February 18th Edition
AWSA Update
Let’s Get a Deal Done that Keeps Promised Special Education Rates and Provides General School Aid to Hold Down Property Taxes
The State Capitol has been abuzz with ongoing conversations of an end of session deal that could see much of Wisconsin’s budget surplus spent. With time running out on this legislative session, it is vital that the governor and legislature reach a deal that addresses the burdens facing Wisconsin schools and taxpayers. Please contact the governor and legislators and urge them to work together to reach a compromise that includes addressing the special education shortfall AND increase general aid to help schools and hold down property taxes. Read more here.
Beginning July 1: AWSA to Affiliate with the National Principals Association
Beginning July 1, 2026, AWSA will transition from two separate national partners to a single unified PK–12 national association. We are excited about this opportunity to develop a stronger and more strategic partnership with one national association to advocate for and support our profession. This article provides background on this decision and next steps. Read more here.
From Vision to Reality: Leadership Moves That Build Positive Culture
Doesn’t it sometimes seem like certain administrators have this “positive culture” thing completely figured out, while after 22 years I’m still refining the craft? Do all the books, articles, TED Talks, webinars, and even Instagram Reels from the experts really hold the secret to creating a positive school culture? I think these instructional influencers are a lot like me; educators sharing what they’ve learned along the way in hopes of helping others. Read more here.
Intentionally Building Skills for Life at Random Lake Elementary
A few years ago, when I took the position of elementary principal, I noticed a pattern that many school leaders will recognize. Our students were academically capable, but many struggled with focus, self-regulation, and peer interactions. Teachers were spending more time redirecting behavior and less time teaching, and students who wanted to do well often lacked the skills to manage frustration or work through challenges. Read more here.
OK, Google. Organize My Life
It was a pleasure connecting with educators recently at the SLATE conference in Wisconsin Dells. My session, "OK, Google. Organize my life!", is popular because it focuses on managing the already full plates of educators rather than adding more. As a Curriculum Specialist at CESA 5, I first began supporting educators with their digital workflows in 2020 as we shifted to online instruction. Today, the secret to productivity lies in mastering both browser organization and AI integration. Read more here.
The CGB Way-Connections-Growth-Beliefs: Building a School Where Every Student Learns
A positive school culture remains one of the highest priorities for school leaders. It consistently ranks among the top areas of focus for principals across the country. A strong culture does not develop by chance. It requires intentional effort, consistency, and a clear vision. Without that commitment, culture simply becomes “the way things are,” shaped by circumstance rather than purpose. When culture is not deliberately led, it reflects the energy and direction of whoever happens to be present. Read more here.
AWSA 2026 Election
The AWSA Board of Directors election will be held electronically from April 15-April 30, 2026. This year, Directors will be elected from Regions 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11 and 12. Members of each of these regions will be emailed a notification on April 15th with a link to an online ballot listing the candidate(s) for that region. As part of its succession planning, the Board has recruited candidates in each region. See candidates here.
Are You Retiring?
If you are retiring this year, please let us know by sending an email to [email protected]. We’d like to include you in our recognition announcement and also share with you information about retired membership with AWSA.
