2025 Leadership Forum Sessions
Thursday, March 20:
10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Senate Suites 2-3
Align People First - Then Strategy for Impact
Session Description: Healthy teams are not an accident. We lead people then manage projects. This session will focus on a few practical tools to support your leaders' move from monitoring compliance to deepening commitment. We will focus on gaining insights from those closest to the work, highlighting a few strategies to improve core processes and solve problems more effectively. Support your leaders in getting “unstuck." Change is doable and improvement is possible.
Presented by:
Dr. Pat Greco, Senior Director of Thought Leadership, Studer Education
Deans Hall 1
Differentiated by Design
Session Description: This session leverages the innovative practices of providing differentiated structures of professional learning for teachers and staff within the confines of structures such as instructional calendars, CBAs, and other PDE requirements. There will be a strong emphasis on differentiating learning not just for students but for adults.
The presenters will share a process for determining the content, format, and feedback loops associated with professional learning for both faculty and administrative staff. They will describe how this process is mirrored by the processes used to design classroom instruction in the Garnet Valley School District. Participants will leave this session with ideas for aligning both professional development and classroom instructional practice with the principles of the effectively designed instruction (EDI) framework, allowing participants to facilitate growth for all of the learners they serve (including adult learners).
Presented by:
Dr. Leslee Hutchinson, Assistant Superintendent, Garnet Valley School District
Ms.Julie Devine, Supervisor of Digital and Online Learning, Garnet Valley School District
Deans Hall 2
Empowering High School Students to Lead
Session Description: The Leadership Academy at Kennett High School is a transformative initiative empowering students to become leaders in their school and community. Established in 2024, this program is a cornerstone of the Kennett Future Ready initiative, designed to prepare students for success beyond graduation. This session showcases how the Leadership Academy blends leadership development, service learning, internships, and innovative thinking to create a dynamic and impactful experience for students. Participants will learn about the Academy’s structured monthly leadership series, partnerships with local professionals, and the integration of cutting-edge opportunities such as dual enrollment and school and community problem solving. By fostering hands-on involvement in real-world challenges, the Academy equips students with the leadership skills critical for college, careers, and beyond.
This presentation will provide actionable insights and strategies for replicating the Leadership Academy in other educational settings. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of how to develop a sustainable student leadership program that enhances student agency, strengthens community partnerships, and drives innovation in education. Join us to explore how this replicable model can inspire the next generation of student leaders in your schools.
Presented by:
Dr. Lorenzo DeAngelis, Principal, Kennett Consolidated School District
Mr. Dean Ivory, Supervisor of Innovative Programs, Kennett Consolidated School District
Room 106
Multi-Tiered School-University Partnerships: A Viable Solution to Addressing the Teacher Shortage
Session Description: Last year, the highest number of teachers in Pennsylvania left their positions to date (Fuller, 2022). The teacher shortage is a complex problem involving many factors like an adequate supply of new teachers, valued perceptions of the teaching profession, appropriate teacher pay, a collaborative school culture and climate, teacher career advancement, and more. Complex problems require complex solutions. Addressing the teacher shortage will require a re-imagining of the ways in which school districts and colleges of education work together in and on teacher education.
This interactive session will engage participants in deepening their understanding of building and implementing multi-tiered partnerships. Participants will see examples of multi-tiered partnerships in action from both rural and urban contexts and learn about the infrastructure required to design, sustain, and fund multi-tiered partnerships from school and university leaders engaged in the work. Since challenges sometimes seem like insurmountable roadblocks to partnership, we will work with participants to identify challenges in their contexts and engage them in productive conversations through protocols to generate ideas.
