2025 Leadership in Education Conference
2025 Leadership in Education Conference
2025 Leadership in Education Conference
Join us for a dynamic professional development event focused on leadership in education, where expert speakers will explore the power of culture, data, AI, behavior systems, and real-world leadership lessons. Walk away with practical strategies to lead thriving schools, foster positive environments, and navigate the evolving educational landscape with confidence.
Join us for a dynamic professional development event focused on leadership in education, where expert speakers will explore the power of culture, data, AI, behavior systems, and real-world leadership lessons. Walk away with practical strategies to lead thriving schools, foster positive environments, and navigate the evolving educational landscape with confidence.
Join us for a dynamic professional development event focused on leadership in education, where expert speakers will explore the power of culture, data, AI, behavior systems, and real-world leadership lessons. Walk away with practical strategies to lead thriving schools, foster positive environments, and navigate the evolving educational landscape with confidence.
Tuesday, October 21
Tuesday, October 21
Tuesday, October 21
8:20 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
8:20 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
8:20 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Location: Vogel Room, Northwestern College
Location: Vogel Room, Northwestern College
Location: Vogel Room, Northwestern College
Registration pricing
Registration pricing
Registration pricing
Individual: $95
Group rate (6 or more): $80 each
Add-on credit available: 1 License Renewal credit: $35
1 Graduate credit: $150
Micro-credential: $20 (After registering for the conference, use the micro-credential registration form.)
Individual registration Group registration
Register by October 15. Please contact the office of Graduate + Professional Studies with any questions about the event or registration at gpsevents@nwciowa.edu or 712-707-7388.
Individual: $95
Group rate (6 or more): $80 each
Add-on credit available: 1 License Renewal credit: $35
1 Graduate credit: $150
Micro-credential: $20 (After registering for the conference, use the micro-credential registration form.)
Individual registration Group registration
Register by October 15. Please contact the office of Graduate + Professional Studies with any questions about the event or registration at gpsevents@nwciowa.edu or 712-707-7388.
Individual: $95
Group rate (6 or more): $80 each
Add-on credit available: 1 License Renewal credit: $35
1 Graduate credit: $150
Micro-credential: $20 (After registering for the conference, use the micro-credential registration form.)
Individual registration Group registration
Register by October 15. Please contact the office of Graduate + Professional Studies with any questions about the event or registration at gpsevents@nwciowa.edu or 712-707-7388.
Schedule
Schedule
Schedule
8:00 - 8:20 a.m. |
Check-in | |
8:20 - 8:30 a.m. |
Welcome + Announcements | |
8:30 - 9:45 a.m. |
Opening Session Explore how a thriving school culture is the cornerstone of high-performing organizations. In this keynote, we’ll examine real-world examples of how intentional culture-building transforms staff engagement, student outcomes, and community trust. Participants will leave inspired and equipped with practical ideas to nurture a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered. | |
|
Breakout Session 1: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
10:00 - 10:45 am |
Culture-Building for Leaders | Dr. Jared Smith | Vogel Room Designed specifically for principals and administrators, this session will dive into actionable strategies leaders can use to set the tone for a positive culture. We’ll discuss how to model core values, align practices with vision, and lead through challenges without losing focus on relationships and purpose. |
Reaching All Students: Implementing Universal Design for Learning in the Classroom | Dr. Heather Hayes + Ashley Stanislav | VPH 213 UDL has the power to reach all students, from the ones who need the most challenge to the ones who need the most support. This session will introduce educators to the practicality of UDL by offering chances to use some of its tools as we walk through an overview of the guidelines and share how UDL has been implemented in a local high school classroom.
|
|
Breakout Session 2: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
11:00 - 11:45 am |
Culture-Building for All | Dr. Jared Smith | Vogel Room |
Shared Instructional Leadership: Lessons from Experience | Jill Hulshoff + Chelsey Kurtzleben | VPH 213 |
11:50 a.m. -12:45 p.m. |
Lunch | Vogel Room | |
|
Breakout Session 3: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
12:45 - 1:30 p.m. |
Administrative Uses of Artificial Intelligence - Maximizing the Power of Data | Sandy Groom-Meeks | Vogel Room Nobody became an administrator to sift through spreadsheets and evaluations. What if AI could do the heavy lifting? This session shows how tools like NotebookLM can help you quickly make sense of data — test scores, teacher reviews, resumes — and save time by spotting patterns and supporting smarter decisions. No jargon, just practical AI for the work you’re already doing. |
Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS) | Terry Hemann + Jackie Christensen | VPH 213 Acknowledging a nationwide trend of increasing disruptive behaviors among younger students, Spencer Schools has proactively implemented a new, comprehensive approach to address these challenges. This initiative, known as the Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS) program, is a behavioral management system designed to integrate support for students with behavioral issues directly within the general education setting. PASS prioritizes individualized programming, delivering targeted social skills instruction alongside consistent behavior monitoring and coaching for both students and educators. By focusing on the development of self-management skills and utilizing data-driven decision-making, the program aims to enhance academic and behavioral outcomes in mainstream environments, thereby reducing the necessity for more restrictive educational placements. |
|
Breakout Session 4: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
1:45 - 2:30 p.m. |
Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom – The Next Chapter | Sandy Groom-Meeks | Vogel Room AI is already in the classroom — what’s next? This session explores how teachers, students, and leaders are using AI to enhance lesson planning, student support, feedback, and personalized learning, all while prioritizing the human touch. We’ll also address ethics, policies, and effective everyday use. Whether new or experienced with AI, you’ll gain practical tips and fresh inspiration for your next steps. |
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year | Matt Van Voorst, Noah DeYager, Nicole Roder | VPH 213 In the summer of 2024, leaders of the Rock Valley Community School District were faced with the unimaginable—devastating flooding that impacted their entire district and abruptly halted all plans for the upcoming school year. Overnight, their focus shifted from strategic goals to crisis response, navigating uncharted territory to ensure students could return to learning in a safe and healthy environment. In this session, district leaders will share their firsthand experiences—what they faced, how they adapted, and the critical decisions that shaped their response. More importantly, they will reflect on the 2024–2025 school year and the powerful leadership lessons learned in the midst of adversity—lessons that continue to inform their long-term strategies and vision for the future. |
