Dear Colleagues,
As we step into another exciting school year, the theme of "new" resonates deeply across our schools, communities, and leadership. Whether it's welcoming new students, navigating new challenges, or embracing new innovations in education, we are all embarking on a journey of renewal and growth.
As principals, we understand the responsibility and opportunity that come with the new. Every new day brings a chance to make a difference in the lives of our students, teachers, and communities. It's not just about the new school year but the mindset we cultivate as leaders—one that is open to new ideas, fresh perspectives, and the continuous learning that drives our profession forward.
This year, as part of the Alaska Association of Elementary School Principals, we have exciting initiatives on the horizon. We are introducing new professional development opportunities, advocating for updated policies that reflect the needs of our students, and fostering new partnerships that will support each of us in our unique leadership roles.
Let's also remember that with new beginnings come challenges. But it is in those moments that our leadership shines brightest. With the support of AAESP, we have the tools, the passion, and the resilience to guide our schools through change and emerge stronger than ever.
I encourage each of you to embrace the new with courage and optimism. Whether implementing new strategies, welcoming new staff, or leading new initiatives, your leadership will set the tone for your school's success.
As we transition to new leadership within AAESP, I look forward to the new opportunities that lie ahead for our organization. I would like to thank everyone for your support during my tenure as President. I look forward to working with each and every one of you in the years to come as we continue working at making education in Alaska a top priority.
Here's to a year of growth, innovation, and making a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve.
Josh Gill
AAESP President
Hi All!
My name is Lori Rucksdashel, and I am beyond exciting to be your next President of AAESP. Thank you, Josh Gill, for your guidance and leadership. I have learned so much from you in your time as President.
In my 26 years with the ASD, I have been fortunate to have many roles and various opportunities to work alongside such amazing peers. I have been a SPED Teacher, SPED Teacher Consultant, SPED Assistant Director, SPED Director, and am now starting my 6th year as an Elementary Principal. I am currently at Chinook Elementary school on the west side of Anchorage.
I am looking forward to the coming year and getting to work with all of you across the state, and hope to see many of you at the Alaska Principals' Conference later this month!
September Marks the Start of a New School Year, and Advocacy Efforts
As we step into September and the new school year is in full swing, I sincerely hope your semester is off to a fantastic start!
Your leadership sets the tone for your entire school, and your work is critical in shaping a bright future for Alaska’s students.
While it may seem early, now is the perfect time to build vital relationships with your legislators and legislative candidates. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to reach out and introduce yourself as an invaluable resource on education within their district.
This initial connection isn’t about diving into our legislative priorities yet—it’s about positioning yourself as a knowledgeable point of contact for any education-related questions they may have as the legislative session approaches. A simple invite to visit your school could be a game-changer, giving them a firsthand glimpse into the fantastic work happening in your building.
**Remember, many legislators may have yet to set foot in a school since their own graduation, so this can be a powerful way to highlight the importance of public education.
Here are a few steps to get started:
1. Gather Contact Information
You can collect email addresses for legislative offices, or you can call their offices directly. Contact information for Senators can be found here, and Representatives here.
2. Plan Your Visit Itinerary
Consider making their visit engaging and memorable with ideas like:
- Having them shadow you during daily activities
- Hosting a meeting with your school’s administrative team
- Inviting them to read school announcements or lead the Pledge of Allegiance
- Asking them to read a book to students
- Engaging students in a discussion on the role of a legislator or how a bill becomes law
- Attending an after-school activity like a band concert, science fair, or tutoring session
- Joining an all-school assembly
- Recording a back-to-school message or weekly announcement
I would appreciate it if you could schedule some one-on-one time to discuss challenges or share ideas. You can use ACSA’s Joint Position Statements as a guide to help steer the conversation.
Please note that your legislators might not be able to visit your school in-person, due to their busy schedules. As an alternative, you can offer them a virtual tour of the school via Zoom. During a virtual tour they can meet with you and your leadership team, as well as visit classrooms and talk with students. It is important that your legislator makes a connection with you and your school.
As the legislative session draws nearer, ACSA will organize constituent meetings to facilitate your ongoing discussions with elected policymakers. We want to ensure those meetings build on relationships you’ve already established and do not serve as your first point of contact.
If you need help identifying your legislators, you can use the legislator-by-district document to find the representatives for your school or contact us for assistance.
This upcoming legislative session will place a major emphasis on education, so let’s start our advocacy efforts now to ensure we’re prepared to champion the best interests of Alaska’s students.
Lastly, I’m excited to see you all at the 58th Annual Alaska Principals’ Conference, which will be held September 27-28 in Anchorage. If you haven’t registered yet, please do so today!
Remember, your principal associations, AAESP and AASSP, and ACSA, are here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything.
Together, we are making a difference!
Be well,
Dr. Lisa S. Parady
Contact Us
Email: jrinaldi@alaskaacsa.org
Website: www.alaskaprincipal.org
Location: 234 Gold Street, Juneau, AK, USA
Phone: 907.242.9989
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/akprincipals
Twitter: @alaskaprincipal