On January 24, 2018, attorneys from Pullman and Comley LLC will present a legal workshop on transgender students’ rights and social media issues at the CAS office. The session will include a review of laws and court decisions relating to a school district’s legal obligations to students who identify themselves as transgender. There is no cost for attendance but registration is required.

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The CAS Principal of the Year Award Program was established in 1984 to bring recognition to high-achieving school principals and to increase public awareness of the critical role that principals play in the education of our youth. The program honors individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, a passion for educational excellence, a commitment to their students and staff, and service to their communities. If you know or work with an outstanding school principal, please consider nominating him or her for this prestigious award.

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This fall, the CAS student activities division introduced a new leadership initiative at the second and third grade level called “Little Leaders.” Thus far, two Little Leaders Conferences (LLCs) have been piloted with rave reviews. Remarked Dr. Carter Welch, principal of Totoket Valley Elementary School and co-organizer of the first LLC, “It was amazing to see students working together, seamlessly generating great ideas, enthusiasm, and learning. All the students came away with rich experiences in community service, problem solving, mentoring, gratitude, climate building, and overall leadership development. It is my hope that enthusiasm for this model spreads around the state so that we can continue this movement to empower and believe in our little leaders.” Additional LLCs are in the planning stages. Find out more!

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“If you’re an educator in this state, you should be actively pursuing opioid education in your school,” urges Assistant U.S. Attorney Rob Spector in the most recent episode of CASconversations. AUSA Spector talks about the alarming increase in opioid overdoses in Connecticut, the deadly rise in Fentanyl use, the urgent need for educating students and parents about the dangers of opioids, and the no-cost training and resources available to schools.

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Is there an extraordinary individual who has given his/her time, energy or expertise to your school? Has a local business provided services or resources which have resulted in positive learning experiences for your students? If so, please consider submitting a nomination for the CAS Distinguished Friend of Education Award. The deadline for nominations is January 12th.

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Across Connecticut, elementary administrators are doing incredible work. The Center for Leadership and Innovation is providing opportunities for elementary administrators to share their good work and learn from each other through regional round table discussions. The first topic of focus is “Promoting Positive School Climate” and it will be discussed at four model schools throughout the state. Each forum will run from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. with an overview from the host followed by a tour of the school and group discussion. There is no charge for attendance. Please join us for one – or all – of these idea-sharing sessions!

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Do you know someone who is involved in the arts and has demonstrated exemplary ‘heart’; has exceeded normal expectations in assisting others within the school community; or, has overcome adversity or a challenging circumstance? If so, please consider submitting a nomination for the “CAS Heart of the Arts Award.” This award recognizes students, adults or groups involved in high school performing or visual arts programs who exemplify the core values of education-based activities – i.e., integrity, citizenship, courage, good character. The deadline for nominations is January 24th.

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Has a new administrator made a big impact on your school? If so, the window to nominate him/her for the CAS First-Year Principal Award closes soon. This award recognizes individuals whose instructional leadership, innovative practices and managerial skills have had a positive impact on the school and district in their first year of school administration. One award is given at each level: elementary, middle and high school. The deadline for submitting nominations is January 11, 2018.

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Are you considering making a career leap to district leadership? The Executive Leadership Program through UConn’s Neag School of Education is a one-year program designed to provide aspiring superintendents and central office leaders with the background and knowledge necessary to successfully meet the challenges of district leadership in the 21st century. Interested educators are invited to attend an upcoming information session.

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The New England Secondary School Consortium’s ninth annual conference, School Redesign in Action: Learn + Lead for Equity, will be held March 12-13, 2018, at the R.I. Convention Center in Providence. This conference is designed for educators and stakeholders from across the country to share success stories, exchange best practices, and continue to build momentum for innovations that will prepare all students for success in the 21st century. Early bird registration is now open. Information can be found online at newenglandssc.org.

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