2:40 - 3:25 p.m. |
Closing Session Culture is the lifeblood of any team or organization. We will examine strategies in developing a culture that creates an environment for all members of an organization to thrive and pursue their best. We will also discuss the importance of creating a consistent culture the fosters sustained “success”. |
8:00 - 8:20 a.m. |
Check-in | |
8:20 - 8:30 a.m. |
Welcome + Announcements | |
8:30 - 9:45 a.m. |
Opening Session Explore how a thriving school culture is the cornerstone of high-performing organizations. In this keynote, we’ll examine real-world examples of how intentional culture-building transforms staff engagement, student outcomes, and community trust. Participants will leave inspired and equipped with practical ideas to nurture a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered. | |
|
Breakout Session 1: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
10:00 - 10:45 am |
Culture-Building for Leaders | Dr. Jared Smith | Vogel Room Designed specifically for principals and administrators, this session will dive into actionable strategies leaders can use to set the tone for a positive culture. We’ll discuss how to model core values, align practices with vision, and lead through challenges without losing focus on relationships and purpose. |
Reaching All Students: Implementing Universal Design for Learning in the Classroom | Dr. Heather Hayes + Ashley Stanislav | VPH 213 UDL has the power to reach all students, from the ones who need the most challenge to the ones who need the most support. This session will introduce educators to the practicality of UDL by offering chances to use some of its tools as we walk through an overview of the guidelines and share how UDL has been implemented in a local high school classroom.
|
|
Breakout Session 2: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
11:00 - 11:45 am |
Culture-Building for All | Dr. Jared Smith | Vogel Room |
Shared Instructional Leadership: Lessons from Experience | Jill Hulshoff + Chelsey Kurtzleben | VPH 213 |
11:50 a.m. -12:45 p.m. |
Lunch | Vogel Room | |
|
Breakout Session 3: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
12:45 - 1:30 p.m. |
Administrative Uses of Artificial Intelligence - Maximizing the Power of Data | Sandy Groom-Meeks | Vogel Room Nobody became an administrator to sift through spreadsheets and evaluations. What if AI could do the heavy lifting? This session shows how tools like NotebookLM can help you quickly make sense of data — test scores, teacher reviews, resumes — and save time by spotting patterns and supporting smarter decisions. No jargon, just practical AI for the work you’re already doing. |
Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS) | Terry Hemann + Jackie Christensen | VPH 213 Acknowledging a nationwide trend of increasing disruptive behaviors among younger students, Spencer Schools has proactively implemented a new, comprehensive approach to address these challenges. This initiative, known as the Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS) program, is a behavioral management system designed to integrate support for students with behavioral issues directly within the general education setting. PASS prioritizes individualized programming, delivering targeted social skills instruction alongside consistent behavior monitoring and coaching for both students and educators. By focusing on the development of self-management skills and utilizing data-driven decision-making, the program aims to enhance academic and behavioral outcomes in mainstream environments, thereby reducing the necessity for more restrictive educational placements. |
|
Breakout Session 4: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
1:45 - 2:30 p.m. |
Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom – The Next Chapter | Sandy Groom-Meeks | Vogel Room AI is already in the classroom — what’s next? This session explores how teachers, students, and leaders are using AI to enhance lesson planning, student support, feedback, and personalized learning, all while prioritizing the human touch. We’ll also address ethics, policies, and effective everyday use. Whether new or experienced with AI, you’ll gain practical tips and fresh inspiration for your next steps. |
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year | Matt Van Voorst, Noah DeYager, Nicole Roder | VPH 213 In the summer of 2024, leaders of the Rock Valley Community School District were faced with the unimaginable—devastating flooding that impacted their entire district and abruptly halted all plans for the upcoming school year. Overnight, their focus shifted from strategic goals to crisis response, navigating uncharted territory to ensure students could return to learning in a safe and healthy environment. In this session, district leaders will share their firsthand experiences—what they faced, how they adapted, and the critical decisions that shaped their response. More importantly, they will reflect on the 2024–2025 school year and the powerful leadership lessons learned in the midst of adversity—lessons that continue to inform their long-term strategies and vision for the future. |
2:40 - 3:25 p.m. |
Closing Session Culture is the lifeblood of any team or organization. We will examine strategies in developing a culture that creates an environment for all members of an organization to thrive and pursue their best. We will also discuss the importance of creating a consistent culture the fosters sustained “success”. |
8:00 - 8:20 a.m. |
Check-in | |
8:20 - 8:30 a.m. |
Welcome + Announcements | |
8:30 - 9:45 a.m. |
Opening Session Explore how a thriving school culture is the cornerstone of high-performing organizations. In this keynote, we’ll examine real-world examples of how intentional culture-building transforms staff engagement, student outcomes, and community trust. Participants will leave inspired and equipped with practical ideas to nurture a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered. | |
|
Breakout Session 1: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
10:00 - 10:45 am |
Culture-Building for Leaders | Dr. Jared Smith | Vogel Room Designed specifically for principals and administrators, this session will dive into actionable strategies leaders can use to set the tone for a positive culture. We’ll discuss how to model core values, align practices with vision, and lead through challenges without losing focus on relationships and purpose. |
Reaching All Students: Implementing Universal Design for Learning in the Classroom | Dr. Heather Hayes + Ashley Stanislav | VPH 213 UDL has the power to reach all students, from the ones who need the most challenge to the ones who need the most support. This session will introduce educators to the practicality of UDL by offering chances to use some of its tools as we walk through an overview of the guidelines and share how UDL has been implemented in a local high school classroom.