Presented by:
Dr. Jennifer Murray, Superintendent, Reading School District
Dr. Rebecca West Burns, Dean, College of Education, Kutztown University of PA
Dr. Cathy Taschner, Superintendent, Schuylkill Valley School District
Room 107:
Brighter Beginnings: A Brain-First Approach to Behavior Management in Young Learners
Session Description: HASD staff will discuss the components of executive functioning (Inhibitory Control, Working Memory, and Cognitive Flexibility), what it means to be Kindergarten ready, and how we implement the programming into the Kindergarten classroom. Specifically, our staff will discuss the implementation of Fueling Brains programming with our EI, Pre-K, Kindergarten, Newcomers, and Emotional Support students in several classrooms. The Fueling Brains approach will be discussed including targeted coaching and support.
Presented by:
Mr. Daniel Diehl, West Hazelton Principal
Mr. Robert Mehalick, Assistant to the Superintendent, Hazelton Area School District
Mr. Jeffrey Weed, Assistant Director of Special Education, Hazelton Area School District
Dr. Anil Karim, Chief Executive Officer, Fueling Brains
Dr. Antonio Corrales, Chief Strategy Officer, Fueling Brains
Thursday, March 20:
1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Senate Suites 2-3
For What and to Whom? The Most Critical of All Accountability Questions
Session Description: There are two ways schools answer the question of “For What and to Whom? when thinking about accountability that will lead to two very different, even contradictory places. If we answer, “to the state for high or rising test scores” the organization that results is a test-taking machine that can preserve the organization by repeating whatever happened the last time scores went up, while not providing what the students need.
If the answer is, “to the students for educational benefits,” the organization that results is one centered on the specific needs of the students, with the added requirement that it constantly shape itself for the future. Accountability is at the heart of answering that question properly. In this workshop we will explore several ways to get to the right answers.
Presented by:
Mr. John Tanner, Founder and Executive Director, bravEd
Deans Hall 1
Increase Instructional Time with a Four Day Workweek for Teachers
Session Description: Discover how California Area School District reimagined the traditional school schedule by implementing a four-day teacher work week while maintaining a five-day student schedule. In this session, learn how this innovative model increased instructional time, improved teacher attendance, and strengthened our ability to attract and retain top talent in today’s competitive job market.
We’ll explore the strategic planning process behind this bold change, including stakeholder engagement, scheduling logistics, and compliance with state educational requirements. See how we structured teacher workdays to maximize professional development, collaborative planning, and personalized student support.
Presented by:
Dr. Laura Jacob, Superintendent, California Area School District
Deans Hall 2
Moving from an Adult-Focused to a Student-Outcome Focused School Board
Session Description: The purpose of the school board is to develop student-outcome-based goals aligned to the district comprehensive plan to drive the overall success of the students, and ultimately, the district. Why is that so difficult for many boards to do? Many school boards are professionally ineffective because they are focused on conducting the adult inputs-focused operations of the school system.
To be effective, a school board needs to be focused on inspiring improvements in instructional quality to drive the increase in what students need to know and are able to do. Student outcomes don’t change until adult behaviors change; therefore, changing adult behavior is a powerful lever for improving student outcomes. To be effective, school board members must engage in a never-ending continuous improvement process which is built on the following foundational cornerstones: Focus Mindset, Clarify Priorities, Monitor Process, Align Resources, and Communicate Results.
Presented by:
Dr. Lisa Hess, Superintendent, Governor Mifflin School District
Room 106
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone: Harnessing Partnerships for Change
Session Description: This presentation will explore the transformative potential of strategic partnerships that allow a fresh perspective to challenge historical practices and conventional approaches, foster creative problem-solving, and drive impactful change in your district. Attendees will gain insights into the value that exterior collaboration brings to addressing complex challenges and the value-add that is possible with strategic partnerships given the historic human capital challenges leaders are facing. Participants will learn how leveraging external expertise can provide tailored results that align with district goals, which allows the school system leader to use the results to drive strategic priorities.
Additionally, this presentation will share strategies for evaluating the impact and effectiveness of contributions from industry allies, further strengthening school system leaders' confidence in utilizing external expertise on complex matters. By the end of the session, school system leaders will have a deeper understanding of the value that strategic partnerships can provide as a compliment to their existing resources and own educational expertise.
