Episodes

After 18 years at the helm of ROE #17 and over 30 years in Illinois education, Regional Superintendent Mark E. Jontry is preparing to retire. In this special episode, we flip the script and put Mark in the guest chair. He reflects on his journey from a Tri-Valley teacher to a statewide leader in education policy. We discuss the legacy of the programs he helped build, including RAS and the Central Illinois Bridge Academy, and hear his vision for the future of the office as he prepares to hand ove...

With renewal season officially open, Phaedra breaks down the "must-check" items in your ELIS account to avoid last-minute surprises on June 30. We also discuss the various "short-term" licensure pathways now available for those looking to enter the classroom from other fields. Whether you are a veteran teacher in your renewal year or someone considering a career change into education, Phaedra's expert advice and "golden rule" for licensure will help you navigate the system with confidence.

Have you ever wondered why school starts when it does, or why exactly five "emergency days" are built into every schedule? In this episode of the ROE #17 POD, we turn the mic on one of our own: Victoria Padilla. Victoria walks us through the complex legal requirements and the "math" behind the Illinois school calendar. We discuss the 176-day attendance mandate, how the ROE ensures districts meet state standards, and the difference between instructional and non-instructional time. Victoria also s...

In this episode of the ROE #17 POD, we dive into the vital world of professional learning and leadership development for school administrators. We are joined by Dr. Stacie France, the ROE # 17 Director of Professional Learning. Stacie is a specialist in administrator coaching, and we discuss how the role of the principal has evolved and what skills are non-negotiable for today’s educational leaders. We explore the "adult learning" challenge—how busy administrators can find time for their own gro...

What is it really like to attend an alternative school? In this episode of the ROE #17 POD, we sit down with Devon Whitsey, a former student of the Regional Alternative School (RAS), to hear his firsthand account of life outside the traditional high school setting. Devon opens up about the highs and lows of his experience, explaining how the unique environment at RAS fundamentally changed the trajectory of his high school education. We discuss what Devon is up to now and what he wants the commun...

In this episode of the ROE #17 POD, Regional Superintendent Mark Jontry sits down with Pat Durley, a former Regional Superintendent and current School and District Support Specialist. Pat brings a wealth of experience as a mentor and administrator to a conversation on one of the most critical behind-the-scenes aspects of education: Health-Life Safety (HLS). We demystify what HLS actually means for Illinois schools, from the annual inspections that ensure student well-being to the comprehensive 1...

In this episode of the ROE #17 POD, we welcome Melissa Breeden, Regional Council Manager for Birth to Five Illinois: Region 17. We delve into the organization's critical work of redesigning the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) system. Melissa explains the mission to center the family experience and how the local Region 17 Council translates statewide goals into actionable plans. Listen in to learn about their crucial collaboration with local childcare facilities and K-12 schools, the se...

On this episode of the ROE #17 POD, we welcome Officer Jeremy Flood, a School Resource Officer for McLean County Unit 5, who has served the students of Normal Community High School for the past decade. With over 20 years of experience as a Normal Police Officer, Officer Flood shares how he applies his practical and tactical expertise to ensure school safety. Listen in as he discusses the crucial importance of relationships in his role and explains how his powerful philosophy, "connecting is prot...

In this episode of the ROE #17 POD, we welcome Kara Quick, Principal of the RAS (Regional Alternative School) Bloomington Campus. Kara shares her inspiring pathway to education, detailing her lifelong drive to help others, which ultimately led her to a leadership role. She explains how the intimate class sizes and unique campus environment are specifically designed to foster deep, meaningful relationships between students and staff. Kara emphasizes that these strong connections are the non-negot...

In this episode of the ROE #17 POD, we sit down with Ian Earley, the new Principal at RAS (Regional Alternative School) Livingston County. Ian offers a unique perspective, having previously taught at the school before stepping into the leadership role this year. We discuss how his years in the classroom directly inform his leadership style, as he stresses the profound importance of building relationships, consistently showing up for students, and being that one caring adult who can make a differ...