|
|
Breakout Session 2: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
11:00 - 11:45 am |
Culture-Building for All | Dr. Jared Smith | Vogel Room |
Shared Instructional Leadership: Lessons from Experience | Jill Hulshoff + Chelsey Kurtzleben | VPH 213 |
11:50 a.m. -12:45 p.m. |
Lunch | Vogel Room | |
|
Breakout Session 3: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
12:45 - 1:30 p.m. |
Administrative Uses of Artificial Intelligence - Maximizing the Power of Data | Sandy Groom-Meeks | Vogel Room Nobody became an administrator to sift through spreadsheets and evaluations. What if AI could do the heavy lifting? This session shows how tools like NotebookLM can help you quickly make sense of data — test scores, teacher reviews, resumes — and save time by spotting patterns and supporting smarter decisions. No jargon, just practical AI for the work you’re already doing. |
Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS) | Terry Hemann + Jackie Christensen | VPH 213 Acknowledging a nationwide trend of increasing disruptive behaviors among younger students, Spencer Schools has proactively implemented a new, comprehensive approach to address these challenges. This initiative, known as the Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS) program, is a behavioral management system designed to integrate support for students with behavioral issues directly within the general education setting. PASS prioritizes individualized programming, delivering targeted social skills instruction alongside consistent behavior monitoring and coaching for both students and educators. By focusing on the development of self-management skills and utilizing data-driven decision-making, the program aims to enhance academic and behavioral outcomes in mainstream environments, thereby reducing the necessity for more restrictive educational placements. |
|
Breakout Session 4: Choose from one of the presentations below | |
1:45 - 2:30 p.m. |
Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom – The Next Chapter | Sandy Groom-Meeks | Vogel Room AI is already in the classroom — what’s next? This session explores how teachers, students, and leaders are using AI to enhance lesson planning, student support, feedback, and personalized learning, all while prioritizing the human touch. We’ll also address ethics, policies, and effective everyday use. Whether new or experienced with AI, you’ll gain practical tips and fresh inspiration for your next steps. |
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year | Matt Van Voorst, Noah DeYager, Nicole Roder | VPH 213 In the summer of 2024, leaders of the Rock Valley Community School District were faced with the unimaginable—devastating flooding that impacted their entire district and abruptly halted all plans for the upcoming school year. Overnight, their focus shifted from strategic goals to crisis response, navigating uncharted territory to ensure students could return to learning in a safe and healthy environment. In this session, district leaders will share their firsthand experiences—what they faced, how they adapted, and the critical decisions that shaped their response. More importantly, they will reflect on the 2024–2025 school year and the powerful leadership lessons learned in the midst of adversity—lessons that continue to inform their long-term strategies and vision for the future. |
2:40 - 3:25 p.m. |
Closing Session Culture is the lifeblood of any team or organization. We will examine strategies in developing a culture that creates an environment for all members of an organization to thrive and pursue their best. We will also discuss the importance of creating a consistent culture the fosters sustained “success”. |
Speakers and topics
Speakers and topics
Speakers and topics
Dr. Jared Smith
Author | Superintendent | Waterloo Community School | Waterloo, IA
Keynote speaker
Topics:
The Power of a Positive Culture
Culture Building for Leaders
Culture Building for All
Dr. Jared Smith is the Superintendent of the Waterloo (Iowa) Community School District. With more than 10,000 students and 1,700 employees, Waterloo is among the 10 largest school districts in Iowa.
Jared has taught and coached at both the middle school and high school levels. Prior to becoming a superintendent, Jared worked as an assistant principal and principal for ten years.
Jared holds a BA in Elementary and Middle Level Education from the University of Northern Iowa, an MS in Educational Leadership from National Louis University, and a PhD in Educational Leadership from Iowa State University.
Jared is an award-winning blogger, professional speaker, adjunct professor, and author of three books, including the Amazon Best Seller Turning Points: More Lessons Learned on Leadership, Education, and Personal Growth.
Dr. Jared Smith
Author | Superintendent | Waterloo Community School | Waterloo, IA
Keynote speaker
Topics:
The Power of a Positive Culture
Culture Building for Leaders
Culture Building for All
Dr. Jared Smith is the Superintendent of the Waterloo (Iowa) Community School District. With more than 10,000 students and 1,700 employees, Waterloo is among the 10 largest school districts in Iowa.
Jared has taught and coached at both the middle school and high school levels. Prior to becoming a superintendent, Jared worked as an assistant principal and principal for ten years.
Jared holds a BA in Elementary and Middle Level Education from the University of Northern Iowa, an MS in Educational Leadership from National Louis University, and a PhD in Educational Leadership from Iowa State University.