Presented by:
Dr. Jason Bottiglieri, Superintendent, Northeastern York School District
Mr. Chris Celmer, President/ Senior Consultant/ Owner, Devopar Consulting
Room 107
Having a Coaching Conversation with your Building/School Leaders Using the School Leader Paradigm.
Session Description: The job of a school leader requires both “becoming” an effective leader and “doing” the work. This “becoming while doing” is essential, whether you are a new or a veteran leader. The School Leader Paradigm addresses both the “becoming” (e.g., improving each day) and the “doing” (e.g., the actual work of a learning leader leading a learning organization). The “becoming” side of the paradigm addresses three intelligences: personal, social and systems.
The “doing” side comprises three domains of the work of school leaders: culture, systems and learning. Join the PA Principals Association as they provide an overview of the PA Principals Leadership Excellence series and the tools to have a coaching conversation with your school leaders.
Presented by:
Dr. Eric Eshbach, Executive Director, PA Principals Association
Dr. Michael Snell, Assistant Executive Director, PA Principals Association
Thursday, March 20:
2:45 to 3:45 p.m.
Senate Suites 2-3
From Challenges to Chances: Leveraging Setbacks as Catalysts for Innovation
Session Description: In the ever-evolving world of education, challenges often serve as the springboard for groundbreaking change. This presentation, "From Challenges to Chances: Leveraging Setbacks as Catalysts for Innovation," explores how educational leaders can transform obstacles into opportunities for creativity, growth, and transformative practices. Drawing on real-world examples and actionable strategies, this session focuses on turning adversity into a platform for innovative solutions. Participants will examine how setbacks such as resource constraints, disengagement, and shifting educational demands can spark creativity and foster resilience within their school communities.
The session will cover essential topics, including reimagining learning structures, building collaborative cultures, and designing systems that support both academic success and emotional well-being. Special emphasis will be placed on mentorship as a powerful tool for navigating and overcoming challenges. Attendees will discover how effective mentoring relationships can empower leaders, foster innovative thinking, and build capacity to address complex issues.
By highlighting strategies for fostering a growth mindset and promoting equity, participants will learn how to lead their schools and districts through moments of uncertainty with confidence and vision. The presentation aims to inspire educational leaders at all levels to transform challenges into chances, positioning themselves and their organizations as pioneers of educational innovation.
Presented by:
Dr. Tina Kane, Superintendent, Marple Newtown School District
Deans Hall 1
Portrait of a Graduate - Origin Story (1 of 2)
Session Description: During this session, participants will gain an understanding of why creating future-focused learning targets for students, in collaboration with stakeholders, is an important first step in system reform. Through this interactive session, participants will learn how taking this step can help set a new vision for the district. Participants will learn a step-by-step process on how to create a PoG that reflects research and community values.
Presented by:
Dr. Brian Troop, Superintendent, Ephrata School District
Deans Hall 2
Empowering Rural Education: An Innovative Online Learning Solution by Having It Your Way
Session Description:This presentation demonstrates an innovative approach that was developed to adjust to the learning needs of students following the pandemic and in response to the ever-growing competitive nature of public education. Learn how the Bearcat Institute of Learning and Development (BILD) assisted the district in maintaining enrollment, preserving community connections, and remaining fiscally responsible by having its innovative online learning program. Attendees will explore how the program’s flexibility and focus on personalized learning address common challenges rural schools face, such as limited course offerings, less flexibility in scheduling, and students enrolling in cyber charter schools.
The program began as an online learning model in response to COVID-19 but has evolved into a thriving learning option. Participants will learn how to turn a district-run online program into a genuine differentiated opportunity for students with varied options, turning education into “your way.”
