Andrew Almos serves as Superintendent of ISD 728, one of Minnesota’s largest and fastest-growing school districts. With a focus on strategic alignment, collaborative leadership, and continuous improvement, he is committed to ensuring every student has access to high-quality learning opportunities. Under his leadership, ISD 728 is strengthening its districtwide systems to connect vision to action and deliver measurable results for students and the communities it serves.

Session: From Vision to Action: Bringing the Strategic Plan to Life

Rachel Anderson is the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent at Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District. She has been a member of the district’s Standard Response Resource Team (SRRT) since its inception following the Briefings in Denver, Colorado, in 2022. Rachel played a pivotal role in the district’s rapid and effective implementation of the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) and Standard Reunification Method (SRM), achieving full adoption in less than a year. She serves as a key connector and collaborator with the district’s 13 member districts and community partners, and organized two large-scale trainings led by the “I Love U Guys” Foundation for regional educators and first responders. Rachel is also a certified SRP trainer.

Session: Leading Safe Schools: Implementing the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) for All Students 

Lori Andler serves as the Senior Officer of Administrative Services for Fridley Public Schools, where she supports the Superintendent and School Board and leads the Communications, Enrollment, and Technology departments. She thrives on bringing people and systems together to make operations run smoothly and communications shine. Lori has led projects that boost efficiency, improve access to resources, and strengthen connections between schools, families, and the community. Known for her collaborative approach and problem-solving mindset, she is passionate about creating systems that help students and staff succeed.

Session: Leading Through Crisis: Navigating Consecutive Threats and Violence with Clarity, Partnership, and Resilience 

Dr. Bailey is the Executive Director of the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, the agency responsible for overseeing teacher licensure and teacher preparation in Minnesota.

Session: Roundtable Licensing Discussion 

Jodi Bang is a Digital Learning Specialist at Kennedy High School in Bloomington, MN, where she supports teachers and students in using technology to enhance learning. A former math teacher, she now leads professional development and co-created an equity-focused AI implementation. She has presented at local and national conferences on innovative classroom tech use and recently led a webinar with Common Sense Media about setting AI expectations.

Session: Creating Clarity in Classrooms with AI Expectations

Dr. Katie Baskin is the Executive Director of Academics and Administrative Services at Austin Public Schools in Austin, Minnesota. With over 20 years of experience in education, she has served in various roles, including middle school math teacher and principal at multiple levels. She holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership and Policy Development at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Baskin is known for her dedication to academic administration and her commitment to providing exceptional educational experiences for students.

Session: Navigating Complexity: How Strategic Partnerships Help Districts Lead Through the Fog

Dr. Bryan Bass serves as Assistant Superintendent of Equity and Achievement for Osseo Area Schools, where he leads with a clear commitment to cultivating inclusive, supportive systems that center both people and performance. With over 20 years of experience spanning classroom instruction, school leadership, and district-level strategy, Bryan brings a deep understanding of how equity and excellence intersect in public education.

Session: The Promise of Public Education as a Place Where All Can Thrive

Since 2013, Jamie Bente has dedicated his career to serving the students, families, and staff of Faribault Public Schools, ISD 656. He has been the district's superintendent since July 2022. He earned his master’s degree in educational leadership and administration, along with his principal’s and superintendent’s licenses, from St. Mary’s University. He also holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Mount Union in Alliance, Ohio. Since becoming superintendent, Bente’s leadership has led to significant accomplishments across multiple areas. Under his guidance, the district successfully renewed a critical operating levy, ensuring continued funding for essential programs and resources.

Session: Stories from the Field: 3 Superintendents Share Improvement Strategies That Work

Dr. Val Rae Boe has presented nationally and locally on school safety and crisis management for the “I Love U Guys” Foundation, the Governor’s Conference on School Safety, the Minnesota School Safety Conference, and the Association of Educational Service Agencies (AESA). She has served Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District for 19 years, working extensively in special education environments and supporting students with diverse and complex needs. Dr. Boe brings deep expertise in adapting safety protocols for special education settings, blending practical experience with a passion for creating safe, supportive learning environments for all students.

