Inaugural International Critical Issues Leadership Conference
The Inaugural International Critical Issues Leadership Conference focused on the need for transforming 21st Century Schools into learning organizations that are responsive to the needs of diverse learners. It was the Inaugural International Critical Issues Leadership Conference because it was the first time international participants were invited. Ninety-two participants attended for the conference. Research and strategies for creating 21st Century Schools were shared by department faculty. Opportunities were provided for participants to engage in courageous conversations on the following topics: building systemic leadership capacity, creating collaborative school cultures, expanding university - district leadership preparation partnerships, engaging families and community stakeholders in the educational process, and creating mental health partnerships.
Day 1 focused on Building Systemic Capacity for Transforming 21st Century Schools and the roles of the school Leadership. Also discussed on the first day was Organizational Structures and Practices. The lunch speaker focused on “Expanding Collaboration: Creating P-16 Partnerships.”
The morning of the Day 2 focused on Family and Community Engagement. The lunch speaker spoke about a Vision for an Institute on Building a Bilingual, Bicultural, and Biliterate University.
In the afternoon of Day 2, four school district practitioners shared initiatives being implemented at their schools to address needs of diverse learners. Listed below are districts, superintendents, and initiatives presented.
- Point Isabel ISD, Dr. Lisa Garcia - Transforming the Educational Experience for Students
- Los Fresnos CISD, Mr. Gonzalo Salazar - Issues in Leadership and Instruction: A Collaborative Approach to Curriculum Alignment
- Harlingen ISD, Dr. Art J. Cavazos - Early Literacy: Laying the Foundation for Success
- Brownsville ISD, Dr. Esperanza Zendejas - Leadership Transformation: Developing a Culture That Inspires Bold Thinking and Action
Day 3 comprised of site visits which provided participants an opportunity to observe and dialogue with practitioners who were experiencing success with diverse learners. Provided below are districts, superintendents, and initiatives presented.
- Pharr- San Juan - Alamo, Dr. Daniel P. King - Guided Pathways to Success
- Valley View ISD, Mr. Rolando Ramirez - Valley View: Before, Present and Future
- Valley View ISD, Mr. Rolando Ramirez - Valley View: Before, Present and Future
- Mission CISD, Dr. Ricardo Lopez - Visionary Voices: Leading the Mission Way
Press Release: UTRGV College of Education & P-16 Integration, Continuing Education, host Critical Issues Leadership Conference, By Jennifer L. Berghom.