Wyoming State Superintendent’s Policy Summit
October 1-2, 2019 – UW Gateway Center, Laramie

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow will host the S5S Policy Summit on October 1-2, 2019. This event will be at the UW Gateway Center in Laramie,  with a pre-conference on September 30. Presentations will cover topics under the following three strands: Education Law, State Accreditation, and School Improvement & Support. This year’s theme is “Pursuing Excellence Together”. Both PTSB and UW Credit will be offered.

Click here to register

Agenda

Keynotes:

Pre-Conference, September 30, 2019

“It doesn’t have to be this way. Creating a school climate less susceptible to harassment, bullying and violence is possible. We see it happening in socioeconomically and demographically diverse schools across North America every day.

For us it started when Rachel Joy Scott was the first person killed in the Columbine High School shooting on April 20, 1999. But that was only the beginning of the story. After her death, many students that Rachel reached out to shared stories with the Scotts about the profound impact her simple acts of kindness had on their lives; even preventing one young man for taking his own life. They soon realized the transformational effect of Rachel’s story and started the non-profit organization that is Rachel’s Challenge today.

In the nineteen years since we lost twelve innocent lives, including Rachel, her legacy has touched 25 million people and is the foundation for creating programs that promote a positive climate in K-12 schools. Her vision to start a chain reaction of kindness and compassion is the basis for our mission: Making schools safer, more connected places where bullying and violence are replaced with kindness and respect; and where learning and teaching are awakened to their fullest. And it works!”

October 1, 2019

A native of Cheyenne, Dr. Olenda E. Johnson is Professor of Strategic Leadership and Leader Development at the U. S. Naval War College – a graduate-level institution for highly select military officers and civilians. As a lead contributor in the College’s Leadership & Ethics, Olenda advises Navy senior leaders, develops strategy, and facilitates team efforts. In her primary role, she leads her team in developing and teaching a leadership course for 2-Star admirals and senior government executives. Olenda also works with other military units such as U.S. Army Special Forces Command to support their leader development programs.

A passionate teacher and educator, Olenda thrives on helping others learn and grow. As an invited speaker and facilitator, she shares her experiences and knowledge to instill in others the courage and confidence to lead in their unique circumstance. Olenda is a recipient of numerous honors and awards to include receiving the prestigious Army Commander’s Medal for Public Service and being honored by the Muhammad Ali Center as one of its Daughters of Greatness.

Olenda earned her Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior from the University of Pittsburgh, and both a B. S. and MBA from Florida A&M University. Prior to joining the War College, she was a tenured professor at North Carolina A&T State University. She also held previous visiting faculty appointments at the U.S. Army War College and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Most recently, she was appointed Adjunct Professor, Victoria Business School, Wellington, New Zealand. Mostly, Olenda finds the greatest joy in serving others – whether professionally, within her faith community, or among family and friends.

For questions, contact Danielle Saulsberry at 307-777-8979 or  danielle.saulsberry@wyo.gov.