Jared is an award-winning blogger, professional speaker, adjunct professor, and author of three books, including the Amazon Best Seller Turning Points: More Lessons Learned on Leadership, Education, and Personal Growth.
Dr. Jared Smith
Author | Superintendent | Waterloo Community School | Waterloo, IA
Keynote speaker
Topics:
The Power of a Positive Culture
Culture Building for Leaders
Culture Building for All
Dr. Jared Smith is the Superintendent of the Waterloo (Iowa) Community School District. With more than 10,000 students and 1,700 employees, Waterloo is among the 10 largest school districts in Iowa.
Jared has taught and coached at both the middle school and high school levels. Prior to becoming a superintendent, Jared worked as an assistant principal and principal for ten years.
Jared holds a BA in Elementary and Middle Level Education from the University of Northern Iowa, an MS in Educational Leadership from National Louis University, and a PhD in Educational Leadership from Iowa State University.
Jared is an award-winning blogger, professional speaker, adjunct professor, and author of three books, including the Amazon Best Seller Turning Points: More Lessons Learned on Leadership, Education, and Personal Growth.
Sandy Groom-Meeks
Teach Integration Consultant | Northwest Iowa
Topics:
Administrative Uses of AI - Maximizing the Power of Data
AI in the Classroom - The Next Chapter
Sandy Groom-Meeks is a Northwest Iowa-based Tech Integration Consultant with 30+ years in public school technology. She co-authored AI Express: Leading the Future of Learning (Fall 2025), a guide to implementing AI in schools. Sandy’s experience includes roles as Elementary Teacher, Tech Instructional Coach, Tech Director, and University adjunct. She holds a B.S. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and a Master’s in Technology Based Learning.
Passionate about classroom tech, Sandy partners with teachers and administrators to improve learning. She’s helped schools create AI policies & PD, build standards-aligned elementary computer science curricula, secure STEM grants, and launch makerspaces. Her impact extends through active roles with MOC-Floyd Valley AI Task Force, Iowa Digital Learning Project, NCC IT Advisory Committee, NWAEA Advisory Committee, and as a regional tech speaker.
When not helping schools wrestle with tech, Sandy’s busy justifying yet another gadget purchase — because if it beeps, blinks, or syncs, it’s in her Amazon cart.
Sandy Groom-Meeks
Teach Integration Consultant | Northwest Iowa
Topics:
Administrative Uses of AI - Maximizing the Power of Data
AI in the Classroom - The Next Chapter
Sandy Groom-Meeks is a Northwest Iowa-based Tech Integration Consultant with 30+ years in public school technology. She co-authored AI Express: Leading the Future of Learning (Fall 2025), a guide to implementing AI in schools. Sandy’s experience includes roles as Elementary Teacher, Tech Instructional Coach, Tech Director, and University adjunct. She holds a B.S. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and a Master’s in Technology Based Learning.
Passionate about classroom tech, Sandy partners with teachers and administrators to improve learning. She’s helped schools create AI policies & PD, build standards-aligned elementary computer science curricula, secure STEM grants, and launch makerspaces. Her impact extends through active roles with MOC-Floyd Valley AI Task Force, Iowa Digital Learning Project, NCC IT Advisory Committee, NWAEA Advisory Committee, and as a regional tech speaker.
When not helping schools wrestle with tech, Sandy’s busy justifying yet another gadget purchase — because if it beeps, blinks, or syncs, it’s in her Amazon cart.
Sandy Groom-Meeks
Teach Integration Consultant | Northwest Iowa
Topics:
Administrative Uses of AI - Maximizing the Power of Data
AI in the Classroom - The Next Chapter
Sandy Groom-Meeks is a Northwest Iowa-based Tech Integration Consultant with 30+ years in public school technology. She co-authored AI Express: Leading the Future of Learning (Fall 2025), a guide to implementing AI in schools. Sandy’s experience includes roles as Elementary Teacher, Tech Instructional Coach, Tech Director, and University adjunct. She holds a B.S. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and a Master’s in Technology Based Learning.
Passionate about classroom tech, Sandy partners with teachers and administrators to improve learning. She’s helped schools create AI policies & PD, build standards-aligned elementary computer science curricula, secure STEM grants, and launch makerspaces. Her impact extends through active roles with MOC-Floyd Valley AI Task Force, Iowa Digital Learning Project, NCC IT Advisory Committee, NWAEA Advisory Committee, and as a regional tech speaker.
When not helping schools wrestle with tech, Sandy’s busy justifying yet another gadget purchase — because if it beeps, blinks, or syncs, it’s in her Amazon cart.
Terry Hemann
Superintendent | Spencer Community School District | Spencer, IA
Topic:
Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS)
Terry Hemann is an education professional with 32 years of K-12 experience, including 20 years as a school superintendent. He holds a Master of Science in Education Administration from Drake University and a Superintendent Licensure from Cardinal Stritch University. Since 2011, he has served as Superintendent for the Spencer Community School District, where his responsibilities include collaborating with the school board, leading the administrative team, and engaging with the community. Under his leadership, the district has focused on financial stability, facility modernization, technology integration, and educational program development, with positive changes observed in high school drop-out and graduation rates. His prior experience includes a superintendent role at Mineral Point Unified School District and various principal and teaching positions.
