IALAS January Newsletter
January 2025
Dear IALAS Members,
Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, let us reflect on the power of leadership in education. Each of us carries the torch of our mission to advance Latino educational leaders and foster equity, opportunity, and excellence for every student. Let this year be a renewed opportunity to lead with purpose, inspire others, and champion change that impacts our communities in transformative ways. Together, through collaboration and action, we can make our shared vision a reality.
We are thrilled to invite you to our IALAS 8th Annual Educational Conclave 2025: UNIDOS: Leading Together for Equity and Empowerment, taking place on Saturday, January 18, 2025. This year, we are honored to feature Dr. Rachael Mahmood, the 2024 Illinois Teacher of the Year, as our keynote speaker. Dr. Mahmood’s dedication to empowering students and advancing equity in education exemplifies the values we hold dear. Her inspiring message will remind us of the vital role we play as educators in shaping brighter futures for all students.
We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible session presenters who are dedicating their time and expertise to making this event impactful. Your contributions are at the core of what makes IALAS a beacon of support and growth for our members.
This week, we’ll be showcasing highlights of our conference sessions on X and LinkedIn. Follow us to get a glimpse of the incredible topics and speakers lined up for the Conclave. We encourage you to engage with the posts, share them with your networks, and help us create excitement within the IALAS community.
Our hearts are with the educators, families, and communities in California impacted by the devastating fires. In times of crisis, the strength of the education community is vital. We commend the resilience of California’s school leaders and educators who continue to provide stability and support for students amidst challenging circumstances. As a collective, let us extend our support to those affected by sending our prayers, offering resources, and words of encouragement. Together, we can help communities rebuild and recover, ensuring that every child has access to the education and care they need to thrive.
The Illinois Association of Latino Administrators & Superintendents would also like to take a moment to extend our heartfelt support to Pedro Martinez, CEO of Chicago Public Schools, for his dedicated leadership in advancing the success of CPS students and families. Under his guidance, CPS has made remarkable strides in improving student outcomes and championing equity initiatives that ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. Pedro’s focus on addressing the unique needs of diverse learners and promoting an inclusive, supportive environment for all has helped create lasting change in the district. We deeply appreciate his commitment to uplifting students, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive both academically and personally. His vision for educational equity continues to inspire and foster positive transformation across the educational community.
As we move forward in 2025, let us remind ourselves of the profound impact we can have as leaders in education. Together, we can create pathways for success for ALL students, educators, and families. Join us in making this year one of growth, connection, and transformative change.
We look forward to seeing you at the Educational Conclave and engaging with you on social media. Thank you for being a vital part of the IALAS community.
Warm regards,
Maria Burgos
IALAS President
Mentor Spotlight! We want to shout out one of our members, Dr. Hector Garcia, who has volunteered to be a mentor this school year. If you are interested in receiving mentoring from him, please complete the Mentee Form or reach out to me at Nguerrero@ialas.com.
Dr Héctor García is a seasoned educator and dedicated leader with over ten years of experience as a Superintendent, specializing in guiding school districts toward excellence. Most recently, he has served as the Superintendent of District 181 in Hinsdale, Illinois, where he has led the K-8 school district to achieve a remarkable record of local, state, and national recognition, including three consecutive Blue Ribbon Awards since he arrived in 2018.
With a career spanning more than 30 years in public service, Dr. García has held various roles including teacher, High School Principal, and district-level administrator, working in diverse educational settings from the nationally recognized Adlai Stevenson District 125 in Lincolnshire to Morton East District 201 in Cicero, where over 90% of students participate in the free or reduced lunch program. His bilingual and bicultural proficiency has enabled him to build strong, effective community partnerships.
Dr. García has taught graduate-level courses on leadership, organizational behavior, and curriculum at three universities in the Chicago area. His unwavering commitment to cultivating a culture of high expectations and collaboration has been instrumental in his success in transforming schools across different environments.
As an engaging presenter, Dr. García has shared his insights at numerous state and national conferences and has collaborated with educators in over fifteen states as a consultant for Solution Tree. He has also taken on leadership roles as the National Academic Assembly Council Chair and Trustee for the College Board.
Dr. García earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Loyola University Chicago, a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Northern Illinois University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of Illinois at Chicago. His exemplary educational journey reflects a deep commitment to the success of all students.
DO YOU WANT FREE MONEY! Yes, that is not a typo.
If you are pursuing a graduate degree or certification, then you qualify for the SY25 IALAS scholarship. IALAS is offering $1,000 scholarships to three IALAS members in Latino/a serving districts. At this time, WE ONLY HAVE ONE application, so your chances of winning the scholarship are high! The deadline to submit applications will be 1/31/25.
If you are interested in applying, please complete the Google Form HERE. You can email Nicholas Guerrero at Nguerrero@ialas.org with any questions.
