In August, Â鶹ÊÓƵ (IUSD) leaders, educators, and staff came together for two cornerstone events to prepare for the 2025-26 school year: the annual Administrative Advance and districtwide Professional Learning Day. Both days focused on innovation, collaboration, and equipping staff with the knowledge and tools needed to support student success, including training on the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education.
Professional Learning Day
IUSD’s dedicated certificated instructional staff—teachers, specialists, and support providers—participated in a full day of active, hands-on learning designed to strengthen classroom practices and foster collaboration. Educators from across the District, spanning elementary and secondary education, special education, mental health and wellness, arts, music, nursing, and nutrition services, collaborated to explore strategies that enhance student learning and address the diverse needs of IUSD families.
This year’s Professional Learning Day emphasized the thoughtful integration of AI tools to create efficiencies, personalize learning, and expand opportunities for students while maintaining strong safeguards to protect data and privacy.
IUSD Board Members Lauren Brooks, Dr. Jeff Kim, Katie McEwen, Connie Stone, and Cyril Yu joined Superintendent Cassie Parham and District leaders in thanking staff for their passion and commitment to continuous improvement.
Administrative Advance
More than 200 site and district leaders gathered for IUSD’s annual Administrative Advance. The event began with an inspiring presentation on the , which provided strategies to elevate respectful dialogue and constructive engagement in school communities.
In the afternoon, leaders engaged in focused conversations about how IUSD can maximize the role of AI in education. These discussions centered on balancing innovation with responsibility and exploring how AI can strengthen teaching, learning, and operational practices districtwide.
Looking Ahead
Together, these professional development opportunities reaffirm IUSD’s commitment to preparing educators and leaders with the tools, strategies, and vision needed to support student well-being and achievement so they are college, career and ready for life beyond IUSD.
We look forward to welcoming our students and families back for the first day of the traditional school year on Tuesday, August 19.