Public Governance & Policy

The authority the school board has in its policymaking and resource allocation roles can support, or may unintentionally hinder, students’ ability to be successful. In this session participants will gain an understanding of the centrality of student voice to discussions and policy development.

Examples will be provided on how to facilitate authentic engagement between the board/district and its students to impact the issues that currently exist in our schools and districts. It will empower boards to take the lead in ensuring that learning opportunities are available to all.

Told through student voice from the presenter’s Master’s Degree research project, this session emphasizes the authority and ability the school board has in its policy-making and resource allocation roles, and identifies how policies may unintentionally hinder a student’s ability to be successful.

It helps Boards understand that they can significantly impact student achievement by using that authority in an informed, thoughtful manner, in partnership with their communities and the district’s leadership team. It empowers Boards to take the lead in ensuring all students have an opportunity to learn.

A community’s ability to influence its leaders’ decisions is not just a nice idea; it is the very foundation of our society. As leaders of public agencies, we have the responsibility to facilitate this influence, making it easy for our constituents to get involved, influence their local leaders, and know they have made a difference. Doing this is not only beneficial for our organizations, but it also strengthens our communities.

In this group training, we will explore the circle of influence and discuss specific strategies to close the loop for our constituents. We will also reflect on the moral purpose of our work and identify one actionable step you can take to elevate your effort when you return to your desk. Whether you are in your first year or your thirtieth, you will leave this session renewed in your professional purpose and ready to engage your community in tackling the big issues facing your organization!

School board members are often in the hot seat these days, and not just during formal meetings. This session will cover communication skills and strategies specifically designed to help you grow your capacity and confidence as a school director.

We will explore personal communication and leadership skills, as well as organizational and process-related strategies that set you and your board up for positive, productive meetings. In particular, we will focus on strategies to help you navigate conflict with dignity, efficiency, and civility.

Whether you are new to board service or a seasoned veteran, you will come away with practical tips you can use immediately. J.Marie will also share a strong philosophical approach to guide you when you're caught by unexpected situations.