ALL ARE WELCOME! NASA IS NOT a union! NASA is Nevada's PreK-12 Professional Development Organization for ALL Educators!

The Center for Educational Excellence Institute (CEEI) #6 
Held Virtually
October 2021 - January 2022
(Dates and Times below)

Earn 8 license renewal credits (that's 120 hours), AND ALSO 40 CUs in Clark, salary advancement in Clark, Washoe, and most NV Counties!
The CEEI may count for credit in other out of state too - check with your district/state department!
(FURTHER DETAILS BELOW)

CEEI #6 is a high level leadership program for ANY educator. NASA brought the CEEI to Nevada (and now is expanding to other states) as a service to educators to build stronger leaders. CEEI #6 is designed for ANY educator in ANY position, especially those aspiring to, or even just thinking about, new leadership roles and responsibilities. The CEEI is modeled after highly effective superintendent / leadership academies throughout the United States. The CEEI teaches the essentials of leadership necessary for optimal success in schools, districts and organizations alike! Each time NASA offers professional development under the CEEI umbrella, we strive to provide current, relevant and rigorous leadership learning. Since content varies, CEEI alumni can participate in CEEI #6 and receive credit/salary advancement too.

Anyone from a first year teacher to a veteran superintendent would benefit from CEEI #6! Differentiation will be provided. After full group presentations, participants will be grouped by like positions (teachers/administrators) led by seasoned "Session Leaders." This way, discussion is applicable to professional roles and participants can evolve in their current positions and beyond.

FEATURING:

  • Dr. Pete Gorman, Former Superintendent of Charlotte Mecklenburg School District
  • Colin Saele, Founder and CEO of thinkLaw
  • Dr. Nicola Alexander, Professor at the University of Minnesota
  • Dr. Ken Bird, Former Superintendent of Westside Community Schools & current CEO of Avenue Scholars
  • Senator Burke Harr
  • Jan Jones-Blackhurst, Former Mayor of Las Vegas & current Chairwoman of The Public Education Foundation in Clark County, NV
  • Debbie Brocket, Former CCSD Region Superintendent, current Superintendent of McMinnville School District in Oregon
  • Dr. Jesus Jara, CCSD Superintendent
  • Dr. Kristin McNeill, WCSD Superintendent
  • Dr. Gloria Rodriguez, Professor, UC Davis
  • Dr. Anthony Rolle, Dean, College of Education University of South Florida
  • Dr. Summer Stephens, Churchill County Superintendent
  • Dr. Jim Sutfin, Superintendent Millard Public Schools in Nebraska
  • AND MANY MORE... CHECK OUT FULL LINEUP BELOW!
REGISTER TODAY FOR A LOW REGISTRATION RATE GOOD UNTIL OCTOBER 10:

$340 for NASA Members and/or CEEI Alum
That is only $42.50 per credit & $8.50 per CU!

$400 for Non-NASA Members
That is still only $50.00 per credit & $10.00 per CU!


Any educator can become a NASA Member today AND pay the lower registration rate by visiting:

***NOTE - With your supervisor's permission, it is perfectly acceptable to utilize school, district or department funds for your enrollment!***
PRIMARY NATIONAL LEADERS TEACHING CEEI #6:
Dr. Peter Gorman
CEO Peter Gorman Leadership Associates
&
Former Superintendent:
Tustin Unified School District, CA
Charlotte Mecklenburg School District, NC
Colin Seale
Founder and CEO of thinkLaw 
ADDITIONAL NATIONAL LEADERS TEACHING CEEI #6:
Dr. Nicola Alexander
Interim Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education, Diversity, and International Initiatives, College of Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota
Dr. Ken Bird
President/CEO of Avenue Scholars Foundation
&
Former Superintendent of Westside Community Schools in Omaha, NE
Jan Jones Blackhurst
Former Mayor of Las Vegas
&
Chairwoman of the Public Education Foundation Board of Directors
&
Executive Director, UNLV Black Fire Leadership Initiative
&
Caesars Entertainment Board of Directors Chief Executive in Residence
&
UNLV International Gaming Institute 
Debbie Brockett
Superintendent of McMinnville School District in Oregon
Former Region Superintendent, Clark County School District
Burke Harr, Esq.
Houghton, Bradford Whitted PC, LLO
&
Former Nebraska State Senator
Dr. Jesus Jara
Superintendent, Clark County School District
Dr. Kristin McNeill
Superintendent, Washoe County School District
Dr. Gloria Rodriguez
Professor, UC Davis College of Education
Dr. Anthony Rolle
Dean, College of Education University of South Florida
&
Executive Committee Member, Council of Academic Deans from Research Education Institutions
&
Fellow, National Education Policy Center
&
Past-President, National Education Finance Academy
Dr. Summer Stephens
Superintendent, Churchill County School District
&
Vice-President of the Nevada Association of School Superintendents (NASS)
Dr. Jim Sutfin
Superintendent, Millard Public Schools in
Omaha, NE
NEVADA STATE, DISTRICT AND SCHOOL LEADERS TEACHING CEEI #6:
AJ Adams
President, Nevada Association of School Administrators (NASA)
&
Principal, Sunrise Mountain High School
Dr. Marjorie Conner
President & CEO, MMC Consulting
Marie DuFresne
Education Programs Professional-SEAD & MTSS
Office for a Safe and Respectful Learning Environment
Nevada Department of Education-Northern Office
Dr. Silvana Gorton
Education Programs Professional-Title IIA
Office of Educator Development & Support
Nevada Department of Education-Southern Office
Kevin McPartlin
Principal, Arbor View High School in the Clark County School District
Dr. Jonathan Moore
Deputy Superintendent for Student Achievement
Nevada Department of Education
Alberto Quintero
Nevada Department of Education
Director for Parent and Family Engagement
Dr. Zachary Robbins
Principal, Cheyenne High School
&
President Elect of the Secondary School Principals Association of Nevada (SSPAN)
&
Author of: "Restorative Justice Tribunal and ways to Derail Jim Crow Discipline in Schools"

CEEI Alum
&
National Superintendent Academy Alum
SESSION LEADERS & NASA STAFF SUPPORTING CEEI #6:
Dr. Marbella Alfonzo
NASA Secretary
&
Principal, Garside Junior High School in CCSD
Jennifer Harr
Principal, Swanson Elementary School
Westside Community Schools, Omaha NE
Nancy Herrod
President 
Private, Charter and Parochial School Association
(PCPSA)
&
Administrator, Odyssey Charter School in Clark County
Lou Markouzis
NASA President-Elect
&
Principal Carroll Johnston Middle School in CCSD
&
National Superintendent Academy Alum
Bob Mars
Former High School Principal & Associate Superintendent, CCSD
&
CEEI Alum
Dr. Greta Peay 
Advisory Team President 
&
NASA Advisory Board Member
&
CEO, Infinity: Diversity Matters, LLC
Billie Rayford
Former Associate Superintendent, CCSD
Rosanne Richards
President Elect, Nevada Central Office Association (NCOA)
&
Director, College, Career, Equity, and School Choice Unit, CCSD
Dr. Darryl Wyatt
Principal, Bailey Middle School, CCSD
&
National Superintendent Academy Alum
Dr. Jeffrey Geihs
NASA Executive Director
&
Former Associate Superintendent, CCSD
Marsha Irvin
NASA Deputy Executive Director
&
Former Region Superintendent, CCSD
Alea Henderson
NASA Administrative Assistant
AGENDA
Saturday, October 16, 2021 - January 28, 2022
ALL TIMES LISTED ARE BASED ON PACIFIC STANDARD TIME

Saturday, October 16, 2021
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Presenters
AJ Adams, NASA President
Dr. Jeffrey Geihs, Executive Director, NASA
Dr. Jesus Jara, Superintendent, Clark County School District
Dr. Kristen McNeill, Superintendent, Washoe County School District
Dr. Pete Gorman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Peter Gorman Leadership Associates LLC
Marsha Irvin, Deputy Director, NASA


Tuesday, October 19, 2021
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM                      
Presenter:
Dr. Peter Gorman
"Aligned Systems Part I"
Student achievement at district scale focused on offering equitable opportunities for all students. Sessions will utilize presentations, videos, large and small group discussions, readings and activities. Dr. Gorman will lead participants through how the highest functioning district/school teams have aligned their beliefs, vision, mission, theory of action, policies, strategic plans, budgets, accountability systems and evaluation systems in a climate of psychological safety with accountability to achieve results for all students in an equitable fashion.


Thursday, October 21, 2021
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM                      
Presenter:
Dr. Peter Gorman
"Aligned Systems Part II"


Tuesday, October 26, 2021
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM                      
Presenter:
Dr. Peter Gorman
"Aligned Systems Part III"


Wednesday, October 27, 2021
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM - Administrators
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Jennifer Harr
Billie Rayford
"Session Leader Discussion from Dr. Gorman's Four Sessions"


Thursday, October 28, 2021
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Presenter:
AJ Adams
"Exploring the Foundations of Successful Mentorship"
In this workshop, CEEI participants will explore theoretical foundations of adult development and learning as it pertains to the mentorship process. Participants will learn various practical techniques and strategies to use as an educator, aspiring leader, and leader. Participants will also explore what traits and characteristics they value in a mentor for themselves. NASA, through the CEEI, has created this professional learning opportunity for all, to not only strengthen their own leadership skills in order to provide support and guidance to the next generation of leaders, but to positively impact our schools and communities to improve student outcomes.
Complimentary .5 Credit follow-up workshop for CEEI Participants on this topic!
Saturday, March 19, 2022
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM


Tuesday, November 2, 2021
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Presenters:
Debbie Brockett
Jan Jones Blackhurst
"Understanding the Barriers and Bias of Women in Leadership Part 1"
This session will dive into the barriers and biases women often face when moving through the ranks of leadership, helping both male and female participants understand how such traits impact leadership. This session will challenge both men and women to identify and change the systematic barriers which may exist that make it less likely for women to aspire to become leaders.


Thursday, November 4, 2021
4:30 PM -7:30 PM
Presenters:
Dr. Silvana Gorton
Dr. Debb Oliver
Marie DuFresne                                          
"Leadership for Social Emotional and Academic Development and Student-Centered Competency Based Learning Nevada’s Need for Social Emotional and Academic Development (SEAD) Part 1"
Participants will articulate the 5 Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Nevada (CASEL) competencies from the school leader perspective, explore the SEL impact on students and adults, school climate, safety and workforce development. 
Complimentary 1 Credit follow-up workshop for CEEI Participants on SEL!
Tuesday, February 22 from 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Thursday, February 24 from 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Saturday, February 26 from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM


Tuesday, November 9, 2021
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM- Administrators
5:00 PM - 5:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Rosanne Richards
"Session Leader Discussion from Ms. Brockett and Ms. Jones-Blackhurst's Session"


Tuesday, November 9, 2021
5:30 PM- 6:00 PM Administrators
6:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Nancy Herrod
"Session Leader Discussion from Dr. Gorton, Ms. Oliver and Ms. DuFresne's Session"


Tuesday, November 9, 2021
6:30 PM - 7:00 PM - Administrators
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
AJ Adams
"Session Leader Discussion from Mr. Adams' Session"


Wednesday, November 10, 2021 
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Presenter:
Dr. Marjorie Conner
"The Importance of Trust:  Trust, a Great Force Multiplier"                             
Why is trust important and for that matter, what is Trust? This session will discuss the important traits of trust and the economy of trust. Further, the discussion will take us into self-trust, relationship trust, organizational trust, market trust, and societal trust and how to build strong trust-based relationships in the workplace. Trust includes pillars that support the work and we will explore what happens if those pillars erode.  The purpose of this session is to explore the notion that trust changes everything.  We will use The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey as the basis on some of our discussion points and build upon the work of Wayne Hoy, Megan Tschannen-Moran and others who continue to proclaim that trust is the foundation of all success.  
Objectives:
1. Define and determine the true meaning of Trust.
2.  Discuss the importance of Trust in the workplace.
3.  Explore the economy of Trust—why trust is a force multiplier.
4.  Explore the waves of trust (self-trust, relationship trust, organizational trust, market trust, societal trust).
5.  Determine behaviors that build trust
6.  Examine the pillars of trust (benevolence, reliability, competence, honesty, openness) 
7.  Outline a plan for improving trust in your workplace.  


Saturday, November 13, 2021
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM                      
Presenter:
Dr. Zachary Robbins
"Engineering School Climate"
Race and ethnicity are assets that contribute to the marketplace of ideas in schools. Diversity makes learning environments rich with possibilities. Rebuffing diversity often strains relationships, damages school climate, and creates unnecessary power struggles between students and an overwhelmingly White and female teaching workforce. This power struggle too often results in out-of-school consequences for students of color. Suspensions and expulsions are poor solutions to this puzzle. Out-of-school behavior consequences leave students out of school, disconnected from academic and emotional supports, and with gaps in their learning. Session participants will learn how to use Restorative Justice to respond to misbehavior and establish expectations that embrace diversity as an asset.

Teachers will learn how the following learning outcomes impact them in the classroom. Site leaders will learn how to supervise in ways to reach these outcomes. District leaders will learn how to support site leaders to make their campuses more restorative and responsive to diverse students and staff.
Session participants will learn how to engineer a school climate that emphasizes safety, belonging, and acceptance of diversity and diverse ideas, which functions as a protective factor against disruptive behavior, how to run restorative justice circles and the restorative justice tribunal, how to coordinate wrap-around support services for students in restorative justice programming that need tier-three emotional or behavioral supports, how implicit biases sometimes influence educators to refer students for disciplinary consequences in disproportionate, culturally insensitive ways. Participants will also learn how to reverse this trend. 


