One-third of the people in the room followed Saban out the door. The dilemma is especially troublesome in school systems such as District 155, which prefers to hire from within. Those holding Type 75 endorsements are prepared to serve as principals, assistant principals, department chairs and in other leadership roles. We had a definite need and wanted to create a situation where all our new administrators were enculturated in our district. Now 30 district teachers are earning advanced degrees through Northern Illinois University, practically without leaving Crystal Lake.
Students pay only for their books but earn salary hikes by furthering their education.
Three on-campus courses in regular sections are required after completion of the four strands. Those not promoted immediately still enjoy higher pay and advanced degrees, and the district benefits as those who complete the program gain a broader perspective and understanding of the district as an organization. We don't know of anyone else who's done this. The program aligns to the Illinois Standards for School Leaders, the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium standards and the Education Leadership Constituent Council standards. Illinois lawmakers recently approved the state's new standards, which must be implemented by July 1, 2003.