It’s been SAId: Conversations on Leadership

Computer science at the elementary level with Ryan Marzen of Perry CSD

In this edition, SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy talks with Principal Ryan Marzen about Perry Elementary School's successful Computer Science Professional Development program.
The program has helped over 15 teachers earn computer science endorsements.
It has helped to nurture a passion for technology among students and promote innovative thinking.
The school has been able to provide state-of-the-art equipment, resources, and valuable learning to students, regardless of their background or ability.
The school aims to prepare students for future career opportunities and foster a generation of digital leaders.
So tune in to learn more about how Perry Elementary School is demystifying computer science and embedding it into instruction to prepare students for pathways to employment.
Here are some of the key takeaways from the podcast:
Perry Elementary's Computer Science Professional Development program is a success and is propelling this high-performing school.
It has helped nurture a passion for technology among students and promote innovative thinking.
Students are preparing for future career opportunities in computer science.
Teachers have developed their computer science skills and many are using the endorsement toward their pursuit of a master's degree.
Thanks for listening!

2023 Principals of the Year — Jake Feldmann, Dana Nally and Toby Young

For the 10th episode of the “It’s been SAId” podcast, host SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy is excited this month to welcome Elementary Principal of the Year Dana Nally from Bedford, Middle Level Principal of the Year Toby Young from MMCRU and Secondary Principal of the Year Jake Feldmann from Western Dubuque.
Listen as they share challenges they’ve faced and overcome, how they involve student and staff voice and foster innovation and creativity, and experience in the role itself.

2023 Central Office Administrator of the Year Chad Lang

Join us for this episode of It's been SAId as SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy chats with Central Office Administrator of the Year Chad Lang of Glenwood. They discuss the importance of evolving and adapting to prepare students for life outside the school doors. They also talk about technology in the classroom, an innovation center matching what's offered in schools with what jobs require, programs to help with teacher recruitment and retention, and community involvement.
This is a must-listen episode for anyone interested in education, innovation, and the future of work.

2023 Fine Arts Administrator of the Year Doug Jiskoot

Join SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy as she talks with 2023 Iowa Fine Arts Administrator of the Year Doug Jiskoot of West Lyon about supporting the arts in schools and the way his district celebrates students in all extracurriculars. Hear how students in his school have achieved through the success room and how you can be reminded of the students you've influenced even years later.

Iowa’s AEA System Facilitator & Great Prairie Chief Cindy Yelick, IASB Executive Director Lisa Bartusek & ISEA Executive Director Mary Jane Cobb

In this episode, SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy talks with three Iowa education organization leaders — Iowa's AEA System Facilitator and Great Prairie Chief Cindy Yelick, IASB Executive Director Lisa Bartusek and ISEA Executive Director Mary Jane Cobb. You’ll be inspired as they share their insights on leadership and making a difference in Iowa education.

2023 Assistant Secondary Principal of the Year Dustin Smith

Join SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy as she talks with 2023 Iowa Assistant Secondary Principal of the Year Dustin Smith of Nevada about a collaborative approach to discipline, building relationships with students, student internships, three pieces of advice for teachers, recruiting and retaining teachers, and taking a systems approach.

Iowa State Board of Education Student Member Alaina Whittington

Join SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy as she talks with Alaina Whittington, student member on the Iowa State Board of Education. Alaina talks about being a student in a small Iowa school, the importance of involving student voice, choices students can make in terms of academics, opportunities to learn outside the classroom and a chance to give back to the community.

2023 Superintendent of the Year Kristen Rickey

Join SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy and 2023 Superintendent of the Year Kristen Rickey of West Delaware Co. CSD as they discuss
getting through challenging times
clarifying direction for a district
learnings from Finland during a tour as a Fulbright Leader for Global Schools
setting goals and assessments to prepare students to be future ready
and much more!

Developing a Cohesive Leadership Team with North Scott CSD

In this episode, SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy talks with Superintendent Joe Stutting and Director of Curriculum and Instruction Bernie Brustkern from North Scott CSD as they revisit their standing-room-only SAI Annual Conference session on Developing a Cohesive Leadership Team. 
Hear what prompted them to pursue the work, the resources they've tapped, tips they'd offer and the results they've experienced.

NAESP Immediate Past President and former SAI President Paul Wenger

In celebration of National Principals Month, SAI Executive Director Lisa Remy talks with the National Association of Elementary School Principals Immediate President and 2016-17 SAI President Paul Wenger on
the qualities of best leaders,
how to create emotionally healthy organizations and
advice he gave when someone close to him chose to pursue the principalship.