Saturday, November 13, 2021
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM - Administrators
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Dr. Zac Robbins
"Session Leader Discussion from Dr. Robbin's Session"


Saturday, November 13, 2021
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM - Administrators
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Dr. Darryl Wyatt
"Session Leader Discussion from Dr. Conner's Session"


Wednesday, November 17, 2021 
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Presenters:
Dr. Anthony Rolle
Dr. Nicola Alexander
Dr. Gloria Rodriguez
"The Three Faces of Education Finance - Applying Principles of Equity, Efficiency, Adequacy to School Finance and Budgeting"
Education finance researchers tend to organize their thoughts on important issues by considering one of three foundational perspectives: (a) equity, (b) efficiency, and (c) adequacy. Developing analytical paradigms within each of these pillars of education finance, and the interactions between combinations of them, allows researchers and policymakers to understand and examine education finance issues more thoroughly. In particular, 
* When utilizing concepts of equity as a primary analytical paradigm, researchers are concerned with fairness in the generation, exchange, and distribution of human and financial resources, educational ser vices, and educational outcomes. 
* When utilizing concepts of efficiency as a primary analytical paradigm, researchers are concerned with the relation between levels of financial inputs and educational outcomes. 
* When utilizing concepts of adequacy as a primary analytical paradigm, researchers are concerned with ensuring that students are provided ample resources in the pursuit of "high minimum" educational outcomes. 
Drs. Rodriguez, Rolle, and Alexander will base their work within the context of the three pillars and present applied exemplars for their utilization. Each presentation will leave participants with important information and insightful questions about both the usage and efficacy of education finance principles in their daily work. 


Saturday, November 20, 2021 
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Presenter:
Colin Seale
"Beyond Inclusiveness: Implementing Culturally Responsive Pedagogy as an Accelerator for Real Learning Outcomes"
Education equity cannot just be about closing achievement gaps. It must be about shattering achievement ceilings. But when it comes to students of color living in poverty, we often fail to recognize, nurture, and unleash the brilliance they bring to our classrooms. Most attempts to shift towards culturally responsive pedagogy result in important, yet surface-level shifts such as selecting books and historical figures to study who reflect students’ identity and experiences. This workshop goes beyond the surface with powerful, but practical low-floor, high-ceiling, culturally responsive instructional strategies, discussion structures, test prep strategies, approaches to classroom management that maximize student voice and purposefully shift power to students and move past the myth of meritocracy and toward the “hidden” curriculum of success (networking, navigating systems, storytelling etc.).


Saturday, November 20, 2021
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM - Administrators
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Dr. Greta Peay
"Session Leader Discussion from Mr. Seale's Session"


Saturday, November 20, 2021
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM - Administrators
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Bob Mars
"Session Leader Discussion from Dr. Rolle, Dr. Alexander, and Dr. Rodriguez's Session"


Wednesday, December 1, 2021
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Presenters:
Dr. Ken Bird
Burke Harr
Dr. Jim Sutfin
"Public-Private Partnerships:  Making a Difference Through Collaboration and Shared Responsibility Part I"
Public-private partnerships:  Making a difference through collaboration and shared responsibility will provide participants insights in to how leveraging public/private partnerships can be a powerful tool in improving educational opportunities, workforce development and community betterment.  The importance of Governance, public/private funding, stakeholder involvement and communication will all be discussed in this session.  Participants will be provided examples of Public/Private partnerships that have led to positive and meaningful changes.  


Thursday, December 2, 2021
4:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Administrators
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Marsha Irvin
"Session Leader Discussion from Dr. Bird, Mr. Harr, and Dr. Sutfin's Session"


Wednesday, December 8, 2021
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Presenter:
Colin Seale
"Tangible Equity: An Instructional Framework for Identity, Excellence, and Leadership in and Beyond the Classroom"                            
School systems have formed their equity committees, written their equity plans, trained educators in implicit bias workshops, and conducted lots of book studies. But what does educational equity look like on Tuesday morning for a 4th grade general education teacher? For HS chemistry teachers? How can educators prioritize the need to think with an equity lens with the pressures of ensuring academic success? Why do some educators deeply believe in the promise of educational equity still struggle with inequitable academic and disciplinary outcomes in their own classrooms?


Wednesday, January 5, 2022 
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Presenter:
Kevin McPartlin
"Educational Leadership in Action"
At the conclusion of this session, participants will understand the thought process a school leader must employ when challenges arise to bring about positive outcomes; understand the internal communication process (with staff, central office) a school leader must employ when challenges arise that may impact a school; understand the external communication process (with students, parents, community) a school leader must employ when challenges arise that may impact a school; understand the importance and methods to maintain a positive school climate while handling challenges; understand resources and support available to school leaders while addressing challenges; understand the importance of truly knowing a school community (makeup, history, pockets of leadership) to move a school through challenges; understand the importance of documentation when challenges arise; understand how to handle the public relations concerns handling unexpected high profile challenges; reflect on their own knowledge about their own school community; reflect on their own support systems and relationships with various central office personnel; evaluate the level of equity-based decision making occurring at their own school site; evaluate their own level of preparedness to handle high profile challenges. 


Saturday, January 8 , 2022
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Presenters:
Dr. Silvana Gorton
Dr. Debb Oliver
Marie DuFresne                                            
"Leadership for Social Emotional and Academic Development and Student-Centered Competency Based Learning Nevada’s Need for Social Emotional and Academic Development (SEAD) Part II"
Participants will articulate the 5 Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Nevada (CASEL) competencies from the school leader perspective, explore the SEL impact on students and adults, school climate, safety and workforce development. 
Complimentary 1 Credit follow-up workshop for CEEI Participants on SEL!
Tuesday, February 22 from 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Thursday, February 24 from 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Saturday, February 26 from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM


Saturday, January 8, 2022
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM - Administrators
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Nancy Herrod
"Session Leader Discussion From Dr. Gorton, Ms. Oliver and Ms. DuFresne's Session"


Saturday, January 8, 2022
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM - Administrators
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Dr. Greta Peay
"Session Leader Discussion from Mr. Seale's Session"


Saturday, January 8, 2022
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM - Administrators
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Lou Markouzis
"Session Leader Discussion from Mr. McPartlin's Session"


Wednesday, January 12, 2022
4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Presenter:
Dr. Jonathan Moore
Alberto Quintero
"Advancing Equity through the sharing of Power"
Presenters will discuss ways in which individuals and organizations can advance equity through a focus on vision, goals, priorities and support parents and families.
 
Objectives: Participants will learn strategies for advancing equity and sharing power. Participants will reflect on ways in which they can advance equity and share power within their context.

5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Discussion / Reflection Session


Wednesday, January 19 2022
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Presenter:
Debbie Brockett
"Understanding the Barriers and Bias of Women in Leadership Part II"
This session will dive into the barriers and biases women often face when moving through the ranks of leadership, helping both male and female participants understand how such traits impact leadership. This session will challenge both men and women to identify and change the systematic barriers which may exist that make it less likely for women to aspire to become leaders.