Session: Leading Safe Schools: Implementing the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) for All Students

Susan Brott, APR, Senior Strategist, CESO Communications Susan is a seasoned school communications strategist with over 25 years of experience helping education leaders navigate complex issues, build trust, and lead with transparency. She specializes in stakeholder engagement, internal communications, and aligning culture with strategy. Susan partners with districts across the country to reframe engagement as a leadership mindset — one that empowers students, students, and families to co-author their district’s story and support mission-driven decision-making.

Session: From Stakeholders to Storyshapers: Reframing Engagement as a Leadership Strategy

Tonya Constantine is the Deputy Superintendent of Anoka-Hennepin Schools, Minnesota’s largest school district. She has served as a superintendent, principal, and assistant principal in both metropolitan and rural districts across the state, bringing a broad perspective on educational leadership. A certified Working Genius coach, Tonya is passionate about helping leaders and teams leverage their natural strengths to collaborate effectively and achieve meaningful results. 

Session: Genius at Work

Dr. Renee Corneille, Superintendent, St. Anthony-New Brighton Schools Renee is the superintendent of St. Anthony–New Brighton Schools (MN), where she leads with a deep commitment to equity, shared leadership, and community empowerment. With experience as a teacher, principal, and district leader, she brings an authentic, relationship-centered approach to engagement. Renee helps reframe how leaders listen, collaborate, and make decisions, modeling how engagement can become a leadership identity rather than a communications tactic.

Session: From Stakeholders to Storyshapers: Reframing Engagement as a Leadership Strategy

Rochelle Cox is a dynamic professional with extensive experience in the field of educational leadership. Known for her strategic vision and collaborative leadership style, Rochelle has built a reputation for delivering exceptional results throughout her career. Rochelle has developed expertise in instructional coaching, MTSS, health and safety and operations. Her analytical approach to problem-solving, combined with her innovation has enabled her to successfully navigate complex challenges and identify opportunities for growth and improvement. Prior to her current role as Assistant Superintendent at Fridley Public Schools, Rochelle held leadership positions at Minneapolis Public Schools, including Interim Superintendent, where she was instrumental in the creation of intervention triads, development of mental health student support strategies, and strategic planning . Her ability to build and mentor high-performing teams has been central to her success.

Session: Leading Through Crisis: Navigating Consecutive Threats and Violence with Clarity, Partnership, and Resilience 

Mark Diehl is the Executive Director of Operations for Little Falls Community Schools. Prior to his current role, he spent 16 years as the Director of Technology for the District. His passion to to create real world learning opportunities to give students the skills they need to pursue their career goals.

Session: Moving the Future on the Ground and Through the Air

Barb Dorn has led MSBA's Executive Search team since 2019, and during that time she has overseen more than 150 successful superintendent searches across Minnesota. Barb holds 30 years of experience in marketing and communications, consulting, and the development of common goals and shared decision-making processes. She is also a member of the National Affiliation of Superintendent Searchers (NASS).

Session: Spilling the Tea on Superintendent Search

Session: Both Sides Now

Kim Gibbons, Ph.D., is Director of CAREI at the University of Minnesota. She leads statewide initiatives to improve literacy and MTSS implementation. A national expert in assessment and evidence-based practices, she supports SEAs and LEAs through research, technical assistance, and leadership in data-driven instruction, policy, and educational improvement. Her most recent book, published in 2018, is Effective Universal Instruction: An Action-Oriented approach to Improving Tier 1.

Session: Navigating Complexity: How Strategic Partnerships Help Districts Lead Through the Fog

Dr. Jinger Gustafson is the Interim Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education for Anoka-Hennepin Schools. She has served as an associate superintendent, principal, and assistant principal, and has also been a practitioner in higher education at Minnesota State University, Mankato and Hamline University. Jinger brings extensive leadership experience and a deep commitment to fostering effective teaching and learning at all levels.