Through real-world examples and actionable insights, participants will learn how an online program can empower your district to provide high-quality, student-centered education while maximizing resources. Whether you’re a district leader, educator, or community stakeholder, this session will provide practical strategies for implementing this innovative solution in your school district.
Presented by:
Mrs. Jennifer Mitchell, Superintendent, Huntington Area School District
Mrs. Anita Young, Online Learning Director, Huntington Area School District
Room 106
Igniting Student Passion: Connecting Schools with the Real World through a Business Symposium
Session Description: This session will explore innovative strategies to deepen student learning. Engage students in high-interest, collaborative inquiry about local businesses and the career pathways within them. Foster real-world connections and meaningfully connect students with real-world businesses and community stakeholders. Promote student agency by encouraging student collaboration as they simulate the work within their chosen businesses.
Nurture student passions by cultivating learners' interests through a culminating Business Symposium celebrating their learning about the business world. Discover how we utilize a "mini-city" housed within our school library as an engaging and immersive backdrop for understanding real-world concepts about the economy, entrepreneurship, and community interdependence. Key takeaways will include: practical strategies for building strong school-community partnerships, engaging and innovative approaches to career exploration, proven methods for fostering student collaboration and creativity, and a replicable model for implementing a successful Business Symposium.
Presented by:
Mrs. Rachel Sebastian, Librarian, Governor Mifflin School District
Room 107
The Great Refresh of Pennsylvania Student Services: Supporting All Pennsylvania Students Effectively and Efficiently
Session Description: Pennsylvania has an existing school infrastructure designed to support student needs – Student Services (22 Pa. Code Chapter 12). While schools are required to outline written, comprehensive, and integrated plans of student services, there is a lack of continuity from one school district to another on what these services are and how effectively they are delivered.
As student mental health needs have increased, school districts increasingly seek ways to respond, but decades of ambiguity, underfunding, and minimal accountability has resulted in student services programs that are ripe for a refresh. Pennsylvania has over 10,000 school counselors, school nurses, school psychologists, school social workers, home and school visitors, and administrators who are uniquely trained, certified, and employed by our school districts, our cyber/charter schools, our intermediate units, and our career and technical centers.
The Pennsylvania Coalition of Student Services Associations (PACSSA) came together in 2023 to advocate for sustainable and constitutional school funding to support student services professionals and programs, and has been working together to cast a vision for a revitalized framework for student services in Pennsylvania schools. In this session, you will learn about the history and structure of student services in Pennsylvania, how certified student services professionals work together to support students and staff, and how your school district can maximize this existing infrastructure to effectively and efficiently improve student outcomes.
Presented by:
Mr. Adam Oldham, High School Counselor
Ms. Angelina Romano, School Social Worker
Mrs. Becky Kilfoy, School Nurse, Pennsylvania Coalition of Student Services Associations (PACSSA)
Thursday, March 20:
4 to 5 p.m.
Senate Suites 2-3
Telling Your Story: Driving Engagement and Innovation Through Strategic Communication
Session Description: In an era of transformative education, effective communication and engagement are pivotal in driving innovation and fostering community support. This presentation, "Telling Your Story: Driving Engagement and Innovation Through Strategic Communication," will empower educational leaders to leverage communication as a strategic tool for achieving their mission. Attendees will learn how to craft a compelling narrative that aligns communication strategies with their organizational goals, enhancing transparency and reinforcing a learner-centered focus.
Through real-world examples and actionable insights, we will demonstrate how to elevate visibility by showcasing innovative programs and celebrating student and staff achievements. The session will also delve into strategies for building meaningful connections with diverse stakeholders, including staff, students, families, and community partners, to foster trust and collaboration. Presenters will highlight the importance of branding and marketing in establishing a unified identity that reflects organizational values and inspires engagement.
