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ROE 17 POD

ROE 17 POD

By: Regional Office of Education # 17
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Education is empowerment. Join Regional Office of Education # 17, an educational service agency in Central Illinois as we interview different educators, leaders, innovators, and creators who are reimagining PK-12 education. Join us every other week on Tuesdays!Copyright 2026 ROE 17 POD Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Passing the Torch: A Career Retrospective with Mark E. Jontry
    Apr 21 2026
    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 over the reins. Join us for a look at three decades of service to the students, educators, and families of DeWitt, Livingston, Logan, and McLean counties.
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    15 mins
  • Licensure Renewal and Educator Pathways with Phaedra Morris
    Apr 7 2026
    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.
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    9 mins
  • Beyond the Dates: Understanding the School Calendar Process with Victoria Padilla
    Mar 10 2026
    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 sheds light on how holidays, parent-teacher conferences, and E-Learning days are integrated into the official calendar before it ever reaches the State Board of Education. If you've ever been curious about the "how" and "why" behind your student's school year, this episode is for you!
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    13 mins
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