Saturday, January 22, 2022
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Presenters:
Dr. Ken Bird
Burke Harr
Dr. Jim Sutfin
"Public-Private Partnerships:  Making a Difference Through Collaboration and Shared Responsibility Part II"


Saturday, January 22, 2022
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM - Administrators
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Marsha Irvin
"Session Leader Discussion from Dr. Bird, Mr. Harr and Dr. Sutfin's Session"


Saturday, January 22, 2022
12:30 PM - 1:00 PM - Administrators
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Rosanne Richards
"Session Leader Discussion from Ms. Brockett's Session"


Tuesday, January 25, 2022
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Presenter:
Dr. Summer Stephens
"Competency-Based Learning"
Dr. Stephens will share lessons learned on the competency-based learning journey as it applies to our time in COVID times. Dr. Stephens is active in promoting excellence and innovation throughout Churchill County School District. With a passion for personalize learning, Dr. Stephens has successfully implemented systems of blended and online learning, voice and choice self-paced learning, project-based learning and design thinking. At the state and national level, she is a strong advocate, working with legislatures to ensure equitable funding and opportunities for learners. Her involvement at the city and county level creates a great connection between school, home and community.
Complimentary .5 Credit follow-up workshop for CEEI Participants on this topic! Saturday, February 26, 2022
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM


Wednesday, January 26, 2022
4:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Administrators
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM - Non-Administrator Participants
Dr. Marbella Alfonzo
"Session Leader Discussion from Dr. Stephen's Session"

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Dr. Jeffrey Geihs
Final Reflections

The remaining 50 hours of time toward the 8 credits will be earned by completion of some light, but meaningful, assignments and attendance at the optional workshops in Winter/Spring 2022: Social Emotional Learning (1 credit), Mentoring & Coaching (.5 credit) and Comptency Based Education (.5 credit).

If CEEI participants elect not to participate in the complimentary workshops, they will earn 6 Credits and the respective CUs, admin step-hours, salary advancement in CEEI #6. CEEI #6 Participants may opt to choose any/all portions of the complimentary follow-up workshops and earn respective credit.
REGISTER TODAY FOR A LOW REGISTRATION RATE GOOD UNTIL OCTOBER 10:

$340 for NASA Members and/or CEEI Alum
That is only $42.50 per credit & $8.50 per CU!

$400 for Non-NASA Members
That is still only $50.00 per credit & $10.00 per CU!

Any educator can become a NASA Member today AND pay the lower registration rate by visiting:
The CEEI counts for salary advancement in Clark, Washoe
and most Nevada School Districts!

So participants can reach the 8 credits, three (3) complimentary optional workshops will be offered this winter/spring to CEEI #6 participants (dates above). These will include:
  • Mentoring and Coaching (.5 credit)
  • The Nuts and Bolts of Competency Based Education (.5 credit)
  • Social Emotional Learning (1 credit)!

In CCSD, those in non-administrative licensed positions may count this workshop for license renewal AND ALSO CU accrual - THOSE IN NON-ADMINISTRATIVE POSITIONS EARN BOTH! 
(unlimited CUs in this category for those in non-administrative positions)

In CCSD, administrators and professional-technical administrators may count this workshop for license renewal OR hour accrual toward step-advancement - not both for administrators. 
(maximum of 30 hours per year for administrators in this category)

Washoe County participants will be required to also register for this course in "MyPGS" in order to receive in-service credit toward salary advancement.

Washoe participants will earn up to 6 credits (salary advancement) and 90 hours (license renewal) for attendance at CEEI #6. Two (2.0) additional credits (plus 30 hours) may be obtained by attending the optional workshops in Winter/Spring 2022 with a separate registration in MyPGS. 
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
AJ Adams
For nearly 25 years, AJ Adams has dedicated his life to serving the nation’s 5th largest school district, the Clark County School District. Throughout his career, he has been afforded a multitude of opportunities including lobbying legislators, teaching special education, an Associate Superintendent, and holding principalships at all three levels.

As the current President of NASA, AJ has extensive experience working with the community, local government municipalities, and state legislators to develop meaningful partnerships in order to provide cutting edge leadership development integrated with his passion of coaching and mentoring leaders. AJ is a graduate of the Harvard Business School Public Education Leadership Program, an alumni of the PEF Executive Leadership Academy, an alumni of NASA’s CEEI, and most recently he obtained a Certificate in Educational Finance through Georgetown University and is a Certified Executive Mindpower Coach. Additionally, he is a Nationally Certified NAESP Principal Mentor and serves on the CCASAPE Board. Currently, he is the instructional leader of a large, urban high school in Las Vegas, and he has two children of his own who both attend schools in Clark County District.

Dr. Ken Bird
President/CEO of Avenue Scholars Foundation and a former school Superintendent. The Bright Futures Foundation (renamed Avenue Scholars Foundation in September 2010) was organized in January 2008 with a pledge to ensure careers for students of hope and need through education and supportive relationships.. Chaired by Omaha philanthropist Walter Scott, the Board of Directors hired Dr. Ken Bird, former Westside Community Schools Superintendent, as the Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Bird began his work in June 2008.

The Avenue Scholars program is designed to provide intrusive support for students of hope and need through high school, college, and into the workforce. Starting in the fall of 2009, Avenue Scholars began serving 174 students in three area high schools and Metro Community College. Avenue Scholars is currently serving approximately 475 students in seven Omaha area high schools, Metro Community College, and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. 

Dr. Bird is well versed in public private school partnerships and shares his expertise with others in order to benefit students. 

Jan Jones Blackhurst
Jan Jones Blackhurst is a long-time political and business leader who spent most of the 1990s as the first woman mayor of Las Vegas – one of the most popular mayors in the city’s history. She then joined Caesars Entertainment, where she and her teams developed the industry’s first Responsible Gaming practices, advancing environmental stewardship and advocating for important social issues. Jan speaks extensively at many universities and helped establish the International Gaming Institution Center of Excellence at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. After leading Corporate Social Responsibility and Public Policy at Caesars for two decades, she joined the Company’s Board of Directors in 2019 where she chairs the Corporate Social Responsibility Committee. She also became Chief Executive in Residence at the UNLV International Gaming Institute, where she was a popular faculty member and key player in the “Expanding the Leaderverse” initiative. She became Executive Director, UNLV Black Fire Leadership Initiative January 2021.

Committed to education, Jan serves as Chairwoman for the Public Education Foundation; she has earned numerous awards and accolades while serving on several boards, including the Las Vegas Stadium Authority and the Nevada Resort Association. In 2014, she was one of the first women to be inducted into the American Gaming Association (AGA) Gaming Hall of Fame. Jones Blackhurst holds a bachelor's degree in English from Stanford University. A Clark County School District School has been named in honor of Ms. Jones Blackhurst's work and accomplishments surrounding education.

Debbie Brockett
Debbie Brockett was name superintendent of the McMinnville School District in March 2021. She comes to the district from Clark County School District in Nevada, where she most recently served as a Region Superintendent, overseeing 108 PK-12 schools, including two Career and Technical Academies, a virtual learning academy, and several magnet schools. 

She began her career in Clark County School District, where she was a special education teacher and coach.She then moved into administration and served as a dean of students, assistant principal and principal. As the principal of Las Vegas High School, she improved the Advanced Placement course offerings, increased the career and technical pathways, and consistently increased the graduation rate for all student groups.In 2016, she was chosen to receive the Heart of Education Award for Innovation in Schools.
Ms. Brockett has been active in improving student achievement at the school, district, and state level and served on various boards and associations. She also extends her passion for teaching to National University where she is an adjunct professor in the school leadership and special education departments.


Dr. Marjorie Conner
Dr. Marjorie Conner, President and Chief Executive Officer of MMC Consulting, Inc., has been recognized as an education leader in Nevada for over 40 years.  She has served as a teacher, curriculum writer and professional development specialist; assistant principal; principal; Area Superintendent; and Assistant Region Superintendent in Clark County School District.  She has worked as an educational consultant in leadership, school improvement, and building relationships with the Nevada State Department of Education, with school districts including CCSD, RPDP, and with individual school leaders.
 
