Annual Leadership Conference

7 a.m. – 4 p.m. 

Info Booth Open
Exhibit Hall

8:30 – 10 a.m.

General Session With Dominique Smith, MSW on “Building Equity: Practices to Empower All Learners”
Main Stage

Imagine a school district with a diverse student body where every student feels safe and valued, and all students—regardless of race, culture, home language, sexual orientation, gender identity, academic history or individual challenges—have the opportunity to succeed with challenging classes, projects and activities. In this district, teachers notice and meet students' individual instructional needs and foster a harmonious and supportive environment—and students feel empowered to learn, grow and to pursue their dreams.  In this session, we focus on the School Equity Taxonomy, a model to clarify the structural and interpersonal components of an equitable and excellent schooling experience.

Dominique Smith, Ed.D. is a social worker, school administrator, mentor and member of ASCD's Framework for Intentional and Targeted Teaching® Cadre. He is passionate about creating school cultures that honor students and build their confidence and competence.

Smith's major area of research and instruction focuses on restorative practices, classroom management, growth mindset and the culture of achievement. In addition to his school leadership responsibilities, Smith provides professional learning to K–12 teachers in groups large and small, on many topics that address classroom and school climate and organization.

2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

General Session With Michael F. Rice, Ph.D. on "A Conversation With the State Superintendent"
Main Stage 

The landscape has changed significantly since Michael F. Rice, Ph.D. took the helm at the Michigan Department of Education in August 2019.  Join us for meaningful discussion with Michigan’s State Superintendent about leadership, learning and what comes next for Michigan students.

Dr. Rice was appointed Michigan’s 45^th State Superintendent of Public Instruction by the State Board of Education in May 2019. He officially began his work on Aug. 1, 2019.

Dr. Rice came to MDE after serving 17 years as a local district superintendent—12 years as superintendent in Kalamazoo and five as superintendent in Clifton, N.J. His most rewarding work remains his mentoring and teaching of, and informal discussions with, schoolchildren, which he continues to do.

7 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Information Booth
Exhibit Hall

8:30 – 10 a.m.

Legislative Update With Jennifer Smith
Main Stage

Get the latest scoop about legislative activities, proposed bills and what’s happening in Lansing and Washington, D.C. from the MASB Government Relations staff. 

2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

General Session With Anthony Muhammad, Ph.D. on “All Means All!: Working Together to Create a Healthy School District Culture”
Main Stage

When it comes to school culture and successful school improvement, good strategies will not implement themselves.  The collective belief systems, values and behaviors of the school community will have a major impact on the success or failure of your improvement journey.  Effective leadership, from the school board level to the classroom, is the catalyst to developing high-performing districts. In this session, we will explore strategies that inspire, enlighten and push people to do great things for students, as well as the strategies and behaviors that destroy momentum and productivity.