Supervisor Symposium Sessions

Conflict often gets a bad reputation, but avoiding it can lead to even bigger problems in the workplace. In this engaging keynote, you'll learn how to reframe conflict as a productive tool for building stronger teams and better results. Explore Karpman's Drama Triangle and discover how to move from reactive roles to a more productive approach using the Empowerment Dynamic. Gain practical tools for navigating difficult conversations with confidence and strategies to cool tensions when conflict grows too intense. Walk away with a clear path to healthier, more effective collaboration. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the dynamics of Karpman's Drama Triangle and how to shift from reactive to empowered roles using the Empowerment Dynamic. 2. Learn practical techniques for initiating and navigating difficult conversations in a constructive and collaborative way. 3. Develop skills to de-escalate heated conflicts and create a safe space for open dialogue and resolution.

Success isn't just about racing to the top—it's about making thoughtful, strategic decisions that align with where you truly want to be. This session will guide you through the process of identifying and leveraging beneficial ladders for growth, as well as how to navigate the chutes that might slow you down. You'll explore how to pump yourself up for new challenges, develop a diverse skill set, and build a personal portfolio that highlights your unique strengths. At the same time, you’ll learn how to recognize areas for improvement and strategically connect with opportunities for growth. Whether you're looking to climb or pivot, this session will give you the tools you need to create a fulfilling and sustainable professional journey. Learning Objectives: 1. Identify key strategies to enhance professional growth through self-promotion, relevant skill development, and making yourself useful in multiple areas. 2. Develop a personalized approach to recognizing and addressing skill gaps, connecting with new learning opportunities, and building a portfolio that showcases your expertise. 3. Understand how to manage setbacks and unexpected challenges in your professional journey by recognizing when to restructure, adapt, and stay motivated in the face of competition or job changes.

Today's workforce is more diverse than ever, with multiple generations working side-by­-side. From Baby Boomer to Gen Alpha, each generation displays a variety of strengths and weaknesses. While blurring the generational lines can be difficult, it is an essential part of fostering collaboration and innovation. Learning Objectives: 1. Learn the key characteristics of different generations in the workplace. 2. Recognize challenges that arise in a multigenerational team and develop strategies to understand a different perspective. 3. Apply strategies to foster collaboration and respect amongst diverse age groups to enhance employee and participant experiences.

The future of inclusion is now! Join us as we explore proven strategies to enhance the inclusive experience across various settings, from preschool and before-and-after school care to summer camps and recreation programs. Learn how to effectively market and communicate your inclusion services to engage your community and increase awareness. Discover innovative ways to collaborate with your Special Recreation Association (SRA) to strengthen and expand inclusion efforts. Gain insights on adapting your approach to meet the evolving needs of individuals in your community and reimagine how we can create more welcoming environments for all. Now is the time to embrace change and make your programs more inclusive for individuals of all abilities. Learning Objectives: 1. Discover ways to align the philosophies of Special Recreation Associations (SRAs) and Member Districts to support the growth of progressive and interactive inclusion services. 2. Learn how to confidently and effectively communicate and promote inclusion services for people with disabilities within your agency, ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 3. Identify current trends and emerging strategies in inclusive recreation that enhance accessibility and adaptability across various program settings.

Uncertainty is part of leadership, but it doesn't need to leave you questioning your abilities. This session will explore how to lead through uncertain situations with confidence, and overcome the fear that can can make us feel 'not good enough.' Attendees will gain insights into decision making under pressure, fostering adaptability, and strategies to reframe self-doubt and inspire trust as they lead through tough times with resilience. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand what leads to the feeling of being an 'imposter' 2. Learn leadership strategies that build trust and resilience 3. Explore and discuss real world examples of leading through uncertainty.

Unlock the power of collaboration with Triangle of Success! This session reveals how different departments in Parks and Recreation can work together to create stronger, more impactful community programs. Learn from real-world success stories, discover tools to foster seamless teamwork, and leave ready to build your own winning partnerships! Whether you’re planning a new initiative or strengthening existing efforts, this session gives you the keys to successful collaboration. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand how these departments work together, exploring their distinct roles and how they complement each other. 2. Learn from real examples of successful collaborations, showcasing the positive outcomes of joint efforts in community programs, environmental education, and park development. 3. Leave with tools and strategies to build your own successful collaborative initiatives, including communication techniques and planning resources.

Ready to harness the power of AI without needing a PhD in computer science? This session unveils the magic of large language models—like ChatGPT, Claude, Co-Pilot, and Gemini—and how they’re seamlessly integrated into everyday software solutions, revolutionizing everything from community outreach to resource management. We’ll take a high-level journey through the latest AI developments, then dive into practical, real-world examples that show how even a basic understanding can help you deliver next-level visitor experiences, streamline day-to-day operations, and future-proof your recreation programs. Learning Objectives: 1. AI Essentials: Develop a solid grasp of large language models and key AI concepts within a parks and recreation context. 2. Cutting-Edge Tools: Discover the latest AI-integrated features available in commonly used software to enhance efficiency and visitor engagement. 3. Practical Applications: Explore real-world strategies to incorporate AI solutions that simplify workflows, spark creativity, and transform your recreation services.

Balancing the demands of work, community engagement, and personal wellness can be challenging but crucial for long-term career satisfaction and overall life fulfillment. This session will dive into practical strategies for managing time effectively, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care. Whether you are new to the field or seeking to refine your approach, this session will empower you to take proactive steps towards thriving in both your professional and personal life. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the meaning of work-life balance and identify what keeps us out of balance. 2. Learn time management strategies for effectively managing multiple demands.\ 3. Understand the unique challenges and rewards of working in parks and recreation.

This presentation will stress the importance of De-Escalation by first identifying why this technique is important, discuss barriers to success, and provide some helpful hints for those working in the Park District Environment. Course will discuss the importance of not taking things too personally, the importance of remaining calm during verbal exchanges, and the importance of being respectful during a heated discussion. Lastly, the course will discuss the three steps for De-Escalation and how listening is the most important component. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand how De-Escalation evolved and how the police began using this important tool. 2. Understand how to avoid taking things too personally and how not to makes things worse when encountering a disgruntled member or participant. 3. Understand the three steps for De-Escalation and how best to use them.

In a rapidly evolving world, parks and recreation professionals must evolve their strategies, programs, and planning to ensure their services remain relevant, innovative, and impactful. This roundtable discussion will provide participants with insights into methods for identifying, analyzing, and responding to future trends in the industry. Participants will share experiences, explore industry tools and resources, and discuss strategies to integrate forward-thinking approaches into their planning and decision-making processes. Learning Objectives: 1. Recognize Emerging Trends: Participants will learn how to identify key trends that may shape the future of parks and recreation. 2. Assess the Impact of Trends: Supervisors will explore methods to evaluate and test emerging trends to better meet the needs of an evolving audience 3. Develop Proactive Strategies: Attendees will discuss practical approaches for integrating trend analysis into planning, decision-making, and professional development efforts.