Session: Genius at Work

Tiffany Gustin is the Director of Management and Insurance Trust Services for the Minnesota School Boards Association. Before working for MSBA, she served as a school district Business Manager for ten years. Prior to working in school finance, she was a software engineer and database analyst in the private sector and worked in county government. In her spare time, she is a volunteer first responder, church pianist, and is the Chief Operations Officer of a crazy family made up of her husband, two adult children and way too many animals.

Session: Keep Calm and Crunch the Numbers

Session: Productive Struggle in the AI Era: Leading with Wisdom, Not Worry

Michael Hart serves as a Municipal Advisor to school districts across the state of Minnesota. His experience includes leading school districts through the financial aspects of bond issues and referendums for both capital projects and operating funds as well as long term financial planning.

Session: Talking Taxes with Your Community

With over 20 years of educational leadership experience, Dr. Kim Hiel is a values-driven leader committed to creating inclusive, supportive environments where students, staff, and communities can thrive. As Superintendent of Osseo Area Schools, she leads with a clear focus on achievement, belonging, and collaborative leadership, driving system-wide strategies that elevate voices and align people, programs, and purpose.

Session: Lead or Lag: The Urgent Case for High-Impact Leadership Teams

Dr. Matt Hillmann is the Superintendent of Schools in Northfield, Minnesota. Matt grew up in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in history at St. John’s University in New York City and a Master’s, Specialist, and Doctoral degrees from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Matt has nearly 30 years of public education experience as a teacher, coach, principal, and district-level leader in nearly every aspect of school administration. He is a past president of the Minnesota Association of School Administrators. In 2023, he was honored as the MASA Minnesota Superintendent of the Year and was named one of four finalists for the American Association of School Administrators National Superintendent of the Year award.

Session: Stories from the Field: 3 Superintendents Share Improvement Strategies That Work

Dr. Rev Hillstrom is one of this country’s foremost Indigenous scholars leading systemic change for educational excellence and equity. Through the pillars of The CLEAR Model (Culture, Learning, Equitable, Achievement and Responsive) he guides districts in generating the consciousness needed for conceptual, behavioral and structural transformation. Dr. Hillstrom is the founder of Intercultural Innovations, Inc. (I3), home of The CLEAR Model and The CLEAR Solutions Framework. He has served multiple large urban, suburban, and rural school districts across the country supporting systems as they work towards education excellence and equity. In addition, he promoted educational excellence and equity by serving with regional and national organizations including the National Urban Alliance (NUA) and the Minnesota Education Equity Partnership (MnEEP).

Session: Contested Spaces: Belonging and How District Leaders Can Make an IMPACT

Dr. Eric Hudspith serves as Superintendent of Waseca Public Schools, where he leads with a personal mission to ensure all students graduate with meaningful options for life after high school. With a background in teaching, principal leadership, and organizational development, he brings a practical, people-centered approach to leading through uncertainty. He is passionate about helping school leaders align strategy with culture and navigate change with clarity, resilience, and purpose. In addition to his work in Minnesota, Eric teaches courses in educational policy and evaluation to aspiring doctoral students across the globe with Edgewood University.

Session: Leading with Purpose Through Uncertainty and Change

Jake is a nationally recognized communicator with a background in school communications and expertise in storytelling. Before launching Captivate Media + Consulting, he spent over a decade in districts, gaining experience in strategic communications, media relations and engagement. He holds Accreditation in Public Relations and his leadership blends creativity with results-driven planning.

Session: From Decline to Breakthrough: How St. Cloud Schools Reversed Enrollment Loss and Gained $4M in One Year

Greg Johnson has been Superintendent at Little Falls Community Schools since 2022. Prior to Little Falls, he was the Superintendent in Albany. During his time with Little Falls, Greg has worked to align the District's curriculum and finances while still providing new and meaningful opportunities for students.

