LM Oct.2018

2018 ANNUAL CONFERENCE REVIEW Sept. 26–28, 2018 —Springfield, IL

“Every student deserves a quality educator. Do not stop kids from hope—you have to be on the other end of that for kids. Hope is measurable. Be ready to meet students where they are and to know and understand how to serve rather than just tell,” he said. “Every school needs to offer a safe and healthy learning environment for all students. Are you doing what it takes for kids to feel and be safe in your schools?” Smith discussed the importance of telling your school stories in your community and touched on ESSA and evidence-

based funding. He urged superintendents to reach out to legislators to encourage them to fully fund the school- funding formula. “All of you have a responsibility to share with your leaders,” Smith said. “Do as much as you can to get it fully funded by 2027.” Sue Enquist, the winningest NCAA Division I Softball Coach in the country who attained an unprecedented 11 National continued...

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