Being newly elected or appointed to the school board is both exciting and daunting. School directors have many responsibilities, and the first couple of years of board service can bring a steep learning curve. Board Boot Camp is a great place to start.

In-person

Board Boot Camp is offered at the WSSDA Annual Conference every November and regionally throughout the year.

You’ll hear from trainers with school board experience as they cover the basics of board service and answer questions. You’ll also connect with new board members from around the state while exploring scenarios you’re likely to encounter as a school director. The superintendent panel “What your superintendent would love to tell you… but probably won’t” is a favorite of many attendees. Superintendents and veteran school directors are encouraged to attend with their new board members for the best experience.


Virtual

Learn at your own pace with WSSDA’s virtual Board Boot Camp. Here are all the modules:

  • Part 1: Welcome to Virtual Board Boot Camp
  • Part 2: How WSSDA Supports School Directors
  • Part 3: The Basics of Governing a School District
  • Part 4: School Board Responsibilities
  • Part 5: The Board’s Responsibilities: Community Engagement
  • Part 6: Let’s Practice: What Would You Do?
  • Part 7: Introduction to Panel: Wisdom from Veteran School Directors & Superintendents
  • Part 8: Panel Discussion: What Your Board Chair & Superintendent Would Like to Tell You.. but Probably Won’t!
  • Part 9: The Board’s Responsibilities: Monitoring District Progress
  • Part 10: Let’s Practice Digging into District Data
  • Part 11: Building Blocks of Background Knowledge: Educational Equity
  • Part 12: Meetings – How Your Board Does its Work, Open Public Meetings & OPMA, Public Comment Guidelines, and Legal & Ethical Responsibilities
  • Part 13: Keep Learning with WSSDA Resources & Events