Missouri School Boards Association emphasizes new training for board members

The Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) held a significant meeting focused on the training and development of school board members, emphasizing the importance of ongoing education and professional growth. Newly elected board members were welcomed, while seasoned members were encouraged to take advantage of various training opportunities available through the MSBA's leadership development team.

Catherine Whitaker, the associate executive director of MSBA's leadership development, highlighted that new board member training is not only a legal requirement—mandated by state statute—but also a vital opportunity for networking and building connections among peers. The training consists of 18 and a half hours, which Whitaker described as essential for effective governance.

A key feature of the upcoming MSBA summer summit will be a workshop tailored for school board presidents. This session will cover parliamentary procedures and strategies for onboarding new members, addressing the challenges faced by those in leadership roles. Whitaker pointed out that many misconceptions exist regarding the timing of refresher training, clarifying that it resets with each election cycle in April. Therefore, board members are encouraged to complete their training promptly to avoid delays until the next election.

As summer approaches, Whitaker urged school boards to prioritize professional development, suggesting that summer retreats can be particularly beneficial for newly appointed superintendents and board members. These retreats can help establish expectations and strengthen team dynamics before the school year begins.

The MSBA summer summit, scheduled for June at the Hilton Branson Convention Center, will feature discussions on emerging trends in education. Notably, Jean Becker, former chief of staff to President George H.W. Bush, will be a keynote speaker, sharing insights from her experiences and recent publications.

Additionally, the meeting announced a delegate assembly during the summit, where state officers for the upcoming year will be elected. Board members are encouraged to ensure their representation at this important event.

In a related highlight, the MSBA's Facebook page showcased a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new agricultural center in Neosho, illustrating the ongoing advancements within Missouri's educational landscape. The MSBA continues to encourage engagement with their social media platforms to stay informed about developments in schools across the state.