Terry Hemann
Superintendent | Spencer Community School District | Spencer, IA
Topic:
Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS)
Terry Hemann is an education professional with 32 years of K-12 experience, including 20 years as a school superintendent. He holds a Master of Science in Education Administration from Drake University and a Superintendent Licensure from Cardinal Stritch University. Since 2011, he has served as Superintendent for the Spencer Community School District, where his responsibilities include collaborating with the school board, leading the administrative team, and engaging with the community. Under his leadership, the district has focused on financial stability, facility modernization, technology integration, and educational program development, with positive changes observed in high school drop-out and graduation rates. His prior experience includes a superintendent role at Mineral Point Unified School District and various principal and teaching positions.
Terry Hemann
Superintendent | Spencer Community School District | Spencer, IA
Topic:
Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS)
Terry Hemann is an education professional with 32 years of K-12 experience, including 20 years as a school superintendent. He holds a Master of Science in Education Administration from Drake University and a Superintendent Licensure from Cardinal Stritch University. Since 2011, he has served as Superintendent for the Spencer Community School District, where his responsibilities include collaborating with the school board, leading the administrative team, and engaging with the community. Under his leadership, the district has focused on financial stability, facility modernization, technology integration, and educational program development, with positive changes observed in high school drop-out and graduation rates. His prior experience includes a superintendent role at Mineral Point Unified School District and various principal and teaching positions.
Jackie Christensen
Students Services Coordinator | Spencer Community Schools | Spencer, IA
Topic:
Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS)
Jackie Christensen brings over a decade of experience in English Learner education, beginning her career in Minneapolis before moving to Spencer, Iowa, where she led the development of a comprehensive K–12 EL program. She holds a Master’s degree in Second Languages and Cultures and is currently completing her administrator licensure program. Jackie now serves as the Student Services Coordinator for Spencer Community Schools, where she supports special education, English Learners, and mental health services. Her work focuses on creating inclusive systems, strengthening cross-department collaboration, partnering with families, and advocating for equitable access for all students.
Jackie Christensen
Students Services Coordinator | Spencer Community Schools | Spencer, IA
Topic:
Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS)
Jackie Christensen brings over a decade of experience in English Learner education, beginning her career in Minneapolis before moving to Spencer, Iowa, where she led the development of a comprehensive K–12 EL program. She holds a Master’s degree in Second Languages and Cultures and is currently completing her administrator licensure program. Jackie now serves as the Student Services Coordinator for Spencer Community Schools, where she supports special education, English Learners, and mental health services. Her work focuses on creating inclusive systems, strengthening cross-department collaboration, partnering with families, and advocating for equitable access for all students.
Jackie Christensen
Students Services Coordinator | Spencer Community Schools | Spencer, IA
Topic:
Positive Approach to Student Success (PASS)
Jackie Christensen brings over a decade of experience in English Learner education, beginning her career in Minneapolis before moving to Spencer, Iowa, where she led the development of a comprehensive K–12 EL program. She holds a Master’s degree in Second Languages and Cultures and is currently completing her administrator licensure program. Jackie now serves as the Student Services Coordinator for Spencer Community Schools, where she supports special education, English Learners, and mental health services. Her work focuses on creating inclusive systems, strengthening cross-department collaboration, partnering with families, and advocating for equitable access for all students.
Matt Van Voorst
Superintendent | Rock Valley Community School District | Rock Valley, IA
Topic:
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year
Matt is a people-centered educator with 25 years of experience in education and leadership. His career began in the Corona-Norco Unified School District in California, where he spent 11 years as an elementary and middle school teacher, as well as a middle school assistant principal.
After relocating to northwest Iowa, Matt continued to serve students and educators in both teaching and administrative roles at the middle and high school levels. He is currently in his third year as Superintendent of the Rock Valley Community School District.
In addition to his work in public education, Matt has five years of leadership experience in the private sector, further broadening his perspective and skillset to serve others.
A native of northwest Iowa, Matt earned his undergraduate degree from Wayne State College. He went on to receive a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Chapman University and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree from Drake University.
Matt Van Voorst
Superintendent | Rock Valley Community School District | Rock Valley, IA
Topic:
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year
Matt is a people-centered educator with 25 years of experience in education and leadership. His career began in the Corona-Norco Unified School District in California, where he spent 11 years as an elementary and middle school teacher, as well as a middle school assistant principal.
After relocating to northwest Iowa, Matt continued to serve students and educators in both teaching and administrative roles at the middle and high school levels. He is currently in his third year as Superintendent of the Rock Valley Community School District.
In addition to his work in public education, Matt has five years of leadership experience in the private sector, further broadening his perspective and skillset to serve others.
A native of northwest Iowa, Matt earned his undergraduate degree from Wayne State College. He went on to receive a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Chapman University and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree from Drake University.
Matt Van Voorst
Superintendent | Rock Valley Community School District | Rock Valley, IA
Topic:
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year
Matt is a people-centered educator with 25 years of experience in education and leadership. His career began in the Corona-Norco Unified School District in California, where he spent 11 years as an elementary and middle school teacher, as well as a middle school assistant principal.
After relocating to northwest Iowa, Matt continued to serve students and educators in both teaching and administrative roles at the middle and high school levels. He is currently in his third year as Superintendent of the Rock Valley Community School District.
In addition to his work in public education, Matt has five years of leadership experience in the private sector, further broadening his perspective and skillset to serve others.
A native of northwest Iowa, Matt earned his undergraduate degree from Wayne State College. He went on to receive a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Chapman University and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree from Drake University.