Session: Moving the Future on the Ground and Through the Air

Amy Jordan has more than 25 years of leadership experience with a focus on recruitment, training, creating partnerships, and program management and evaluation. Having served three years as a Search Lead for MSBA's Executive Search services, Amy is a natural cultivator of the potential in others and in building strong superintendent-board relationships. She is also a member of the National Affiliation of Superintendent Searchers (NASS).

Session: Spilling the Tea on Superintendent Search

Rick Kaufman is a nationally recognized leader in school safety, emergency management, and crisis communications. He co-led the Columbine High School Crisis Response Team and has spent the past 30 years helping school leaders across the country strengthen their prevention, response, and recovery efforts. Drawing from his frontline experience in some of the nation’s most tragic school incidents, Rick brings a candid, practical perspective on what works and what needs to change. Today, he continues to train and advise districts, state agencies, and law enforcement on behavioral threat assessment and crisis leadership.

Session: Lessons from the Unthinkable: Behavioral Detection Failures and Fixes

Jason Knighton-Johnson is a passionate and engaging DEI trainer. He currently serves as the Director of Educational Equity for Mounds View Public Schools. He has a rich background with over 25 years of experience in project management, team leadership, organizational change, and coaching. Jason’s equity work is focused on creating sustainable systems change through intuitive systems tools. By injecting humor and real-world experience into his sessions, Jason creates an engaging environment while training, believing in the Indigenous epistemology that all knowledge ever will exist within each of us. Jason views his role as a facilitator to draw out within as we work as Individuals Making Positive Academic Change Together.

Session: Contested Spaces: Belonging and How District Leaders Can Make an IMPACT

Brenda Lewis, Ph.D. is a passionate and innovative educator with over 25 years of experience in the field of education. She is an equity warrior who is an advocate for students with learning differences, multilingual learners and historically underserved students with a keen eye for building systems and leading her schools to attain academic excellence for all students. Additionally, she has led innovative work, including bringing AVID into her district, significantly increasing student achievement as a champion of tutoring and professional learning about Equity and establishing a H1-B visa program in her district to eliminate unfilled positions. During her 25 years in the field of education, Dr. Lewis has been an executive level leader at the district level for over 10 years. She has served in a variety of roles in education as a paraeducator, classroom teacher, assistant principal, principal assistant superintendent and is currently serving as the Superintendent of Fridley Public Schools in Minnesota.

Session: Leading Through Crisis: Navigating Consecutive Threats and Violence with Clarity, Partnership, and Resilience

Whitney joined World Savvy in 2021 and has served as a Professional Learning Facilitator and National Director of School Partnerships before stepping into the role of Interim Chief Program Officer. With 14 years of experience as a teacher, instructional coach, and assistant principal, Whitney brings a deep passion for curriculum design, instructional leadership, and educational equity.

Session: Leading the Shift: How Schools Can Build Skills for an Unpredictable Future

Dr. Mueller is an experienced educational leader and superintendent who has been nationally recognized for her work in school communication. She leads the Donovan Group’s efforts in twelve different states. For six years, Dr. Mueller served as superintendent of the School District of Baraboo in south central Wisconsin. In that time, she led significant continuous school improvement through district strategic planning processes.

Session: Building Strategic Safety Plans and Trust with Your Community

Candace Nelis has served as the Business Manager at Cloquet Public Schools since 2015, and previously worked in the same role at Eveleth Gilbert Schools. She graduated from UW Superior, and is the current President of MASBO, the Minnesota Association of School Business Officials.

Session: Both Sides Now

Jamie Nord is the Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Educational Services for ISD 728, overseeing curriculum, instruction, and special services for the district’s elementary schools. She is passionate about building cohesive systems that align district priorities with daily practice to improve student outcomes. Jamie brings expertise in implementation science and collaborative leadership to drive continuous improvement across schools.

Session: From Vision to Action: Bringing the Strategic Plan to Life

Mrs. Debby Odell - Mrs. Odell is the Licensing and Operations Manager for the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, the agency responsible for overseeing teacher licensure and teacher preparation in Minnesota.