Her career began as a teacher in New Raymer, Colorado, and in Clark County, Nevada.  She served CCSD as an administrator until 2003.  Under her leadership as an Assistant Region Superintendent, the PLC process was brought to the most at-risk schools to improve collaboration, data usage, and a means to improve student outcomes.  She received her doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and has taught at Nova University, University of Phoenix, and UNLV.  She has worked in CCSD’s central office on leadership improvement, school improvement, and leadership development with the Academic Unit and Turnaround Zone.  

Marie DuFresne, M.A. 
Marie DuFresne is on a mission to make sure that every student in Nevada is not only proficient but experts in social emotional knowledge, skills and abilities. Licensed and trained as a K-12 Professional School Counselor, Marie has over sixteen years of experience in the Nevada education system. She currently works for the Nevada Department of Education and serves as the Social Emotional Academic Development program professional for the Office for a Safe and Respectful Learning Environment.  
She was awarded Nevada School Counselor of the Year in 2013 and was also a semi-finalist for the 2013 American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Counselor of the Year. Marie received her Master of Arts degree in Educational Counseling from the University of Phoenix and Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Nevada, Reno. Although she was not born in Nevada, Marie considers herself a native Nevadan as she has spent most of her life in this spectacular state. She is married and a proud mother of two adult sons, who all share a love of the outdoors. She is also a certified instructor for Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid and Nevada Hunter Education.

Dr. Peter Gorman
Dr. Peter Gorman is Superintendent in residence with the District Administration Leadership Institute with more than 30 years of experience in education and business. He is also Chief in residence with Chiefs for Change guiding the Future Chiefs program working to build a pipeline of “Future Chiefs” for states and districts.  He is the author of the book “Leading a School District Requires Clarity, Contact, and Candor. An Aligned System to Increase Student Achievement at Scale” and is contributing editor of “Board & Administrator” writing the lead column monthly.

Dr. Gorman’s career began as a second-grade teacher in Orlando, Florida.  He worked as a teacher, principal, and district-level administrator in Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties in Florida before becoming superintendent of schools in Tustin, California. In 2006, Dr. Gorman became superintendent of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools in North Carolina. Under his leadership, the district won the 2011 Broad Prize in Urban Education, which recognizes increases in student achievement and closing of achievement gaps. Twenty members of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Leadership Team during his tenure have been appointed as superintendents nationally.

Silvana Gorton, PhD
Dr. Silvana Gorton oversees Title II, Part A for the State of Nevada. Silvana provides support and technical assistance to district leaders in aligning district activities and initiatives to state and district priorities, and to three broad goals of Title IIA: effective, experienced, and prepared educators. Silvana's expertise includes MTSS, social emotional and academic development (SEAD), and the integration of SEAD competencies in effective instructional practices. Silvana serves as a thought-partner and collaborative ally to school leaders in creating conditions across every learning context that increases educator capacity, effectiveness, and leadership, and promotes equitable outcomes for all students.​

Burke J. Harr, Esq.
Burke Harr was elected to the Nebraska legislature in 2010. Harr grew up in Omaha. He received his Bachelors in Political Science in 1994 at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He continued his education at the University of Notre Dame School of Law receiving his J.D. in 1998. Following graduation, Harr returned to Nebraska to clerk for the Nebraska Court of Appeals for one year before serving as a Douglas County prosecutor.

Harr’s current practice focuses on Public-Private partnerships with organizations, institutions, and governmental bodies.  His clients’ concerns are in the arena of juvenile justice, criminal justice, housing, youth violence, affordable housing, education, work force development, tax policy, and health care.

Harr currently works at Houghton Bradford Whitted.  Harr resides in Omaha with his wife, Jennifer, an elementary school principal, and three children, Rita, 12, Gussie 11, and Ambrose 6.

Harr served in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in San Fransico, CA.  He has served on the Project Harmony Board, Ak-Sar-Ben Floor Committee, and Creighton Hilltopper Board.  He currently serves on the boards of the Big Garden Board, a community garden organization, Museum of Nebraska Art, and is chair of the board for GESU, a non profit that builds homes in high poverty neighborhoods.

Dr. Jesus F. Jara 
Knows our kids only have one shot at school. That is what drives him to help make the Clark County School District (CCSD) the number one choice for students and their families.

Dr. Jara has a unique perspective after moving to Miami from Venezuela as an English- Language Learner. Teachers invested in him as a child, and Dr. Jara has set a priority of ensuring equity and access for our historically underserved and under-resourced students.

Dr. Jara has more than 20 years of experience serving public school students, including serving as the deputy superintendent for Orange County Public Schools in Florida, the superintendent and chief operations officer in Monroe County Public Schools (Florida), as executive director of the College Board’s Florida Partnership, and as an assistant principal and principal in Springfield, Mass, He began his career in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, where he was a bilingual biology teacher and coach.

He received his Doctorate in Education, Educational Policy, Leadership, and Administration from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst.

Dr. Kristen McNeill
 Dr. Kristen McNeill is a native Nevadan who moved to the Reno-Sparks area in 1996. She has worked for more than two decades in public education with more than 26 years with Washoe County School District (WCSD). She began her career with WCSD teaching grades 2 through 6, then served as the principal of Lois Allen Elementary School and later at Marvin Moss Elementary School.

Dr. McNeill became the WCSD Director of State and Federal Programs/K-16 Initiatives in 2008, then was named Chief Strategies Officer in 2010. She assumed the duties of Chief of Staff for the Washoe County School District in 2012 and also served as Interim Superintendent in the summer of 2012.
In September 2015, Dr. McNeill was appointed to the Deputy Superintendent position for WCSD. In that role, she oversaw the areas of Office of School Leadership, Office of Academics, and the Strategies Office. In July 2019, Dr. McNeill was appointed by the Board of Trustees to serve as Interim Superintendent. She was appointed to the position of Superintendent of Schools for the Washoe County School District in April 2020.

Dr. McNeill serves on several non-profit boards including Truckee Meadows Healthy Communities, Communities in Schools J4NG, and EDAWN. Throughout her career she has contributed to various District, state, and national committees on educational issues. As a representative of WCSD, she has supported efforts in the Nevada State Legislature related to important education matters for the children of Washoe County and the state of Nevada.
While Dr. McNeill is a strong supporter of public education in all areas, she has maintained a concerted focus on students in poverty, homelessness, and early childhood education.

Dr. McNeill holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel Administration and a master’s degree in Instructional and Curricular Studies from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Dr. McNeill received her educational leadership credential as well as her doctorate in educational leadership at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Kevin McPartlin
Originally from Detroit (MI), Kevin McPartlin moved to Nevada in 1997 and began his career teaching all levels of math at Las Vegas High School in east Las Vegas.  During his twenty-five years in education, he has had the privilege of working with students and communities in every corner of the Las Vegas valley.  Now, in his sixteenth year as a principal, he is the longest serving high school principal in the 5th largest school district in the country.

In 2006, McPartlin became the principal of Chaparral High School in southeast Las Vegas.  Chaparral was greatly impacted by the expansion of the city of Las Vegas and it had endured a decade of negative trends in academic performance, student engagement, and overall school climate.  McPartlin worked with the staff to restructure the entire school into four autonomous learning academies, each developed around students’ self-identified interests.  During his five years at Chaparral, students demonstrated double-digit growth in math and ELA, enrollment in Advanced Placement courses increased by 113%, and participation in extra-curricular activities increased by 62%. 

