April 23rd Edition 

AWSA Update

Register Today for the 2025 Elementary Principals’ Convention

Plan to attend this fantastic learning opportunity October 1-3, 2025 at the La Crosse Center! Registration is now open.

Wisconsin's Liz Nelson Named National Middle School Principal of the Year

The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) recognized Elizabeth “Liz” Nelson of Pilgrim Park Middle School, Elmbrook School District, as the National Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year. Wisconsin leaders have been selected four times in the last five years as Principals of the Year: Deb Paradowski, Mukwonago (2020), Misa Sato, Milwaukee (2023) & Andy Farley, Elmbrook (2024). Read more here.

Why Won’t They Tell Me? Student Confidentiality

You are the principal or director in a school or district, and you are responsible for the learning and welfare of all the students in your school. You need to know important information about students to keep them safe and on track for graduation. However, there are times when you ask for information you believe your staff have, and yet they will not tell you. As frustrating as this can be, it helps to understand why this happens and what to do when you need more information than your staff is giving you. Read more here.

Cultivating a High Expectation Culture through Collective Efficacy

I am certain that every single teacher in our school has what it takes to ensure 100% of our students learn at high levels. We’ve been on that very journey at Muskego Lakes Middle School, and several factors have led to our success. Read more here.

The Crucial Role of Principals in Special Education: A Key to Retaining Special Education Teachers

Research and practice alike show that when principals actively engage in special education, the outcome is not only better support for students but also greater satisfaction and longevity for special education teachers. Read more here.

Beyond One-Size-Fits-All: How Poynette Middle School is Personalizing Learning

During the 23-24 school year, Poynette Middle School fully embraced IXL as a school-wide personalized learning tool. Teachers worked closely with students to set goals and track progress, focusing on recommended skills for ELA and math. This data-driven approach led to significant improvements in student performance. Read more here.

Duke's Storm: A Story of Courage

The book is written by Ted Nietzke and illustrated by Allison Disch.  Their story is a powerful reminder for each of us to be engaged and listen when people nudge us into thinking about our world and how we can all make a difference. Read more here.

April 9th Edition 

AWSA Update

2025 Elementary Principals’ Convention: Save the Date

Save the date for this fantastic learning opportunity October 1-3, 2025 at the La Crosse Center! Registration will open later this month.

Act 20 Survey Results on Assessment Overload and Testing Windows

Combining new assessments under Act 20 with legacy tools has led to testing overload. Some school districts have begun to “weed the garden” to eliminate the least valuable assessments. In addition, districts are adjusting their testing windows.  See how your colleagues are approaching this work by viewing the survey results here.

Teacher Contract Renewal and Nonrenewal

Teacher evaluation is an important part of your job as a principal. Hopefully you are prepared to make informed recommendations about staff contract renewal, as shortly we will be in the statutory timeframe when school boards must make those decisions. This Article will provide you with the essential information you need regarding the renewal and nonrenewal of teacher contracts. Read more here.

Evidence of Impact - The Best Gift We Can Give

In today’s educational landscape, the demands on schools continue to grow, stretching our focus and resources. Yet, at the heart of our calling as educators is a moral imperative: to serve all students and equip them to be lifelong learners and positive contributors to society. That imperative, however, often comes with a deep sense of inadequacy. Many educators feel they don’t - and perhaps can’t - measure up to the vast needs of their students. Read more here.

Hope Filled Students

When schools focus on nurturing hope-filled students by building a strong community of support around them, amazing things can happen. A positive and encouraging environment is essential for students to help develop a sense of belonging, resilience, and motivation to reach their full potential. By surrounding them with caring educators, engaged families, and supportive peers, we create a foundation where every child feels valued and empowered to grow. Read more here.

Data in Action: How 21st Century Prep Uses WIN Time to Drive Academic Growth

Facing persistent academic challenges, 21st Century Preparatory School implemented a data-driven intervention model known as WIN Time. Over the past four years, this targeted approach—combining small-group instruction, personalized skill practice, and student goal-setting—has led to measurable gains in both reading and math. In this article, we explore how WIN Time is helping more students move toward grade-level success. Read more here.

The Principal’s Calendar Now Available!

AWSA has created a monthly calendar to help you maximize your time. Click here for the full PDF version or here for a printer-friendly version. Want to customize it? Open the Google Doc, make a copy, and then edit to fit your needs!

The 2025-26 District Leaders Calendar is Now Available!

Use this calendar to maximize your time. Click here for a printer-friendly version. Want to customize it? Open the Google Doc, make a copy, and edit it to fit your needs!