Finally, we will explore the role of data in measuring the success of communication efforts, identifying key performance indicators, and utilizing feedback to continuously refine strategies. By focusing on both innovation and accountability, attendees will leave equipped with practical tools and proven strategies to enhance communication efforts, amplify community support, and lead with confidence in today’s evolving educational landscape. This session promises to provide attendees with a dynamic blend of creative inspiration and hands-on tactics to transform how their organization communicates, collaborates, and innovates.
Presented by:
Mrs. Ashley Boyd, Communications Manager, Chester County Intermediate Unit
Mrs. Jennifer Chicosky, Marketing and Community Manager, Chester County Intermediate Unit
Deans Hall 1
The Coaching Connection: How Administrators and Coaches Strengthen a Culture of Professional Learning
Session Description: This session explores how administrators and instructional coaches can collaborate to build a culture of trust, collaboration, and professional growth in schools. Participants will examine actionable strategies for creating and sustaining coaching cycles that engage teachers and align with school-wide improvement goals. Key elements of coaching cycles, such as goal-setting, collaboration, reflection, and celebration of success, will be highlighted.
The session underscores the critical role administrators play in fostering coaching success by establishing a shared vision, providing time and resources, and cultivating a culture of trust. Attendees will learn how to align coaching with school priorities while respecting teachers' professional autonomy, communicate the purpose and value of coaching cycles to staff, and build systems that prioritize teacher growth. Strategies include scheduling protected time for coaching, co-analyzing data, and celebrating teacher progress. Participants will leave with concrete tools to empower coaches, support teachers, and create a culture where professional learning is teacher-driven, collaborative, and transformative.
This session will inspire a shift in professional learning from compliance to commitment, making a lasting impact on teaching and learning.
Presented by:
Ms. Ashley Vanegas, Instructional Coach, West Chester School District
Dr. Jennifer Southmayd, Principal, Fern Hill Elementary, West Chester School District
Deans Hall 2
Innovative Induction: Building Belonging and Professional Growth Through a Two-Year Onboarding Program
Session Description: In response to the new requirement for a 2-year Induction Program, the School District of Springfield Township has developed an innovative and comprehensive onboarding program that goes beyond the basics. Our approach not only supports new practitioners but also sets the stage for all newly hired professional educators, fostering a culture of belonging and continuous professional growth. By focusing on creativity, collaboration, and personalized pathways, our program ensures that every educator—whether new to the profession or transitioning from another district—receives the guidance and support they need to succeed.
Our two-year induction program is intentionally designed to build strong connections between staff members, leverage individual talents, and introduce our faculty to key district values, such as equity, collaboration, and a commitment to professional learning. Through highly engaging and job-embedded learning experiences, we provide educators with the tools they need to navigate district procedures, utilize resources, and implement effective instructional and assessment strategies. This presentation will showcase how our approach supports new faculty in becoming familiar with district expectations while fostering a sense of community and belonging that extends beyond the classroom.
Presented by:
Dr. Damian B. Johnston, Assistant Superintendent, School District of Springfield Township
Room 106
Building our Future Workforce Together through Teacher Apprenticeship Programs
Session Description: This workshop will inform attendees about the state of teacher apprenticeship programs in Pennsylvania. Attendees will understand the context of the need for teacher apprenticeship programs, be brought up to date on teacher apprenticeship programs in Pennsylvania, hear how apprenticeship programs may be connected to pre-apprenticeship / dual enrollment programs, and discuss with other experts in the room how their LEAs might support teacher apprenticeship in Pennsylvania.
Attendees will also have an opportunity to network with other attendees to share challenges and opportunities as they explore establishing registered teacher apprenticeship programs in their LEAs.
Presented by:
Dr. Alan Hack, Assistant Executive Director Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit #16
Mrs. Mallory Weymer, Grant Research and Development Manger, CSIU
Room 107
Roundtable with Educational Leaders on Building Global Competency and Travel Based Learning
Session Description: Join district leaders as they share about their professional learning experience exploring educational innovation, including trends in service learning, STEM, education systems, cultural awareness, and future readiness skills through travel-based learning throughout Panama, Japan, South Korea & the Dominican Republic.