In 2011, McPartlin was named principal at Arbor View High School in northwest Las Vegas.  A very different school than Chaparral, he turned his focus to closing achievement gaps between subgroups and promoting initiatives related to inclusion and equity for all students.  As part of these efforts, McPartlin implemented an Advisory Program to promote positive relationships, personal wellness, and life skills.  He removed structures and processes that potentially hindered students from accessing higher level courses and programming.  Throughout his tenure at Arbor View, achievement gaps have been drastically reduced and graduation rates have increased for all student subgroups. Arbor View was recognized in 2013, and again in 2016, as having the highest graduation rate of any comprehensive high school in Las Vegas.  

McPartlin’s leadership has been recognized numerous times within the state of Nevada throughout his career, including being named Administrator of the Year by the Nevada Thespians Association in 2021, by the Nevada PTA in 2010, and by the Nevada Association of Student Councils in 2007.

Having established himself as a proven educational leader, McPartlin has presented at numerous educational symposiums, including statewide and national conferences in Las Vegas, Reno, Lake Tahoe, San Diego, Vancouver (WA), and Washington D.C.  His presentation topics have included Ninth Grade Academies, Advisory Periods, and Managing School Change.

Dr. Jonathan Moore
Dr. Jonathan Moore is the Deputy Superintendent of Student Achievement the Nevada Department of Education. Jonathan began serving in this role in November 2018. Under the leadership of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Jonathan oversees the offices of; Assessment, Data, and Accountability Management; Early Learning and Development; Inclusive Education; Standards and Instructional Support; and Student and School Support. Jonathan previously served as the Deputy Associate Superintendent of K-12 Academic Standards at the Arizona Department of Education where he led a team whose work led to the adoption of the state’s academic standards for English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies and Computer Science, all within two years. Jonathan also led a team of his colleagues in the state’s initiative to redesign its system for MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) among other initiatives.

Prior to this role, he was a Principal of one of the largest K-8 schools in south Phoenix where his students showed significant improvements in Mathematics and Reading. Also under his leadership, teacher effectiveness and teacher retention improved. Jonathan began his career as a secondary social studies Teacher. He would then become a School Improvement Program Specialist where he supported his colleagues with the implementation of a new reading curriculum followed by serving as an Assistant Principal. In addition to his teaching experience at the elementary and secondary level, Jonathan also served as an adjunct professor at various universities.

Jonathan earned bachelor's degrees in Political Science and International Studies from Loyola University Chicago. He also earned a master’s degree in Secondary Education and a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Innovation, both from Arizona State University.

Alberto Quintero
Alberto Quintero is the Education Programs Professional for Family Engagement in the Office of Educator Development, Licensure, and Family Engagement (EDLiFE) at the Nevada Department of Education. His role at the Department is to actively promote and support the participation and engagement of families and the community in a child’s education. Prior to his current role, Alberto served as a Leadership for Educational Equity (LEE) Public Policy Fellow in the Nevada Governor’s Office and a LEE Policy and Advocacy Summer Fellow in the Nevada Department of Education. During his time in the Governor’s Office, he performed research and provided analysis to finalize the Governor’s education and workforce development legislative package and budget. He also assisted the Department in preparing, writing, and successfully submitting the State’s education plan under the Every Student Succeeds Act. A Teach For America alum, Alberto started his educational equity advocacy journey at Robison Middle School in Las Vegas, where he taught 7th grade English Language Arts and Fundamentals. Alberto's theory of change seeks to bring community members together to authentically engage, commit, collaborate, and advocate for the systemic and accessible distribution of resources, supports, and knowledge, which requires us to elevate and value the voice of all the people we serve and be a representative for a diverse set of perspectives and identities.

Dr. Gloria M. Rodriguez
Gloria's current research explores notions of educational investment that reflect efforts to build upon community strengths in order to address community needs within and beyond educational settings. Dr. Rodriguez also engages in research that focuses on the political economic conditions and educational trajectories of Chicana/o-Latina/o communities, other communities of color, and low-income populations in the U.S.

Current projects include Leadership for Real Impact (LRI) in K-12 schools and Community Colleges; Project EXCEL (Examining College Choice, Enrollment & Linkages); Testimonios of Educational Leadership in K-12 and Higher Education: Abriendo Puertas, Cerrando Heridas (Opening Doors, Closing Wounds) book project & Association of Mexican American Educators (AMAE) Journal special issue on testimonios of Latina/o educational leadership, guest co-editor with Dr. Rebeca Burciaga, San José State University.

Dr. Zachary Robbins
Dr. Zachary Scott Robbins currently serves the students of the Clark County School District as the Principal of Cheyenne High, a comprehensive high school with approximately 3000 students.

Dr. Robbins is also president of the company Restorative Justice Solutions. He has turned around several secondary schools, and he trains school leaders, teachers, and private sector employees about how to launch restorative justice programs. Routledge Education Press will publish his book about restorative practices in early 2021. Zac was educated at Howard University in Washington, DC, and he earned his Ph.D. in Education Administration at the Boston College Lynch School of Education. You can find Dr. Robbins on Twitter at DrZacRobbins and online at www.getrestorativejustice.com.

Dr. Anthony Rolle
R. Anthony Rolle, PhD, is Dean of the University of South Florida (USF) College of Education. An experienced leader with more than two decades of professional service to the field of education, Dr. Rolle has established a long-standing commitment to supporting student access for student academic success, faculty excellence in research and instruction, and increasing community engagement. 
 
As Dean of the USF College of Education, Dr. Rolle is responsible for leading the college’s 2,200 students and 130 faculty members who are spread across USF’s three campuses. He also serves as a professor in the College of Education’s Department of Leadership, Policy, and Lifelong Learning.
 
A former professor and department chair at USF, Dr. Rolle returned to the College of Education after serving as dean of the Alan Shawn Feinstein College of Education & Professional Studies at the University of Rhode Island for four years. Prior to his tenure at the University of Rhode Island, Rolle also held leadership positions at the University of Houston and Texas A&M University.
 
Dr. Rolle is a nationally recognized scholar with expertise in K-12 education finance and economic policy. He has developed models to measure effectiveness and efficiency in public school systems, managed national and internationally recognized research projects for government and nonprofit organizations, increased endowed student scholarships, enhanced community partnerships, and supported faculty excellence in research and teaching on an international scale.
 
Dr. Rolle’s past professional service includes serving as President of the National Education Finance Academy and as a Distinguished Research Fellow at the Shanghai Academy of Education Sciences. He serves on editorial and advisory boards for a number national education associations and is a research fellow for the National Education Policy Center’s Education and Public Interest Center and Education Policy Research Unit.

