Pre-Conference Workshops

Pre-Conference Workshops November 17

9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Board Boot Camp

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.

Law Conference

Engage with experienced school law attorneys on the pressing legal issues facing public school districts in the 2022-23 school year. Learn about today’s legal landscape, including newly developing concerns and issues on the horizon. Speakers will help you identify pitfalls and minimize the risk of investigations and costly litigation in your district. The content of Law Conference changes according to the hot topics that emerge each year. This is a can’t-miss learning opportunity tailored specifically to K-12 leaders.

The Road to Belonging is Paved with Dignity

Many leaders care deeply about their community but don’t feel qualified to address inequity. Some fear they might even make things worse if they try. Others have experienced the escalation of conflict that commonly occurs when trying to change the status quo.

In this preconference workshop led by John Krownapple and Floyd Cobb, the authors of “Belonging Through a Culture of Dignity,” you will explore how educational leaders can avoid a predictable cycle of dysfunctional equity work by shifting their focus to the concept of belonging. How can leaders create environments where each person in the community belongs and thrives? By shaping a culture of dignity that honors each person’s value and worth. While this sounds simple, it’s extraordinarily hard, transformative work. