How Do ICLE Alumni Describe the Program?

"The ICLE was the most comprehensive, interesting and just plain fun introduction to the world of education that I have ever been exposed to. My eyes have been opened to new ways of looking at complex issues that affect our children and our future. I have a more nuanced view of some of the most pressing issues facing education today, thanks to the ICLE."

Doug Graham
Parent, Pittsburgh Public Schools


"One of the benefits I derived from the ICLE program was the opportunity to meet others from the area who are interested in education from many perspectives. It was interesting to see and learn how different districts have different priorities, and also, to hear from Board members how they perceive parent input. I think the most valuable part of the program was the trip to Harrisburg at such a critical time. It was interesting to review the Governor's education proposal in depth, and then to meet with legislators to hear what they think of it. The ICLE program encourages me to remain an active part of the community for education issues; my understanding of the various points of view has increased my interest and ability to think critically from other points of view."

Judith Dexter
Parent, Bethlehem Area School District


"This institute was fantastic. To me the best part of this was having teachers, board members, union representatives, community leaders, and youth coordinators, in the same room listening to the same educational problems and information, then discussing them and how we in Pennsylvania can help find solutions to the long-standing problems in our educational learning. It was very useful to listen to all the speakers, and also to be able to talk to representatives from the state and be able to give an opinion on what we should do. I felt this was so useful and so did my benefactors, that they would like me to attend again when it convenes in the fall. Thank you again for your continued support and help in letting the public know and understand the status of PA Education."

Bill O'Sick
Educator and Youth Coordinator
South Central Region, Workforce Investment Board


"The knowledge I have gained from this course has enlightened my view point of the public school system and the endless opportunities that are offered. Before taking the course I thought I knew about the public education system, however this course showed me how much I really didn't know."

Bethann Sedora
Parent, Northwestern Lehigh School District


"If you want to learn about the most important educational issues of the moment, listen to panels of educators who represent all aspects of public education, meet fellow classmates who are just as determined as you to find the best solutions to the problems in our schools then you must attend the ICLE program."

Karen Samuels
Parent, Saucon Valley School District


"I have gained a better knowledge about how school boards came about and better knowledge of how "they are supposed to work". Secondly, I have gained more knowledge of what role our state legislators play in public education."

Aurelia Carter
Parent Advocate, Pittsburgh


"My participation in ICLE gave me the right tools and the confidence to run for the Allentown School Board. I feel I can serve the school district, the students, parents and my community better with the knowledge I gained from this important program."

Gina Kormanick
Marketing Specialist
Lehigh County Community and Economic Development


"Because of the ICLE program I feel empowered to work with my district to enact the necessary changes to ensure that the children in BASD get the best education possible."

Maureen Venkersammy
Parent, Bethlehem Area School District

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