Session: Roundtable Licensing Discussion

Christine Tucci Osorio is a prominent figure in the field of education and community development, with a focus on advocating for underrepresented communities. She has extensive experience in curriculum design and works with various non-profit organizations to improve educational access and promote equity in schools. She is a Board Member on the Board of School Administrators.

Session: BOSA: Your Partner in Navigating a Changing Landscape

Dr. KK Owen, leader coach with Studer Education, works with superintendents and K12 district and school leaders in districts around the nation on continuous improvement practices from the lens of leaders. She has presented with her district superintendent partners as they share their improvement strategies at national events including AASA, Carnegie, What's Right in Education, Destination High Performance. KK will moderate the panel of three distinguished superintendents who will present their stories of success in improvement science.

Session: Stories from the Field: 3 Superintendents Share Improvement Strategies That Work

Anthony Padrnos is a visionary leader and innovative educator redefining how technology drives learning and systems transformation in K–12 education. With over 15 years of experience as a teacher, coach, administrator, and executive, he currently serves as Executive Director of Technology for Osseo Area Schools. A recognized authority in digital strategy, cybersecurity, and instructional technology, Anthony has been featured in EdTech Magazine and is a sought-after speaker at national and state-level conferences, including MASA and MinnSPRA. He has presents with the Learning Counsel and is known for delivering insights that inspire action. Anthony was honored with MASA’s Central Office Leadership Award and inducted into CoSN’s Volunteer Hall of Fame for his service and influence in edtech strategy.

Session: Smart Tech, Safe Schools: AI Policy Demystified

Dr. Joey Page is the Superintendent of Austin Public Schools, having assumed the role on July 1, 2021. He has a strong educational background, holding a bachelor's degree in Special Education and Elementary Education from Dakota State University and a Doctorate of Education from St. Mary’s University-Twin Cities. Before his current position, he served as the Superintendent of Byron Public Schools and has held various leadership roles throughout his career, including being a principal and a member of the Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association. Dr. Page is actively involved in his community and has focused on fostering a positive school culture and climate.

Session: Navigating Complexity: How Strategic Partnerships Help Districts Lead Through the Fog

Dr. Kent Pekel is Superintendent of Schools in Rochester, Minnesota. Before beginning his tenure in Rochester in 2021, he was President and CEO of Search Institute and was also Executive Director of the College Readiness Consortium at the University of Minnesota. He has held senior staff positions at the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education. He has been an administrator in Saint Paul Public Schools and a teacher in Bloomington Public Schools.

Session: The School Improvement Game

Dr. Jon Peterson brings over 20 years of experience in E-12 public and private education leading programs, schools and services in large, urban educational settings. His extensive work with legislators and education stakeholders has helped shaped significant policy for students and schools in Minnesota. In addition to his scholarly work at the University of St. Thomas, M.A. in Public Policy and Ed. D. in Leadership, he is also a published author. His 2018 book, "Uncovering Indigenous Models of Leadership," provides a case study and ethnographic example of how equity, and specifically race and cultural equity, contribute to improved leadership within education.

Session: Safe & Supportive Schools: Leading Responsibly and Ethically in the Changing Immigration Landscape

Session: Talking Taxes with Your Community

Laurie Putnam is an award-winning education leader and the 2025 Minnesota Superintendent of the Year, recognized for her commitment to creating safe, welcoming, and thriving school communities. With a background in counseling and a doctorate from St. Cloud State University, Laurie brings a deep understanding of student needs and a strategic vision for public education. She has served St. Cloud Area Schools in roles from assistant principal to superintendent, championing equity, academic excellence, and strong community partnerships. Known for her collaborative leadership, Laurie believes the success of schools and the community are inseparable, and works every day to ensure all students graduate prepared for their future.

Session: From Decline to Breakthrough: How St. Cloud Schools Reversed Enrollment Loss and Gained $4M in One Year

John Regan is the Executive Director of Business Services for ISD 728, overseeing finance, operations, and resource management for one of Minnesota’s largest school districts. He is committed to aligning fiscal strategy with the district’s strategic priorities to maximize resources in support of student success. John’s leadership ensures transparent, efficient, and sustainable systems that drive continuous improvement across the district.