Partnerships by Treasurer Kris Rivera
By supporting educators in their critical work, Imagine Learning and Savvas directly align with the vision of IALAS to enhance educational opportunities for Latino students. We are proud to partner with these leading organizations in our shared commitment to student success. We are pleased to share information below about each company and how they effectively support the educational advancement of Latino students:
Savvas
At Savvas, we believe learning should inspire. By combining new ideas, new ways of thinking, and new ways of interacting, we design engaging, next-generation K-12 learning solutions that give all students the best opportunity to succeed. Our award-winning, high-quality instructional materials span every grade level and discipline, from evidence-based, standards-aligned core curricula and supplemental and intervention programs to state-of-the art assessment tools and the industry’s most innovative portfolio of college- and career-readiness solutions — all designed to meet the needs of every learner. Savvas products are used by millions of students and educators in more than 90 percent of the 13,000+ public school districts across all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, as well as globally in more than 125 countries. To learn more, visit www.Savvas.com.
Imagine Learning
Imagine Learning is dedicated to celebrating and harnessing the unique strengths and experiences that every student brings to the classroom. We believe that every learner has the potential to succeed when given the right support. By partnering with districts, we offer tailored learning opportunities that address the needs of students across all levels—Tier 1, 2, and 3. Our expertise lies in equipping students with the language and learning tools they need to access and excel in grade-level content, and beyond.
If your team is committed to making a meaningful impact on student outcomes in reading, writing, math, or in enhancing graduation rates and expanding college and career options, we are here to support that mission. We are eager to collaborate with you to ensure that every student has the resources they need to achieve their goals and realize their full potential. Together, we can create a brighter future for all learners - Imagine Learning Resources.
Membership Announcement and Career Opportunities by Members at Large Darlene Vargas
Now is the perfect time to act! Renew your membership or take advantage of our group discount for teams of three or more administrators. Gain access to valuable benefits like professional development, networking events, and mentorship programs. Don’t let these amazing opportunities pass you by—seize them today!
If you are interested in an individual membership click here!
If you are interested in an organizational membership click here!
For information on group discounts contact Kris Rivera at: Krivera@ialas.org
We look forward to your continued involvement with IALAS!
Advocacy by Historian Rocío del Castillo
What's ahead for the 5.3 million English learners in our schools?
Education Week
Montserrat Garibay arrived in the United States three decades ago with her mother and sister as an undocumented immigrant, and learned English at a public middle school in Austin, Texas. Read More
NBC News
Former President Jimmy Carter will be laid to rest today. In his single term as president, Carter recognized the emerging Latino electorate and brought in a record number of Latinos to work for his administration. He also spearheaded policies that affected Latinos, especially on education, supporting bilingual instruction and expanding civil rights. Read more about his "Latino legacy".
What 2025 could bring for English learners
Education Week
2024 is ending with lots of questions for the nation's growing English-learner population. It's been one year since the U.S. Department of Education's office of English language acquisition took back oversight of Title III — the primary federal funding stream for supplemental services for English learners. Read More
Question Power: How They Can Change and Influence Instructional Practices by William Truesdale and Vinni M. Hall explores how effective questioning can transform teaching and learning. It encourages educators to adopt strategies that promote critical thinking, curiosity, and lifelong learning while addressing challenges such as the overemphasis on standardized testing. The book uses the metaphor of a “quoin” or cornerstone to highlight the foundational role of inquiry in education and offers practical techniques for fostering student engagement and reflective learning.
With its focus on metacognitive teaching and the development of skills beyond formal education, the book provides tools like open-ended questions, visual aids, and expert quotes to enhance instructional practices. It advocates for using questions to create dynamic discussions, enabling students to take ownership of their learning.
Overall, Question Power, is a must-read for educators seeking to elevate their instructional efficacy and for learners aiming to take charge of their educational journey. It is a well-rounded and engaging exploration of how questioning can renew and regenerate the learning process, making it an invaluable addition to the field of education.
Winter Educational Conclave 2025
📅 Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Location: Northern Illinois University - Naperville Campus. 1120 E Diehl Rd, Naperville, IL 60563
This year’s theme, "Unidos: Leading Together for Equity and Empowerment," highlights our shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and transformative action in education.
Networking Event – Winter Jam
Following the Conclave, we’re hosting a fun event where you can connect with fellow educators and leaders. Share ideas, build relationships, and celebrate the day’s achievements together.
📅 Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
📍 Location: Granite City Food & Brewery
Address: 1828 Abriter Ct, Naperville, IL 60563
Join us for an evening of networking, great conversations, and meaningful connections!
Congratulations to the Winners of the Leaders of Distinction Award!
A special shoutout to our member, Anna Marie Candelario! 🎉
Anna Marie currently serves as the Director of Planning and Development in Oswego, the 7th largest school district in Illinois. With a focus on fostering inclusive learning environments, she has developed the Teacher and Leadership Grow-Your-Own program, emphasizing the recruitment and retention of diverse talent.
Anna Marie’s unwavering commitment to equity is evident throughout her career. She has demonstrated exceptional vision, implemented innovative strategies, and achieved remarkable results, paving the way for progress within her district and community.
Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership & Policy, Anna Marie continues to inspire us all.
¡Felicitaciones from your IALAS familia!
