It’s been SAId: Conversations on leadership

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.

Partnering with the community to support students with Laura Medberry

Join SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy as she gains an insightful look into College Community's comprehensive system of supports for students from Laura Medberry, the district's executive director of learning supports.This episode showcases the district's comprehensive and collaborative approach to supporting the holistic well-being of students, involving community partnerships, trauma-informed practices, data-driven decision-making, and a shared vision for meeting students' social, emotional and behavioral needs.

When Tragedy Strikes - A District and Building Response with Jason Toenges

Tragic. Sudden. Terrible. Words to describe a moment when death or tragedy strikes your school. But what should you do next? Often, we are unprepared for these events because we've never thought about them in advance. Join SAI President and Union High School Principal Jason Toenges as he provides real-life stories and considerations if you are ever faced with a death or tragedy in your building or district.

Creating a continuum of supports for student mental wellness with Jenny Barnett

Join SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy as she discusses the mental wellness continuum of supports implemented by the Harlan School District with Superintendent Jenny Barnett. This conversation will not only explore Harlan's successful strategies, but also equip you with valuable tips on finding additional resources to bolster student mental health in your own community.
Learn more about creating a supportive school environment where students can thrive.