Noah DeYager
Middle School Principal | Rock Valley, IA
Topic:
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year
Noah DeYager has 16 years of experience in education and a background in business, sales, and marketing. After earning a business degree from Dordt University, he spent his early career in power sports and working at The Foreign Candy Company. He later went back to school for education and began teaching 7-12 business and computers at South O'Brien in Paullina, IA, for nine years. In 2016, he earned a school leadership degree from Dordt University. Joining Rock Valley Schools in 2018 as a 6-12 business and computers teacher, he became middle school principal in 2020, where he continues to serve.
Noah DeYager
Middle School Principal | Rock Valley, IA
Topic:
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year
Noah DeYager has 16 years of experience in education and a background in business, sales, and marketing. After earning a business degree from Dordt University, he spent his early career in power sports and working at The Foreign Candy Company. He later went back to school for education and began teaching 7-12 business and computers at South O'Brien in Paullina, IA, for nine years. In 2016, he earned a school leadership degree from Dordt University. Joining Rock Valley Schools in 2018 as a 6-12 business and computers teacher, he became middle school principal in 2020, where he continues to serve.
Noah DeYager
Middle School Principal | Rock Valley, IA
Topic:
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year
Noah DeYager has 16 years of experience in education and a background in business, sales, and marketing. After earning a business degree from Dordt University, he spent his early career in power sports and working at The Foreign Candy Company. He later went back to school for education and began teaching 7-12 business and computers at South O'Brien in Paullina, IA, for nine years. In 2016, he earned a school leadership degree from Dordt University. Joining Rock Valley Schools in 2018 as a 6-12 business and computers teacher, he became middle school principal in 2020, where he continues to serve.
Nicole Roder
High School Principal | Rock Valley, IA
Topic:
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year
Mrs. Nicole Roder is the high school principal at Rock Valley Schools. She joined the team in 2009, after getting her undergraduate degree from UNI and her graduate degree from Viterbo University. Before moving to Rock Valley, she taught high school Spanish at West Central Valley Schools in Stuart, IA for 12 years. Nicole is happily married to her husband Kelly who farms, sons Eric (Keely) and grandson Scottie Salazar, who are both teachers at Rock Valley and NWC grads; Jackson Roder, senior at GCU in Phoenix studying business, Alic Salazar, NWC student and football player, and Preston Roder who lives in Oregon.
Nicole Roder
High School Principal | Rock Valley, IA
Topic:
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year
Mrs. Nicole Roder is the high school principal at Rock Valley Schools. She joined the team in 2009, after getting her undergraduate degree from UNI and her graduate degree from Viterbo University. Before moving to Rock Valley, she taught high school Spanish at West Central Valley Schools in Stuart, IA for 12 years. Nicole is happily married to her husband Kelly who farms, sons Eric (Keely) and grandson Scottie Salazar, who are both teachers at Rock Valley and NWC grads; Jackson Roder, senior at GCU in Phoenix studying business, Alic Salazar, NWC student and football player, and Preston Roder who lives in Oregon.
Nicole Roder
High School Principal | Rock Valley, IA
Topic:
Leadership Lessons Learned in a Trying Year
Mrs. Nicole Roder is the high school principal at Rock Valley Schools. She joined the team in 2009, after getting her undergraduate degree from UNI and her graduate degree from Viterbo University. Before moving to Rock Valley, she taught high school Spanish at West Central Valley Schools in Stuart, IA for 12 years. Nicole is happily married to her husband Kelly who farms, sons Eric (Keely) and grandson Scottie Salazar, who are both teachers at Rock Valley and NWC grads; Jackson Roder, senior at GCU in Phoenix studying business, Alic Salazar, NWC student and football player, and Preston Roder who lives in Oregon.
Matt McCarty
Head Football Coach | Northwestern College | Orange City, IA
Topic:
Creating a Culture of Excellence
Matt McCarty is in his 10th season as the Red Raiders' head coach entering the 2025 season, moving into the position in December of 2015. McCarty was the team's defensive coordinator for 11 years and also served as assistant head coach from 2012 to 2015.
He has led the Northwestern football program to two National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Football Championship Series (FCS) semifinals four times (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023) and has made three NAIA FCS National Championship game appearances (2020, 2022, 2023). McCarty led the Northwestern football program to their first NAIA national title in 2022 since the 1983 season.
"I want to instill in our players to always do their best," commented McCarty. "I want them to do what is right and to make a difference both on and off the field. I really enjoy coaching at Northwestern with our staff because we do our best to meet our young men where they are spiritually, academically and athletically and then help them grow and become their best."
In 2020, McCarty joined the NAIA executive committee as a member of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) sub-group, serving as the second vice president for the NAIA coaches in the association. Under McCarty's direction, the Raiders reached the national championship game in three of four seasons (2020, 2022-23). In 2023, he guided the Raiders to their first outright conference title since 1996.
Matt McCarty
Head Football Coach | Northwestern College | Orange City, IA
Topic:
Creating a Culture of Excellence
Matt McCarty is in his 10th season as the Red Raiders' head coach entering the 2025 season, moving into the position in December of 2015. McCarty was the team's defensive coordinator for 11 years and also served as assistant head coach from 2012 to 2015.
He has led the Northwestern football program to two National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Football Championship Series (FCS) semifinals four times (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023) and has made three NAIA FCS National Championship game appearances (2020, 2022, 2023). McCarty led the Northwestern football program to their first NAIA national title in 2022 since the 1983 season.
"I want to instill in our players to always do their best," commented McCarty. "I want them to do what is right and to make a difference both on and off the field. I really enjoy coaching at Northwestern with our staff because we do our best to meet our young men where they are spiritually, academically and athletically and then help them grow and become their best."