They will reflect on the tangible takeaways they brought home to their districts to implement programming that builds global competency for staff and students in the district. They will discuss the importance of building global competency to support their students’ career and college readiness as well as steps taken to make their programs accessible. Attendees will leave with ideas to implement in their own districts as well as information about future global professional development opportunities through PASA.
Presented by:
Ms. Meghan Schafer, State Manager of Educational Partnerships, EF (Education First)
Dr. Mark Blanchard, Superintendent, Cumberland Valley School District
Dr. Tania Stoker, Assistant Superintendent,Northern Lehigh School District
Dr. Amanda Benolken, Director of Education, New Hope-Solebury School District
Dr. Erika Willis, Assistant Superintendent, Central Dauphin School District
Friday, March 21:
9:30 to 10:20 a.m.
Senate Suites 2-3
What Happens Next - What to do after you have a Portrait of a Graduate (2 of 2)
Session Description: Participants will learn how supporting the people and aligning the systems within a district is part of the ongoing work needed to prepare students ready to be successful in life beyond formal education. Highlights of this session will include strategies for embedding skills and dispositions from the PoG, engaging community members in shared work, elevating the importance of student agency throughout the K-12 education structure, and building a culture of belonging, hope, risk-taking, and agency.
Presented by:
Dr. Brian Troop, Superintendent, Ephrata Area School District
Dr. Rick Hornberger, Assistant Superintendent, Ephrata Area School District
Dr. Jacy Hess, Assistant Superintendent, Ephrata Area School District
Room 106
Using a Podcast to Tell Your District's Story
Session Description: Join Dr. Shawn T. Fitzpatrick, Superintendent of the Schuylkill Haven Area School District, for an engaging presentation on the power of podcasting in education. As the host of Deep Dive with Dr. Fitz, a weekly podcast showcasing the voices of students and staff, Dr. Fitzpatrick will share the inspiration behind the show and its mission to highlight meaningful insights from his school district. Participants will get a behind-the-scenes look at the interview process, hear compelling excerpts from past episodes, and explore how storytelling and leadership intersect to build stronger school communities. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or simply passionate about learning, this session will offer valuable takeaways on leadership, resilience, and the impact of authentic conversations.
Presented by:
Dr. Shawn Fitzpatrick, Superintendent, Schuylkill Haven Area School District
Room 107
Ne'er Do Well Leadership: There's More to It Than Meets the Eye
Session Description: In this engaging and thought-provoking panel session, the self-proclaimed "Ne'er Do Wells" of educational leadership will challenge conventional wisdom and explore the hidden dimensions of effective school leadership. Drawing on their diverse experiences leading innovation and change in Pennsylvania public schools, these four leaders will share practical insights, cautionary tales, and proven strategies for navigating the complex challenges of 21st-century education. Participants will gain a fresh perspective on what it takes to drive meaningful, sustainable innovation in schools. The panelists will share their approaches to fostering a culture of creativity and risk-taking, engaging and empowering diverse stakeholders, measuring the impact of innovative programs, and adapting school structures to support innovation.
Through a mix of storytelling, interactive Q&A, and group discussion, this session will provide intermediate-level content that is relevant to school leaders at all levels. Participants will leave with a renewed sense of purpose, a network of like-minded leaders, and a toolkit of practical strategies they can apply in their own contexts. Whether you're a seasoned superintendent or a new principal, this session will challenge your assumptions, sharpen your leadership skills, and inspire you to embrace your inner "Ne'er Do Well" in pursuit of better outcomes for all students. Join us for a candid and invigorating conversation about the future of educational leadership and innovation.
Presented by:
Dr. John Sanville, Superintendent, Unionsville- Chadds Ford School District
Dr. George Fiore, Executive Director. Chester County Intermediate Unit
Dr. David Christopher, Superintendent, West Chester Area School District
Dr. Samuel Lee, Superintendent, Bensalem Township School District
Friday, March 21:
10:30 to 11:20 a.m.
