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score determined who was eligible for funding. We had a
number of programs that met the standard but we initially
didn’t have funding. We were fortunate (Department of
Human Services) stepped in and helped close the gap. Every
program that got a passing score of 60 or above got funded.
The question comes up over and over is why have a
competition? I am a firm believer in universal pre-K. I think
it’s the best investment we can make. Part of the issue was a
promise and commitment that was made before I was
in this role.
IASA:
Have you tried to improve the relationship with
superintendents in the field, some of whom may have
felt a disconnect with ISBE before?
Dr. Smith:
As a former district superintendent I have the
benefit of knowing when a state agency is working well and
has a good partnership and can be receptive and maybe
when it’s less than so.
In the time I’ve been in this role, I talked about being
deeply connected with districts and superintendents in
particular and have been pretty aggressive in getting out
and traveling and meeting with districts, whether going to
a chamber of commerce with superintendents or being in
schools with them.
I would say there’s been good and deep partnership work in
the last 3½ years.
IASA: Why did you start a new Superintendent’s Hotline?
Dr. Smith:
It’s just that ability to have that one-on-one
relationship to really facilitate deeper responsiveness.
Also, there are not a lot of people in the role of superintendent.
It was a chance to do some thought partnership.
We basically have my leadership team rotate days, and
if a superintendent calls, they’re going to get a person.
We’ve been getting four or five calls per day. People are
using it.
IASA:
Anything else on your mind?
Dr. Smith:
The continued growth of the competency-based
work in high schools.
The more we transition into the idea of moving on when
you’re ready and demonstrating learning, rather just having
seat time, I think it will be one of the most important things to
focus on. That is one of the things I’m most excited about.
I think it will help transform what teaching and learning looks
like across Illinois.
2018 ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Sept. 26–28, 2018
—Springfield, IL
th