AWSP News for June 26, 2020

Hello and welcome to another episode of AWSP News.

Congratulations for making it through probably one of the craziest school years ever and certainly nothing that you ever imagined.

We recognize that you probably don’t feel like celebrating because of the uncertainty of how school will look in the fall. However, just like I said last week, you need to celebrate the impact of your incredible leadership this last year while also providing yourself some time to step away, rest, reflect, and recharge.

There are still more questions than answers about the reopening of schools, so we strongly encourage you to step away right now while some of the dust continues to settle. We will continue to engage with decisions happening at the state level and are committed to keep you informed throughout the summer. This is normally our last broadcast of the school year, but if we have information you need to hear throughout the summer, we’ll make sure you get it. Now please, go disconnect and take a much needed break while we continue to fight for you.

Speaking of dust settling, Superintendent Reykdal has been providing weekly updates as OSPI continues to work with the Governor’s Office, the Department of Health, CDC recommendations, and Labor and Industries. Those are a lot of agencies trying to navigate the when, how, and what school might look like in September. You can find his latest video in Principal Matters.

If you are watching this and saying, “I wonder if it’s too late to sign up for Summer Conference?” The answer is NO. It’s not too late. Sign up today and get access to amazing keynote speakers, breakout sessions, vendor giveaways, prizes, and some of our typical AWSP surprises. Remember, we just have a few live keynotes on Monday and Tuesday, so you only have to tune in for those and you can access the rest of the conference material later this summer or throughout the year. Join the other 1000 educators already registered for this amazing conference.

After you’ve taken a much needed mental health and recharging break, get ready for a line-up of professional learning and networking opportunities we’ll be offering in late July, August, and throughout the year. Like you, we’ll be providing face to face and virtual (synchronous and asynchronous) learning opportunities for all members. From learning how to build a rotating in-person and distance master schedule, to how to lead courageous conversations about race, we’ll be creating workshops to fit your needs. Stay tuned.

Requests for AWSL's Summer Leadership Days are coming in! Don't miss your chance to have AWSL come to your campus with this customizable program for your students. Summer Leadership Days will focus on self and social awareness, project planning, team building, culture, and climate.

Also, don’t forget your CheerLeaders–they need all the assistance they can to prepare for the fall! We are continuing to partner with NCA to develop opportunities for your Cheer squad.

Elementary and secondary programming will also be available throughout the fall, including our AWSL Fall Conference, where we are going virtual and will be expanding to include Middle Level. The “Elementary” program is going to be super, as in Super Heroes, while the “Secondary" program includes Find Your Vision!  and ¡La Chispa!  Visit AWSL's website for all program details!

And as long as you’re on their website, check out the mountain of resources for your equity journey. AWSL continues to collect information and tools for student leaders, educators, and parents. Please let them know how they can assist you and your team.  

One last student leadership note, our Learning Centers are back open for business. Give us a call at 360.497.7131 to find a space for your group’s retreat/refocusing session. We have several days open to host your group...Safety protocols are in place and we are ready to serve.

As another school year winds down, please take a minute to fill out our online change of status form if you will be changing positions, changing school districts, or retiring for the 2020-21 school year. An unwanted lapse in membership and important benefits may occur if there is a change to your current position and contact information that AWSP does not know about. The form should take less than 1 minute, and there's no need to log in. Questions? Email Membership Coordinator Annalee Braley or call 800.562.6100.

To wrap up this newscast I have one final and HUGE favor. Would you please take the time to nominate a fellow colleague for Principal and/or Assistant Principal of the Year. It blows me away that we don’t get more nominations. This should be a top priority for us all in order to show the world the important role school leaders play in the system. We need your help by nominating someone today. You can find the super duper easy nomination process on our website. Please, I beg of thee.

Well, that’s it from all of us here at AWSP. We’ll “virtually” see many of you next week at Summer Conference. Until then, keep up the great work for kids.