Senate Suites 2-3
Collaborate with your I.U. to Engaging Stakeholders: Leveraging Survey and Focus Group Data to Inform Decisions
Session Description: Do you want to get more insight into your organization through the eyes of your students, parents, and staff members? This session will focus on the process of school districts conducting focus groups and stakeholder surveys in partnership with Intermediate Units (IUs) to gather insights on trends and current perceptions from students, parents and staff. Participants will explore the benefits of sharing the results with the school community, including fostering transparency, building trust, engaging stakeholders, and identifying areas for growth and improvement.
Additionally, the session will explore how the Pennsylvania Essential Practices for Schools and Communities offer evidence-based strategies to improve teaching and learning, and how focus group and survey data can support schools in identifying their strengths and areas for growth in these areas.These practices focus on key pillars of school improvement, including: Empowering leadership: Establishing a culture of high expectations, a collective vision for teaching and learning, empowered staff, and the strategic allocation of resources. Fostering quality professional learning: Delivering professional development responsive to student and teacher needs, utilizing diverse learning designs, and evaluating the impact of professional learning.
Focus on Continuous Improvement of Instruction: Aligning curriculum, instruction, and assessment, supporting collaborative instructional planning, and employing a variety of assessments to monitor learning and address individual student needs. Providing student-centered support: Creating a positive school environment where all members feel welcomed, supported, and safe.
Presented by:
Dr. Lynn Fuini-Hetten, Superintendent, Salisbury Township School District
Ms.Tonya Swavely, Staff Development Facilitator, Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit
Room 106
Marketing and Proving your Vision
Session Description: Working with Your Parents and Community to Achieve the District’s Vision and Mission- This session will spotlight Pequea Valley School District’s innovative approach to providing credentialing opportunities for students, showcasing the collaborative efforts with their community to achieve these goals. Hear from Dr. Erik Orndorff, Superintendent Pequea Valley School District on how he leveraged the resources in his community to achieve these results. PVSD's First Choice Coordinator, Jared Erb will present resources to be efficient and include all students in your vision and Work-Based Learning.
Presented by:
Dr. Erick Orndorff, Superintendent, Pequea Valley School District
Mr. Jared Erb, First Choice Career Coordinator, Pequea Valley School District
Room 107
Building a Benefits-Based Accountability System: A Collaborative Journey
Session Description: The presentation, "Building a Benefits-Based Accountability System: A Collaborative Journey," will showcase the innovative partnership between two school districts and GDC IT Solutions in designing and implementing an accountability framework inspired by John Tanner's research. This benefits-based system shifts the focus from traditional compliance-driven metrics to meaningful outcomes that reflect student growth, community needs, and organizational effectiveness. The presentation will detail the process of identifying core educational goals, aligning district priorities with community expectations, and leveraging technology to gather and analyze actionable data. Attendees will gain insights into how the collaborative team integrated Tanner’s principles to emphasize purpose-driven accountability, such as fostering equity, promoting student engagement, and preparing learners for real-world success.
Key topics will include the system's design phase, challenges faced during implementation, and the tools and methodologies used to measure and communicate progress. The districts will share tangible examples of how this approach has empowered stakeholders—students, teachers, parents, and administrators—by providing transparent, meaningful performance insights. This session will also feature practical strategies for scaling the system to other educational settings, emphasizing adaptability and sustainability. Participants will leave equipped with actionable knowledge and resources to reimagine accountability in their own organizations, fostering systems that genuinely support and reflect the diverse benefits of public education.
Presented by:
Dr. Shane Hotchkiss, Director of Education, Innovation and Solutions, GDC IT Solutions
Dr. Richard Fry, Senior Consultant, GDC IT Solutions
Dr Robyn Euker, Assistant Superintendent, Cumberland Valley School District