Spring Conference

Dan Meers - March 25, 2021 Thursday Morning Keynote

Courageous Leadership Living A Life Of Influence

On November 23, 2013, Dan Meers came within inches of losing his life while practicing a bungee jump and zip line stunt at Arrowhead Stadium… home of the Kansas City Chiefs. What Dan anticipated being the thrill of a lifetime ended up being the spill of a lifetime. The stunt went terribly wrong and Dan plummeted 75 feet before crashing into the stadium seats. Miraculously Dan survived. He spent 9 days in the hospital and got some really big scars. Dan smiles when he says, “Scars are just Tattoos that come with a Cool Story”. During this powerful presentation Dan shares his incredible story and the important lessons that he learned during his long road to recovery about leadership and about life.

Dr. Matthew Blomstedt - March 25, 2021 Thursday Noon Keynote

Dr. Matthew Blomstedt was named Commissioner of Education by the State Board of Education on January 2, 2014.

Dr. Blomstedt served as the Executive Director of the Nebraska Educational Service Unit Coordinating Council until December 2013. He previously served as the first full-time Executive Director of the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association, a research analyst for the Education Committee of the Nebraska Legislature, and has worked in a variety of policy research roles over the past 16 years. Dr. Blomstedt earned a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Higher Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as well as a Master’s Degree in Community and Regional Planning.

Dr. Blomstedt is a native Nebraskan whose career has focused on local, regional and statewide education issues. Blomstedt’s experience includes education finance and organization, assessment and accountability, professional development, and the development of systems to enhance blended and distance learning opportunities across the state.

His address is a welcome opportunity to hear the latest happening with the State Board of Education and the Department of Education.

Dr. Salome Thomas-El - March 26, 2021 Friday Keynote

Resilient Teachers and Leaders: Challenging the Status Quo

“Stop praying for a lighter load, and start praying for a stronger back.” This is the mantra of Dr. Salome Thomas-EL, award-winning teacher and principal, and internationally recognized educator. Principal EL believes that resilient teachers and leaders take risks, make courageous decisions, and challenge the status quo. They understand that teaching is not easy, it’s hard work, but it’s good work. As passionate educators, we are able to make a difference in the lives of our students and ensure they are all exposed to an engaging curriculum and effective teaching.

In his thought-provoking presentation, Principal EL shares how we can develop positive relationships and foster a supportive school culture so teachers and leaders can focus on the protective processes that impact and build resilience in all of our students. Principal EL brings a powerful combination of passion, caring, and leadership to craft a refreshing, common-sense roadmap for parents, teachers and administrators to help kids achieve their dreams, no matter the odds.

A list of concurrent sessions will be available at a later date.

The schedule for the 2021 Spring Conference will be available at a later date.