In 2020, McCarty joined the NAIA executive committee as a member of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) sub-group, serving as the second vice president for the NAIA coaches in the association. Under McCarty's direction, the Raiders reached the national championship game in three of four seasons (2020, 2022-23). In 2023, he guided the Raiders to their first outright conference title since 1996.
Matt McCarty
Head Football Coach | Northwestern College | Orange City, IA
Topic:
Creating a Culture of Excellence
Matt McCarty is in his 10th season as the Red Raiders' head coach entering the 2025 season, moving into the position in December of 2015. McCarty was the team's defensive coordinator for 11 years and also served as assistant head coach from 2012 to 2015.
He has led the Northwestern football program to two National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Football Championship Series (FCS) semifinals four times (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023) and has made three NAIA FCS National Championship game appearances (2020, 2022, 2023). McCarty led the Northwestern football program to their first NAIA national title in 2022 since the 1983 season.
"I want to instill in our players to always do their best," commented McCarty. "I want them to do what is right and to make a difference both on and off the field. I really enjoy coaching at Northwestern with our staff because we do our best to meet our young men where they are spiritually, academically and athletically and then help them grow and become their best."
In 2020, McCarty joined the NAIA executive committee as a member of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) sub-group, serving as the second vice president for the NAIA coaches in the association. Under McCarty's direction, the Raiders reached the national championship game in three of four seasons (2020, 2022-23). In 2023, he guided the Raiders to their first outright conference title since 1996.
Dr. Heather Hayes
Assistant Professor of Education | Northwestern College | Orange City, IA
Topic:
Reaching All Students: Implementing Universal Design for Learning in the Classroom
Dr. Heather Hayes is in her 4th year as Northwestern College serving as Assistant Professor of Special Education. She is an expert in special education, having served as a middle and high school special education teacher for seven years in Leawood, KS and Onawa, IA. working with students with extensive support needs.
She holds a B.A in Political Science from the University of Kansas, Master of Education in Special Education from the University of Central Missouri, and Ph.D from the University of Northern Colorado. Her current research focuses on Universal Design for Learning (UDL), inclusive education, opportunities to learn the general education content for students with extensive support needs, and literacy instruction for students with extensive support needs.
Dr. Heather Hayes
Assistant Professor of Education | Northwestern College | Orange City, IA
Topic:
Reaching All Students: Implementing Universal Design for Learning in the Classroom
Dr. Heather Hayes is in her 4th year as Northwestern College serving as Assistant Professor of Special Education. She is an expert in special education, having served as a middle and high school special education teacher for seven years in Leawood, KS and Onawa, IA. working with students with extensive support needs.
She holds a B.A in Political Science from the University of Kansas, Master of Education in Special Education from the University of Central Missouri, and Ph.D from the University of Northern Colorado. Her current research focuses on Universal Design for Learning (UDL), inclusive education, opportunities to learn the general education content for students with extensive support needs, and literacy instruction for students with extensive support needs.
Dr. Heather Hayes
Assistant Professor of Education | Northwestern College | Orange City, IA
Topic:
Reaching All Students: Implementing Universal Design for Learning in the Classroom
Dr. Heather Hayes is in her 4th year as Northwestern College serving as Assistant Professor of Special Education. She is an expert in special education, having served as a middle and high school special education teacher for seven years in Leawood, KS and Onawa, IA. working with students with extensive support needs.
She holds a B.A in Political Science from the University of Kansas, Master of Education in Special Education from the University of Central Missouri, and Ph.D from the University of Northern Colorado. Her current research focuses on Universal Design for Learning (UDL), inclusive education, opportunities to learn the general education content for students with extensive support needs, and literacy instruction for students with extensive support needs.
Ashley Stanislav
Social Studies Teacher | MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District | Orange City, IA
Topic:
Reaching All Students: Implementing Universal Design for Learning in the Classroom
Ashley Stanislav is in her fourth year of teaching high school social studies at MOC-Floyd Valley CSD. Ashley holds a bachelor's degree in history with endorsements in secondary education and American government from Northwestern College in Orange City, IA. She taught high school history for two years after graduating from NWC, before taking an extended break from teaching. During that break she worked at Northwestern College as an administrative assistant in both the admissions office and business department. In addition to teaching world history, contemporary history, and social issues, Ashley serves on the Leader in Me leadership team and the AI task force.
Ashley Stanislav
Social Studies Teacher | MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District | Orange City, IA
Topic:
Reaching All Students: Implementing Universal Design for Learning in the Classroom
Ashley Stanislav is in her fourth year of teaching high school social studies at MOC-Floyd Valley CSD. Ashley holds a bachelor's degree in history with endorsements in secondary education and American government from Northwestern College in Orange City, IA. She taught high school history for two years after graduating from NWC, before taking an extended break from teaching. During that break she worked at Northwestern College as an administrative assistant in both the admissions office and business department. In addition to teaching world history, contemporary history, and social issues, Ashley serves on the Leader in Me leadership team and the AI task force.
Ashley Stanislav
Social Studies Teacher | MOC-Floyd Valley Community School District | Orange City, IA
Topic:
Reaching All Students: Implementing Universal Design for Learning in the Classroom
Ashley Stanislav is in her fourth year of teaching high school social studies at MOC-Floyd Valley CSD. Ashley holds a bachelor's degree in history with endorsements in secondary education and American government from Northwestern College in Orange City, IA. She taught high school history for two years after graduating from NWC, before taking an extended break from teaching. During that break she worked at Northwestern College as an administrative assistant in both the admissions office and business department. In addition to teaching world history, contemporary history, and social issues, Ashley serves on the Leader in Me leadership team and the AI task force.
