AP Major Speakers

First General Session 

Monday, June 11, 2012 - 8:00 - 9:15 a.m.

President's Remarks and Awards Presentation
Jim Schmid, 2011-12 IPA President and Principal, Metea Valley High School, Aurora

"How to Use Humor to Improve Learning and Leadership"

Dr. Peter Jonas, Professor, Author and Chairperson of the Doctoral Leadership Department at Cardinal Stritch University, Milwaukee, WI

A variety of theoretical and empirical studies show that individuals can use humor not only to increase leadership but also enhance leadership and the learning environment.  This presentation provides an analysis and synthesis of the research behind using humor in learning and leadership.  By grounding the work in empirical studies, the interactive presentation provides a theoretical model and current active processing to impart practical examples demonstrating concerning the truth about how to integrate humor into the classroom and administration of schools.  Through the use of effective research and brain-based concepts, the presentation will integrate theory and seven main concepts and several easy to follow, research-based guidelines.  Learn how easy it is to use stories and jokes to improve teaching, increase learning, and enhance leadership abilities. 

Second General Session
Tuesday, June 12, 2012 - 8:00 - 9:15 a.m.

"Preventing and Responding to Cyber Bullying"

Dr. Justin Patchin, Co-Director, Cyberbullying Research Center and Assoc. Prof. of Criminal Justice, Dept. of Political Science, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

This presentation will cover issues educators and parents need to know regarding how to prevent and respond to incidents of cyberbullying.  Specific strategies educators can utilize will be discussed.  In addition, the presentation will describe some of the legal issues associated with school intervention in cyberbullying behaviors and provide suggestions for a comprehensive district or school policy on cyberbullying.

Third General Session
Tuesday, June 12, 2012 - 11:55 - 1:30 p.m.

"From Doom to Zoom"

Jim Burgett, President, Burgett Group, Highland

It's been a rough ride for a lot of schools recently.  Financial concerns, teacher reductions, program shrinkage - you name it and many schools have, are, or will be experiencing it.  While we handle the "doom", kids are in a state of "zoom".  Zoom?  The excitement of learning through technology along with the ability to do more with less, to move forward in spite of circumstances, and to "dent the universe".  This session is not just a motivational fix, this session includes real ideas to increase expectations, boost morale, and move forward - even in times of economic challenges.