assistant Principal Liaison and Associate Principal at Chesterton High School, Mrs. Kristen Peterson, and guest Tiffany Hawkins, Assistant Principal at Chesterton High School, joining us for our “Through the Assistant Principal Lens” series. I'm your host, Dr. Tiffany Barrett, and today Tiffany and Kristen will share their journey and expertise on supporting students through the summer.
IASP Advocacy Podcast: Wrapping Up Our Legislative Series with Dr. Jane Bitting We're closing out our Voices from the Field – Legislative Perspectives podcast series with an elementary lens on the 2025 legislative session. This week's guest is Dr. Jane Bitting, Principal of Perry Hill Elementary School and IASP's next Vice President. Jane offers thoughtful reflections on how this year's new laws are shaping the foundational years of education and what elementary principals should keep in mind moving forward. In this episode, we explore: HEA 1498 – Accountability & Assessment: How changes in performance metrics and testing are impacting elementary schools. HEA 1634 – Advanced Math Placement: Why early math readiness matters and how elementary educators play a role in advanced pathways. SEA 482 – Absenteeism: The importance of early attendance interventions and building family partnerships to support consistent learning.
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we're excited to bring you a special panel discussion featuring three outstanding Indiana superintendents: Dr. Michael Beresford of Carmel Clay Schools, Dr. Scott Collins of MSD Decatur Township, and Mr. Jason Cary of Greenfield-Central Schools. This conversation was recorded live at the Aspiring Principals Conference, and we're thrilled to share their valuable insights with all of you.
We're continuing our special podcast series Voices from the Field – Legislative Perspectives with another powerful conversation, this time from the middle school lens. This week's guest is Dr. Bret Bailey, Principal of Hamilton Heights Middle School and IASP Vice President. Bret shares thoughtful reflections on how recent legislation is likely to impact middle schools across Indiana. In this episode, we dive into: SEA 255 – Bullying, STEM Flexibility, and Religious Instruction HEA 1634 – Math Education HEA 1498 – Accountability and Assessment
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. On today's episode, we are offering a special opportunity to dig deeper into Micro-Credentials with our past IASP President, Mrs. Aimee Lunsford, Chief Academic Officer, and Catherine Cavanaugh, Kindergarten Teacher, and Hilary Stouder, Building Principal, all from Warsaw Community Schools, in Warsaw, Indiana. Are YOU interested in taking a Micro-Credential? Click HERE for more information or to register. Click to view the School Leader Paradigm.
We're excited to launch a brand-new series on the IASP Advocacy Podcast featuring members of our Executive Board! Over the next three weeks, we'll be spotlighting school leaders from across Indiana — each offering their unique perspective on key education legislation from the 2025 General Assembly session. This week's guest is Andrew Allen, Principal of Batesville High School and IASP President-Elect. Andy brings a thoughtful and experienced voice to the conversation as we dive into three impactful bills: HB 1064 – Student Transfers: Exploring how the bill may shift local control and enrollment dynamics. HB 1498 – Accountability: Unpacking new provisions around data, assessment, and what they mean for schools. HB 1001 – Teacher Appreciation Grants: Discussing changes to how these funds are distributed and recognized. Whether you're a principal, administrator, or education advocate, this series is designed to keep you informed and connected to the policy decisions shaping our schools.
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from four of our new leaders as they share about their experiences. Please welcome Bryan Ramirez, of Northview Middle School, Tony Tate, of Decatur Middle School, Rhonda Bates, of IU High School Online, and Tevin Shoultz, of Jennings County Middle School. Would you like to know more about INALI? Click here to learn more. If you are interested in joining INALI, simply click here and your leadership journey will begin!
This week's Legislative Update podcast is packed with everything you need to know as we near the end of the 2025 legislative session!
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Aimee Lunsford, Chielf Academic Officer at Warsaw Schools as she shares some important information on the Science of Reading.
Happy Easter from all of us at IASP!
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Jeff Lehman, Middle School/High School Assistant Principal at South Adams Schools and Kristen Peterson, Associate Principal at Chesterton High School & IASP Assistant Principal Liaison, as they share more on school safety, in our Through the AP Lens Series.
This week's Legislative Update Podcast features a quick rundown of the final Senate bills heard in the House Education Committee—some key pieces of legislation you'll want to keep an eye on as we approach the end of session. In this episode, we cover: SB 255 – updated language regarding bullying SB 442 – instruction on human sexuality SB 482 – addressing chronic absenteeism SB 373 – a wide-ranging education bill from Senator Raatz SB 202 – Senator Goode's Higher Education bill Also—don't miss our upcoming webinar! Join us Wednesday, April 16 at 10:00 a.m. for a special IASP webinar focused on early implementation of Indiana's new graduation requirements, with a focus on the Enrollment Honors Plus Seal. This new seal automatically grants undergraduate admission to Indiana students who earn it, so it's important to understand what it means for your students and your school. As always, thank you for your continued leadership and commitment to Indiana students.