In our 75th episode, we sit down with Regional Superintendent Mark E. Jontry and Assistant Regional Superintendent Molly Allen for a special conversation all about ROE #17. They reintroduce the Regional Office of Education and its new brand, and explain our core mission, who we serve, and the wide range of services we provide. Mark and Molly also discuss the current educational landscape, our dedication to student achievement, and how ROE #17 serves as a vital resource for our local schools and ...

In this episode, we speak with Mr. Harms, a dedicated fourth-grade teacher, and Ms. Nunamaker, a passionate paraprofessional from Ridgeview Elementary. Recently honored for their exceptional commitment to inclusive education, as highlighted in a WGLT news article, they share their insights and experiences in creating a welcoming and supportive classroom environment for all students. Hear about their collaborative approach, the challenges they've overcome, and the profound impact of inclusion on ...

In this engaging episode, we sit down with Tyler Swearingen, the incredibly involved principal of Tri-Valley Elementary! More than just an administrator, Tyler is a visible and active presence in every aspect of the school day. From directing traffic as a crossing guard to assisting in classrooms and supervising recess, Tyler's hands-on leadership style and genuine care for his 350 students shine through. He shares his education journey and emphasizes the profound importance of building strong r...

In this episode, we chat with Carmen Daubs, a 2nd-grade teacher at Northwest Elementary School in Lincoln ESD # 27. She is a dedicated educator passionate about creating enriching learning experiences for her students!

In this episode of ROE 17 POD, we sit down with Mike Jones, a passionate middle school science teacher with nearly 30 years of classroom experience, and the past 10 years at Thomas Metcalf Laboratory School at Illinois State University. Mike was recognized as Illinois’ 2017 STEM Teacher of the Year by the Illinois Science Teachers Association and is known for his creative, inquiry-based approach to science education. Join us as Mike shares how he leverages Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS...

In this episode, we explore how Lincoln Elementary School District #27 is making the most of the USDA’s Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program. Join us as we sit down with District Superintendent Kent Froebe, Director of Finance Colleen Jodlowski, and Food Service Director Connie Crawley to discuss their commitment to serving fresh, from scratch meals—and what makes their program a success.

In this week's episode, we talk with Matthew Phillips, a Junior and Senior High School Social Studies Teacher for Woodland CUSD 5. Mr. Phillips completed the National WWII Museum Institute Ambassador Program during the summer of 2024. We discuss teaching hard history, women's impact on WWII, and how the right resources and lessons can keep students engaged. Resources: https://www.ww2classroom.org/ https://www.nationalww2museum.org/students-teachers/educator-resources

On this week's episode, we talk to Melissa Foster, a Special Education Teacher at Odell Grade School. We talk about Melissa's unique path to educator licensure, and how she incorporates real-life learning experiences for her students in 4th through 8th grade.

In this episode, we talk to Ami Flammini, ROE # 17 Instructional Coach for MTSS & PBIS. We talk about what Mult-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) and Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) are, how schools use them, best practices, and we bust some common myths!

In this episode, we talk to Matt Sherrill, the Regional Educational Technology Coordinator for the East Central Region with the Learning Technology Center of Illinois. We talk to Matt about his role with LTC, AI in the classroom, and more! https://www.ltcillinois.org/

In this week's episode, we talk to Gary Tipsord about school finance basics. Mr. Tipsord is the current Executive Director of the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools (IARSS) and a retired superintendent.

In this episode, Guest Host Kayla Arnolts talks to Julie Burke and Michelle Maris about how ROE 17 and our local districts serve students who are experiencing homelessness. They discuss local resources, common misconceptions, and how community partnerships help fill existing gaps.

In this episode, we talk to Emily McCusker, the Director of Youth & Family Education for the McLean County Museum of History. We learn about their recent Día de los Muertos event, and their new Spanish language audio Tour of the "Making a Home" Exhibit. https://mchistory.org/

Established in 2004 by World War II veterans Dal Estes and Neil Bach as a living, hands-on museum to recognize the sacrifices and service of U. S. military veterans from Livingston County and Central Illinois. The goal is to educate schools, civic groups, and the general public about the history of local veterans from World War I to the present conflicts. The museum is staffed by both veteran and non-veteran volunteers. Learn more at www.livingstoncountywarmuseum.com