Session: From Vision to Action: Bringing the Strategic Plan to Life

-2025 Region 7 Administrator of Excellence -Four Years USMC Honorable Discharge Sgt -35 Years Education (Teacher, Coach, Activities Dir. Asst. Principal, K-12 Principal/Supt. and finally Superintendent. -2011 Hazelton Alumni

Session: Still Waters: How Serenity Shapes Strong Educational Leaders

Dr. Kari Rock is the Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Educational Services for ISD 728, leading efforts to enhance teaching, learning, and student engagement across the district’s middle and high schools. She is dedicated to aligning strategic priorities with innovative practices that prepare students for success beyond graduation. Dr. Rock leverages her background in instructional leadership and data-driven decision-making to foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Session: From Vision to Action: Bringing the Strategic Plan to Life

With more than 30 years immersed in K–12 education, Donna Roper leads the charge in blending meaningful assessment and responsible AI integration in St. Cloud schools. Currently overseeing research, assessment and AI Integration, she is deeply committed to using AI in ways that honor both ethical clarity and thoughtful innovation. As a key founder of the Minnesota Generative AI Alliance (MNGAIA) for Education, she has proven to be a strong advocate for the wise and strategic use of AI to evolve what students learn and how they learn it.

Session: Productive Struggle in the AI Era: Leading with Wisdom, Not Worry

Karen Schaub has served for the last four years as the Executive Director for the Minnesota Board of School Administrators (BOSA). Her career in public education spans over 40 years and includes experience as a Community Education Director.

Session: BOSA: Your Partner in Navigating a Changing Landscape

Ashli Schmaltz is the Digital Learning Specialist at Jefferson High School in Bloomington. She's an English and Spanish teacher who centers the student experience and strives to make content accessible and equitable for each and every student.

Session: Creating Clarity in Classrooms with AI Expectations

Dr. Jeremy Schmidt has served as a superintendent in Minnesota for over a decade, leading with a focus on student growth, staff development, and community engagement. Dr. Schmidt has over a decade of experience in governance, finance, leadership, and strategic planning. His experiences at Lester Prairie and Becker School Districts have proven his ability to lead small and mid-size districts. Dr. Schmidt advocates strongly for public education and works to support building and department leaders to thrive in complex and changing environments.

Session: Leadership in Action: Practical Tools Support You and Lead Your Team

Dr. Jeremy Schmidt has served as a superintendent in Minnesota for over a decade, leading with a focus on student growth, staff development, and community engagement. Dr. Schmidt has over a decade of experience in governance, finance, leadership, and strategic planning. His experiences at Lester Prairie and Becker School Districts have proven his ability to lead small and mid-size districts. Dr. Schmidt advocates strongly for public education and works to support building and department leaders to thrive in complex and changing environments.

Session: Leadership in Action: Practical Tools Support You and Lead Your Team

Dr. Teri Staloch is a dedicated educational leader with more than 30 years of experience across the full spectrum of education. From working as an English teacher to serving as superintendent of large public school systems, she has proven to be a transformational leader with an unwavering commitment to providing equitable opportunities for all students, and safe, inclusive, and thriving environments for learners and educators.

Session: Leading the Shift: How Schools Can Build Skills for an Unpredictable Future

Dr. Kurt Stumpf - Dr. Stumpf is currently in his fourth year as the Pequot Lakes Public Schools Superintendent. He was appointed to a 4-year term on the PELSB board starting in July 2023, representing Superintendents.

Session: Roundtable Licensing Discussion

Dr. Josh Swanson serves as the superintendent of Eden Prairie Schools. After working in the private sector, he has held numerous within public school districts over the past 27 years and served at the cabinet level for over 17 years. He is passionate about student and adult learning, continuous improvement, and building strong community support for public education. He is known for innovation, brining student voice and leadership to the forefront, and building aligned strategic direction and engagement. This has resulted in increased opportunities for students, positive student outcomes and experiences, extremely strong community support for our schools, and most importantly a steadfast focus on serving each student.

