It’s been SAId: Conversations on Leadership

Part II: Athletics Classification Conversation with IHSAA and IGHSAU

In this episode of It’s Been SAId, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with Tom Keating and Erin Gerlich. Tom serves as the executive director of the Iowa High School Athletic Association and Erin is the executive director of the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union. Together, they provide their unique perspectives on the complex topic of the classification system.
Learn how the IHSAA and IGHSAU actively partner with districts to provide resources and problem-solve to provide the best possible experience for high school students participating in athletics and activities.

How Does the Classification System Impact the Competitive Nature of Iowa High School Sports?

In this episode of It’s Been SAId, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with Olwein Community School District Superintendent Josh Ehn. He serves on the SAI Representative Council and has his referee certification.
Josh has been active in reaching out to the Boards of Control to bring to light the negative effects a classification system can have on the competitive nature of sports. Together, Lisa and Josh discuss this important topic impacting Iowa high school athletics.

Hear About SAI's Upcoming 50th Annual Conference Celebration

In this episode of It’s Been SAId, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with SAI's Associate Professional Learning Director Al Neppl. His role oversees the annual conference, which is held each August.
SAI will celebrate its 50th conference August 5-6, 2025. Listen to what members can expect at this milestone event.

Why SAI's Individualized Coaching Program is for EVERY Iowa Administrator

In this episode of It’s Been SAId, Dr. Lisa Remy welcomes SAI Professional Learning Director Dr. Dana Schon as a co-host. Together, they talk with Ankeny Community School District Assistant Superintendent Dr. Darin Haack. 
Remy and Schon are two of four Iowa administrators who offer SAI's leadership coaching. Haack recently went through the individualized program with one of the other coaches. The three of them discuss how SAI’s Leadership Coaching program helped him in his role. They also address how coaching can enhance an administrator’s leadership skills, amplify their impact, and foster sustainable change.

Advice on How to Create Thriving Relationships with Your School's PTO

In this episode of It's Been SAId, Dr. Lisa Remy talks to PTO Answers Founder Christina Hidek who provides helpful insight and advice on how schools can develop thriving partnerships with their PTOs or PTAs. Hidek shares pitfalls some schools face and how to overcome them to build a stronger community.

How Winterset Community Schools is Addressing Chronic Absenteeism...and is Seeing a Difference

In this episode of It's Been SAId, Dr. Lisa Remy talks with three leaders from Winterset Community Schools. Director of Teaching and Learning Corey St. John, Coordinator of Student Services Kendra Alexandra, and Winterset Junior High Principal Josh Sussman share the philosophy and tactics they use to see an improvement in student and staff attendance.

Supporting Administrator Wellness through CATCHLIFE30

In this episode, SAI Executive Dr. Lisa Remy talks with Rick Shupbach, founder of the CATCHLIFE30 program.
Rick shares why he started CATCHLIFE30 in 2015 and why he's chosen to focus much of his efforts around supporting administrators. He also explains the five areas of focus and how the program can help an individual wherever they are on their health journey.

Introducing New SAI Communications Director Laine Buck

In this episode, SAI Executive Director Dr. Lisa Remy talks with Laine Buck, the newest member to the SAI team. Buck recently replaced Tracy Harms who served as the communications director for over two decades.
Learn about Laine's background and how she came to this role at SAI. She shares her goals regarding the role and provides timely suggestions for administrators as they embark on a new school year. Laine is eager to get to know superintendents and administrators across the state. Get to know her a little through this podcast, then reach out to her through email or a phone call. She will be a valuable resource to you.

Olympic-level leadership with Dr. Ian Roberts

In this episode, SAI Executive Director Dr. Lisa Remy talks with Dr. Ian Roberts, Des Moines Public Schools superintendent and former Olympian. Dr. Roberts shares his unique perspective on leadership, combining the intensity of athletic competition with the complexities of education.
Learn how his journey from special education teacher to superintendent has shaped his empathetic leadership style. Discover practical strategies for building strong school communities, addressing chronic absenteeism and fostering a culture of continuous learning. This episode offers invaluable insights and inspiration.

Reflection and planning with Jason Groendyke

This episode features a conversation between SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy and 2024 Iowa Elementary Principal of the Year Jason Groendyke from Sheldon, who offers insights on effective planning, data-driven decision-making, and fostering a positive school culture.Listeners can expect key takeaways on
The importance of early planning — starting the planning process for the next school year in spring, particularly April and May.
Using a student-centered approach — the importance of keeping students at the forefront of all decision-making, using four key questions to guide planning and instruction.
Collaborative leadership — the value of collaborating with administrative teams, building leadership teams, and staff members when making decisions and planning for the school year.
Data-driven decision-making — using data, such as climate surveys, to inform changes and improvements in school culture.
Professional development strategies — organizing effective professional development for staff and setting clear expectations.
Building school culture — strategies for fostering a positive school climate, including implementing restorative practices and incorporating student feedback.
Embracing discomfort for growth: The discussion emphasizes the importance of being comfortable with discomfort to promote personal and professional growth.