Jill Hulshoff
Elementary School Principal | Kinsey Elementary | Sioux Center, IA
Topic:
Shared Instructional Leadership: Lessons from Experience
With a passion for education and leadership, Hulshoff brings nearly three decades of experience to her role as principal at Kinsey Elementary in Sioux Center, Iowa. She began her teaching career in her hometown of Spencer, Iowa, before spending eight years teaching 4th grade at MOC-Floyd Valley. For the past 20 years, she has served the community of Sioux Center in various roles, including teaching 2nd, 5th, and 6th grades, leading as middle school principal, and now serving as principal at Kinsey Elementary.
Hulshoff earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education with endorsements in reading and coaching from Northwestern College in 1996. She later completed her master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Sioux Falls in 2007. In addition to her K–12 work, she has served as an adjunct professor at Dordt University and has coached multiple sports—including volleyball, basketball, track, and most recently, girls wrestling.
Her diverse background reflects a commitment to both academic and personal growth for students and staff alike.
Jill Hulshoff
Elementary School Principal | Kinsey Elementary | Sioux Center, IA
Topic:
Shared Instructional Leadership: Lessons from Experience
With a passion for education and leadership, Hulshoff brings nearly three decades of experience to her role as principal at Kinsey Elementary in Sioux Center, Iowa. She began her teaching career in her hometown of Spencer, Iowa, before spending eight years teaching 4th grade at MOC-Floyd Valley. For the past 20 years, she has served the community of Sioux Center in various roles, including teaching 2nd, 5th, and 6th grades, leading as middle school principal, and now serving as principal at Kinsey Elementary.
Hulshoff earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education with endorsements in reading and coaching from Northwestern College in 1996. She later completed her master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Sioux Falls in 2007. In addition to her K–12 work, she has served as an adjunct professor at Dordt University and has coached multiple sports—including volleyball, basketball, track, and most recently, girls wrestling.
Her diverse background reflects a commitment to both academic and personal growth for students and staff alike.
Jill Hulshoff
Elementary School Principal | Kinsey Elementary | Sioux Center, IA
Topic:
Shared Instructional Leadership: Lessons from Experience
With a passion for education and leadership, Hulshoff brings nearly three decades of experience to her role as principal at Kinsey Elementary in Sioux Center, Iowa. She began her teaching career in her hometown of Spencer, Iowa, before spending eight years teaching 4th grade at MOC-Floyd Valley. For the past 20 years, she has served the community of Sioux Center in various roles, including teaching 2nd, 5th, and 6th grades, leading as middle school principal, and now serving as principal at Kinsey Elementary.
Hulshoff earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education with endorsements in reading and coaching from Northwestern College in 1996. She later completed her master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Sioux Falls in 2007. In addition to her K–12 work, she has served as an adjunct professor at Dordt University and has coached multiple sports—including volleyball, basketball, track, and most recently, girls wrestling.
Her diverse background reflects a commitment to both academic and personal growth for students and staff alike.
Chelsey Kurtzleben
Instructional Coach | Kinsey Elementary | Sioux Center, IA
Topic:
Shared Instructional Leadership: Lessons from Experience
Chelsey joined the Sioux Center Community School District in 2012 as a long-term substitute in 8th-grade math and quickly found a home teaching 5th and 6th-grade science—eventually spending most of her time with 5th-grade students. Since 2020, she has served as an Elementary Instructional Coach, supporting teachers and enhancing classroom practices across the district.
She holds a B.A. in Elementary Education with a minor in Math from the University of Northern Iowa (2011), an M.S. in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership from Southwest Minnesota State University (2018), and a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Dordt University (2024). In addition to her K–12 experience, she has also taught science courses as an adjunct professor at Morningside University.
Chelsey Kurtzleben
Instructional Coach | Kinsey Elementary | Sioux Center, IA
Topic:
Shared Instructional Leadership: Lessons from Experience
Chelsey joined the Sioux Center Community School District in 2012 as a long-term substitute in 8th-grade math and quickly found a home teaching 5th and 6th-grade science—eventually spending most of her time with 5th-grade students. Since 2020, she has served as an Elementary Instructional Coach, supporting teachers and enhancing classroom practices across the district.
She holds a B.A. in Elementary Education with a minor in Math from the University of Northern Iowa (2011), an M.S. in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership from Southwest Minnesota State University (2018), and a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Dordt University (2024). In addition to her K–12 experience, she has also taught science courses as an adjunct professor at Morningside University.
Chelsey Kurtzleben
Instructional Coach | Kinsey Elementary | Sioux Center, IA
Topic:
Shared Instructional Leadership: Lessons from Experience
Chelsey joined the Sioux Center Community School District in 2012 as a long-term substitute in 8th-grade math and quickly found a home teaching 5th and 6th-grade science—eventually spending most of her time with 5th-grade students. Since 2020, she has served as an Elementary Instructional Coach, supporting teachers and enhancing classroom practices across the district.
She holds a B.A. in Elementary Education with a minor in Math from the University of Northern Iowa (2011), an M.S. in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership from Southwest Minnesota State University (2018), and a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Dordt University (2024). In addition to her K–12 experience, she has also taught science courses as an adjunct professor at Morningside University.