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Dr. Tiffany Barrett and Cindy Long, IASP Assistant Executive Directors as they share all of the programs and offerings IASP currently has available.
This episode features two very special guests from the Indiana Association of School Business Officials: Executive Director Dr. Scott Bowling and long-time IASBO lobbyist Denny Costerison. In this conversation, we tackle two important goals—first, to gain a clearer understanding of the Indiana State Budget and its impact on education, and second, to break down the role of property taxes in school funding and explore how Senate Bill 1 could bring changes in this area.
Welcome to the IASP Leadership Podcast, where we dive deeper into the art and science of effective leadership. Join us as we explore actionable insights, thought-provoking discussions, and real-world experiences that empower you to lead with impact. On today's episode, we have guest, Monica Genta. Monica is an energetic educator, speaker, and author. Through her professional development sessions and keynote presentations Monica focuses on practical strategies, creative ideas, and positive mindsets that empower teachers to energize their classrooms. She has authored several books—including Game Changers, 180 Days of Awesome, and Crave—all of which center on building strong connections, sparking motivation, and keeping education both fun and impactful. Link to Monica Genta's website: monicagenta.com Link to Monica's Professional Development services: monicagenta.com/PD
I invite you to tune in to this week's episode of the IASP Legislative Update Podcast
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Lauren Sisler. Lauren is an award winning sports broadcaster with ESPN and she also is a advocate for mental health and a motivational speaker and we wanted her to join us today to share her wisdom, background, and insights about resilience and overcoming obstacles.
Staying on top of education legislation is more important than ever, and IASP is here to keep you informed every step of the way. I'm excited to share the IASP Legislative Update Podcast, where I break down the latest developments from the Indiana General Assembly and explore what they mean for schools across our state. Each Friday, I cover key legislative actions affecting teacher compensation, school accountability, curriculum standards, student rights, and more. Here are some highlights from this week's episode: ✅ SB 146 – Teacher Compensation (PASSED 13-0): Increases the minimum teacher salary from $40K to $45K per year. ✅ HB 1499 – School Accountability (PASSED 13-0): Changes exemptions for students in the ML cohort for IREAD. ✅ HB 1634 – Math Education (PASSED 12-0): Adjusts proficiency standards to better support student learning. ✅ HB 1660 – Student Absences for FFA & 4-H (HELD): Discusses mandatory excused absences for student participation in these programs. With only a few more weeks of legislative activity ahead, we'll continue to track the bills that will soon impact your schools and your students. Together, we're paving the path to progress in Indiana education!
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from our Assistant Principal Liaison and Associate Principal at Chesterton High School, Mrs. Kristen Peterson, and guest Michelle Roach, Assistant Principal/programmer at Benjamin Bosse High School. They are joining us for our “through the Assistant Principal Lens” series today to share their expertise on the Universal Design for Learning Framework, otherwise known as UDL.
Stay informed on the latest legislative developments impacting education in Indiana! In this week's episode of the IASP Legislative Update podcast, I provide an update from the Indiana General Assembly, covering key discussions and decisions affecting school leaders. Additionally, Dr. Bess shares insights on IASP's work in national advocacy, highlighting how we are ensuring Indiana's voice is heard on a broader stage. Don't miss this important update—listen now and stay engaged in the conversations shaping our schools!
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Rachel Anderson and Christy Chappell with Khan Academy and Khanmigo as they share their newest integrations and resources to support Indiana learning. If you would like to know more, you can head over to khanacademy.org or if you are a school corporation and looking for more information, you can visit districts.khanacademy.org.
The Indiana General Assembly is back in session, and so are we! Tune in to this week's episode of the IASP Legislative Update Podcast for the latest insights on how legislative decisions are shaping the future of education in Indiana. Every Friday, I break down the key developments from the Statehouse, keeping you informed and empowered to advocate for your schools and students. This week, we're covering: ✅ House and Senate Education Committee discussions ✅ Key bills moving through the legislative process ✅ Insights from the IASP Board of Directors on advocacy efforts For a refresher on how the legislative session works, click here! Thank you for your dedication to Indiana's students. Keep listening, keep advocating, and let's navigate these legislative changes together!
Join us for this episode of the IASP Leadership podcast. A weekly podcast production containing short, sweet, nuggets of Wednesday wisdom for our leadership growth. In this episode, we hear from Allison Leedie and Lori Anderson about Khan Academy Kids and how this free resource can support Indiana students.
I'm eager to share the latest episode of the IASP Legislative Update podcast with you! This week, during the halftime break of the Indiana General Assembly, I had the privilege of hosting Senator Raatz, Chair of the Senate Education Committee. In our conversation, we dive into Senator Raatz's: Background in Education: Discover how some of Raatz's experience in education is shaping his current viewpoints Advocacy: Raatz discusses effective methods for sharing your views with legislators Educational Priorities: Senator Raatz shares his vision and the key initiatives driving educational reform.