'25 MSAA Summer Institute

Sharon McMahon said in a podcast with Adam Grant, "You can't stop somebody who enjoys their important work in the world." In a session filled with much needed music and joy, we will challenge ourselves together to identify our own important work in the world. Regardless of our titles, we will have the opportunity to identify what it is we are currently doing in the positions we hold, what lives in our hearts that we would like to do, and the non-negotiables we are committed to taking with us wherever our careers take us. We will have time to tweak our own job descriptions, brainstorm ways in which we can share them, as well as consider ways in which we can ask others to do the same, even our students. As we share and learn from each other, we will dive into creating next steps in whatever journeys we are on so that we can lead in ways that empower us to do our important work in the world and enjoy it.

In today's educational landscape, school leaders and educators must be prepared to foster inclusive, affirming environments for all students. This session, "Renaissance Leadership: Creating Brave and Inclusive Spaces for LGBTQIA Youth & Adults in Schools," provides school leaders with practical strategies to ensure that LGBTQIA students-particularly those from historically marginalized backgrounds-feel valued, seen, and supported.

Designed with an emphasis on building leadership capacity in predominantly conservative or uncertain environments, this session will equip participants with the tools to navigate resistance, develop inclusive policies, and foster belonging among all students. The workshop is inspired by Beyoncé's Renaissance album, using themes of boldness, resilience, and authenticity to empower educators to lead with confidence and compassion.

Student Study Teams (SST) are collaborative groups within the MTSS framework that address students' academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs. This session will explain how the SSTs work within West Springfield Middle School, from early development to full implementation, with tangible takeaways for those ready to create a SST at their building.