Session: Flight Plan 2035: Leading Community-Driven Innovation at the Crossroads

Ms. Felicia Thames is a highly respected veteran educator and leader. She has served as a classroom teacher, middle school dean of students, elementary assistant principal and principal, middle school principal, and Assistant Superintendent. Felicia is serious about learning, but always brings fun to her work. As a result she has the deep respect of students, staff, and families.

Session: Flight Plan 2035: Leading Community-Driven Innovation at the Crossroads

Dustin Vincent is the District Safety Coordinator for Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District. He serves as a resource and trainer for staff on the Standard Response Protocol (SRP), Standard Reunification Method (SRM), Raptor, threat assessments, and the Incident Command System (ICS). Dustin conducts site safety audits, provides guidance during drills, and works closely with member districts and government agencies. As a member of the district’s Standard Response Resource Team, he plays a key role in advancing safety practices across the district. Dustin began his career as a middle school physical education teacher for 17 years before transitioning to school safety eight years ago. He has also served as a volunteer firefighter for the past decade.

Session: Leading Safe Schools: Implementing the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) for All Students

Robb Virgin, PhD, is Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education for Eden Prairie Schools. His previous roles include high school principal, assistant principal, teacher educator, and teacher. He is known for his work to elevate student voice and leadership, lead innovation efforts, and support the growth and development of other educational leaders.

Session: Flight Plan 2035: Leading Community-Driven Innovation at the Crossroads

Jamin Wood is the Facilities and Operations Manager at Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District, where he has provided safety leadership for 17 years. He founded the district’s Standard Response Resource Team, leading all members to attend the Briefings in Colorado in July 2022. Jamin spearheaded a collaboration with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Department to establish a unified response using the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) and Standard Reunification Method (SRM) for all Ramsey County schools and the district’s 13 member districts. He served as the district’s lead on the complex design and safety features of three new special education buildings and has led the district’s Threat Assessment Team for six years. A certified SRP trainer and a firefighter for 25 years, Jamin brings hands-on expertise and a deep commitment to safe, secure learning environments.

Session: Leading Safe Schools: Implementing the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) for All Students

Session: Leading at the Crossroads: Curiosity, Connection, and the Courage to Stay in Non-Closure

Nan Yurecko brings over three decades of experience in E-12 public schools as a licensed teacher, principal, and district administrator. Her work has spanned both urban and suburban school districts where she has designed and facilitated training aimed at building the equity consciousness and culturally responsive capacity among educators and stakeholders. Providing professional development focused on educational equity for multiple audiences, and her background in special education, reflects her dedication to creating inclusive educational environments that validate, engage, challenge and support each student. In addition to her credentials, Nan has participated in further leadership study at University of Pittsburgh's Learning Research and Development Center and Harvard University.

Session: Safe & Supportive Schools: Leading Responsibly and Ethically in the Changing Immigration Landscape

Dr. Brian Zambreno has been the Superintendent of South St. Paul Public Schools since March of 2022. He has been in public education for almost 25 years. As a teacher, he taught students with disabilities as well as students who were recent to the United States. He was encouraged by colleagues and supervisors to pursue roles in leadership. In his leadership opportunities he has coordinated English Learner programming for the state's largest English Learner program, served as an assistant principal at the elementary and middle levels, been a middle level principal, and supervised over 30 schools as an associate superintendent.

Session: Stories from the Field: 3 Superintendents Share Improvement Strategies That Work

Dr. Annette Ziegler is the Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education for Anoka-Hennepin Schools. She has served as an associate superintendent, principal, and assistant principal, and has dedicated more than two decades to the Anoka-Hennepin community. Annette’s long-standing leadership and deep understanding of the district’s culture have helped strengthen relationships and drive continuous improvement across its schools.

Session: Genius at Work