Colin Seale
Tackling inequity hands-on has always been personal to Colin, because the amazing educational opportunities he received in gifted and talented courses and an exclusive specialized high school despite his underprivileged background growing up in Brooklyn, NY made him an exception to a painfully unjust rule. So whether Colin was teaching middle and high school math in Washington, D.C. and Las Vegas, NV, applying his computer science degree and Master’s in Public Administration to fight for child safety at Nevada’s largest child welfare agency, or practicing as a business attorney at one of Las Vegas’ top law firms while representing children in foster care, Colin has always dreamed of a world where stories like his were no longer the exception, but instead, all students had an equal shot at being exceptional. Colin created thinkLaw to give all students access to the type of game-changing critical thinking education they need to not only fully understand the way the world is, but to question it and imagine the way the world ought to be. When he’s not serving as the world’s greatest critical thinking evangelist, Colin proudly serves as the world’s greatest entertainer for his two little kiddos. His new book Thinking Like a Lawyer: A Framework for Teaching Critical Thinking to All Students is out April 2020.

Dr. Summer E. Stephens
Dr. Stephens currently serves student in Nevada as the Superintendent of Churchill County Schools. Summer engages staff, students, and the community in collaborative conversations and activities designed to promote excellence and innovation.  With a passion for personalized learning through a competency-based lens.  Summer has successfully implemented systems of blended and online learning, voice and choice, self-paced learning, project-based learning, and design thinking. A specific focus of her work has included bridging the gap between courses traditionally identified as core and CTE, working to ensure that systems have opportunities and pathways for all students to engage in future-ready work.  She is a strong advocate for schools at the state and national level, working with legislators to ensure equitable funding and opportunities for learners.  Her involvement at the city and county level  creates a great connection between school, home, and community.
 
Summer has been thoroughly involved in all levels of education, serving on the board of a two-county early childhood center to serving on the Complete College Wyoming Advisory group and participating in the national level of Future Ready Schools. She has experience with a K-20 Learning management system adoption team, developing a statewide open education resource library, and other components of a strong competency-based learning approach.  She is a graduate of the AASA National Superintendent Certification program and AASA’s Personalized Learning Cohort.   She is currently a member of the NV Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission, the Nevada Department of Education’s Blue Ribbon Task Force, Vice President of the Nevada Association of School Superintendents, and sits on the Churchill Economic Development Business Council and the United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra Board of Directors. 
 
Summer holds a Doctor of Education and Specialist Degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Master of Education and Bachelor of Arts degrees from Doane College.  

Dr. Jim Sutfin
Dr. Jim Sutfin stepped into the role of superintendent for Millard Public Schools in fall of 2014. Currently he serves as the leader of a district of 35 schools with more nearly 24,000 students and more than 3,000 teachers and staff members. Previously he served as the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for the district. Along with his time in the central office, he has also filled the roles of principal, assistant principal, science department head and science teacher. He began his teaching career in Bellevue in 1989 and has been with Millard since 1995.

In 2016 he was named a Superintendent to Watch by the National School Public Relations Association and in 2020 he was named the Nebraska Superintendent of the Year.

Dr. Sutfin has made many presentations to educational, civic and business groups. He is active in many community organization and serves on a number of boards including the Omaha Chamber of Commerce, MOEC Executive Task Force, Foundation for Millard Public Schools and the GOALS Committee.
Dr. Sutfin leadership has focused on finding wide ranging solutions to significant school and community challenges. He has led the successful development and implementation of the strategic plan. He led a successful tax levy override campaign in the fall of 2017 with nearly 63% voter approval. Despite significant budget constraints, Dr. Sutfin led the successful implementation of a 1:1 learning initiative that spans grades 6-12. Dr. Sutfin implemented the first Early College Program in Nebraska where high school students can earn their high school diploma and associate of arts degree simultaneously.

Dr. Sutfin has served as a consultant to other districts in the areas of strategic planning, recruitment and hiring practices, leadership development and succession planning, social media/communication, digital learning, and crisis management.
SESSION LEADER BIOGRAPHIES
Dr. Marbella Alfonzo
Dr. Marbella Alfonzo has been in the field of education for over twenty years and is the Principal at Garside Jr. High School. She was also the NASSP Assistant Principal of the Year for the state of Nevada for 2019. She earned a Doctorate Degree in Education with an emphasis in Teaching and Learning from Argosy University-Sarasota and she has also earned a Masters in Educational Leadership and TESL from Lynn University as well as a Master of Arts in Spanish and French from Saint Louis University. While at Saint Louis University she received her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and French. Dr. Alfonzo also graduated from the Public Education Foundation's Executive Leadership Academy Cohort 7 in 2019 and from the NASA CEEI Leadership Institute Cohort 1. Dr. Alfonzo also serves as an Administrative Liaison for CCSD's Department of Equity and Diversity, has a certificate from Duke University in Activism and Social Movements, has taken several courses through Harvard Graduate School of Education pertaining to Women's History, Racial Justice, and Inclusive Practices. Dr. Alfonzo also serves as the NASA Secretary and is a proud member of the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS). Dr. Alfonzo is passionate about education and loves mentoring and motivating students, teachers, and fellow administrators.

Jennifer Harr
After earning her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Creighton University in 1997, Harr began her career in education as an elementary school teacher for a parochial school. In 2004, she earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, which led to an appointment as a classroom teacher and Team Leader within Westside Community Schools in Omaha, NE. In 2008, she became an elementary school principal in which she continues to serve. Harr’s experience in education now spans nearly 25 years and is defined by increasing levels of responsibility and success. In December of 2021, she will earn her Education Specialist degree from Doane University in Nebraska.    

Nancy Herrod
Nancy Herrod began her teaching career in NV after teaching K-12 and adult education in several states. Prior to teaching in Nevada she was a general education teacher switching to special education in Las Vegas. Her A.S., B.S., and M.S. degrees were all earned in Nebraska and her Ed.S. degree was earned at UNLV. After ten (10) years in administration holding several positions with CCSD, she took her current position with Odyssey Charter Schools K-12 as Director of Federal Programs. Her career has been spent not only being a child advocate, but as a mentor for teachers, school staff and other administrators. Nancy said, " I'm always happy to play an active role with NASA having been involved in this organization for many years."

Louis J. Markouzis
Lou Markouzis has spent the last 25 years as an educator in a variety of roles from teacher to administrator. He currently serves as the Principal of Carroll M. Johnston Middle School. Lou is an active member in the education community, having served on several organizations throughout his administrative career, including current board member and president-elect of Nevada Association of School Administrators (NASA), and current Representative Counsel Member of the Clark County Association of School Administrators and Profesional-Technical Employees (CCASAPE - term ending June 2022). Lou also has served as past President (2016-2019) and Treasurer (2019-2020) of CCASAPE and as the past Treasurer of Secondary Schools Principals Association of Nevada (SSPAN - 2013-2015).  Mr. Markouzis holds a ME.D. in Educational Administration with a focus in curriculum, instruction, and assessment from the Touro University of Nevada. He also has his MS and BA degrees in K-12 Education. Mr. Markouzis has experience as a teacher and administrator in K-12 education, serving in roles as a high school teacher, high school administrator, and elementary principal.  

Robert Mars
Robert Mars began his career in the Clark County School District in 1993 as a math teacher and he became an administrator in 1998. He retired in 2021 after serving as the Principal of Shadow Ridge HS and previously served as a School Associate Superintendent, MS Principal, HS Assistant Principal, MS/HS Dean, and MS/HS teacher. Over the past 20 years, Robert has served on the boards of NASA (Nevada Association of School Administrators), CCASAPE (Clark County Association of School Administrators and Professional Technical Employees) and CCASSP (Clark County Association of Secondary School Principals) in various capacities. Robert also serves as the NASSP (National Association of Secondary School Principals) State Coordinator. He has remained actively involved in the legislative process and traveled to Carson City as well as Washington DC on behalf of educators to speak with elected officials. As a lifelong educator, Robert understands the importance of education and the positive impact Developing Leadership Capacity and Building Effective Schools can have on the lives of students, educators, and the entire school community. Because of his experiences and contributions to education in Nevada, Robert was selected to be a member of the "Blue Ribbon Commission for a Globally Prepared Nevada," which has already begun to meet.

Dr. Greta Peay
Greta Peay joined the Clark County School District (CCSD) in 1987, following eight impressive years of service within the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System, Charlotte, North Carolina. She has dedicated thirty-nine years of service to the education profession. Her career is best described as a change agent and an advocate for social justice, and equitable opportunities. Greta Peay is locally and nationally known for her professional development skills to educate others about best practices in the areas of literacy, language acquisition, differentiated instruction, cultural competency, diversity, equity, inclusion, and matters related to educational and organizational equity.  She retired from the Clark County School District as the Chief, Instructional Services Officer, where she was responsible for divisions such as:

·       Assessment, Accountability, Research and School Improvement
·       Adult Education and Alternative Education
·       Athletics and Fine Arts
·       CCSD Charter Schools
·       College and Career Readiness
·       Curriculum and Professional Development
·       English Language Learner Programs
·       Equity and Diversity Education
·       Grants Department, Inclusive of Title I and Title II Federal Grants
·       Indian Education Opportunities Program
·       Magnet Schools
·       Student Services Division, Special Education

Throughout her career, Greta Peay has served as an elementary and a middle school teacher; a Title 1 Language Arts Learning Strategist, an English Language Learner Specialist, a Literacy Specialist, a Regional Professional Development Literacy Trainer for Southern Nevada Regional Professional Development Program, a special education middle school teacher, an elementary level school site principal, a CCSD Northeast Region Coordinator, a Director of Support Staff and Teacher Recruitment, Director of Equity and Diversity, Multicultural  Adjunct Professor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas and a community advocate. 

She is a licensed certified educator in two states, North Carolina, and Nevada. She completed 80-hours of curriculum earning a cultural diversity diploma from the Intercultural Research Development Academy and she is certified via the Cultural Intelligence Center on cultural competency and bias. Greta is an active board member on the following Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Boards- Discovery Children’s Museum, McGraw- Hill Publishing Company, and the Nevada Association of School Administrators. Currently, she is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of her own consulting business; Infinity: Diversity Matters, LLC.


Billie Knight Rayford
Billie Knight Rayford is a retired associate superintendent of the Clark County School District in Las Vegas, Nevada. Following retirement from the school district in 2011, she was appointed principal and compliance director of Rainbow Dreams Academy, a K-5 charter school, where she became involved in the National Park Foundation, Zion National Park, Zion National Park Forever Project, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, and Outside Las Vegas Foundation Concrete to Canyons partnership. This partnership introduced urban youth from Las Vegas to the national park system. This amazing collaboration led to a life changing opportunity to work as a youth program instructor at Zion National Park. Following that experience, Mrs. Rayford returned to Clark County School District to serve as the Interim Chief Educational Opportunities Officer, Interim Chief Instructional Services Officer, and Title IX Officer. She serves as a consultant for Magnet Schools of America – National Institute for Magnet Schools Leadership and is celebrating 48 years as an educator. 

Rosanne Richards
I am Rosanne Richards and currently serve as the College, Career, Equity, and School Choice Unit Director. I have been with the Clark County School District since August 2003 and always put the needs of students at the forefront of my work. I began teaching at the elementary level and moved to middle school early in my career. I taught middle school English Language Arts and Publications for several years at Molasky Junior High School. I worked for the Southern Nevada Regional Professional Development Program as an English Language Arts Secondary Literacy Trainer and then became a Dean of Students at the middle school level in August 2012. After serving as a Dean of Students, I joined the Instruction Unit as a Coordinator and then served as the Academic Unit Director. Additionally, working in central office and in the field, I know the importance of supporting schools at all levels with a first-rate balance of leadership. 

Dr. Jolene E. Wallace
Dr. Jolene E. Wallace received her Bachelor of Science degree in Education (French) from Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, Ohio.  Her formal education continued with a Masters Degree in Educational Administration from the University of Dayton and the Doctor of Education (Curriculum and Instruction) from the University of Cincinnati.  Various other educational endeavors include graduate study at Wright State University (Ohio), Ball State University (Indiana), and Harvard University (Massachusetts).  Her formal education brought the honors of being named a University of Cincinnati Graduate Fellow, the only student selected to chair a Board Appointed Standing Committee at the University of Cincinnati, and two Distinguished Dissertation awards.

Dr. Wallace has spent over fifty years in professional education.  Her career began as a teacher (French & English) in Hamilton, Georgia.  She later moved to Dayton, Ohio and spent thirty-one years in Dayton Public Schools.  She began as a teacher and moved through the ranks to assistant principal, principal, Lead Principal, and Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education.  During her tenure in Ohio, Dr. Wallace worked as adjunct professor at Central State University and Wright State University.  She retired from Dayton Public Schools in 1999.

After retirement, Dr. Wallace assumed the position of Project Manager for Edison Schools, Incorporated.  She opened a new charter school for the Edison company in Dayton.  Later, she was appointed to the National Faculty of the Comer School Development Program in the Child Study Center at Yale University.  In this endeavor, she worked with school districts around the country as the implemented the Comer Schools Program.  In 2005, Dr. Wallace accepted the position of Southwest Region Superintendent in the Clark County School District in Las Vegas, NV.  Initially she supervised the day-to-day operation of 56 schools.  With her staff, she was able to increase academic achievement in the Southwest schools.  Dr. Wallace retired from the Clark County School District in 2012.  Her position at that time was Associate Superintendent of Area Service Center 3 which included 108 schools and responsibilities with the Facilities Department.

Throughout her career, Dr. Wallace’s research and focus remained on supporting the educational needs of children and families by making schools more user friendly.  She orchestrated staff development activities to prepare teachers and staff for the changing needs of urban children and to better understand their learning styles.  Her dissertation research “Student Perceptions of Teacher Behaviors that Lead to Success or Failure in Urban Secondary Classrooms” involved the students in her community and their families.

Dr. Wallace currently serves as President, of the Dynamic Las Vegas Chapter of the Wilberforce University National Alumni Association.  She is also a Golden Life (50 years) member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.  In her spare time, she enjoys reading, traveling, and bid whist.

Dr. Darryl Wyatt
Dr. Wyatt has served as a CCSD Administrator for over 20 years. He has been a principal at both Elementary and Middle School. A majority of his time as principal has been at Title 1 Turnaround Schools. In 2018, Dr. Wyatt was recognized by the National Association of Elementary Principals as Nevada’s Elementary Principal of the Year. Dr. Wyatt enjoys coaching, mentoring, and teaching future leaders. He is a temporary instructor at UNLV teaching in the Educational Policy and Leadership Master's Program. Dr. Wyatt is an Alum of the National Superintendent Academy as well as CEEI.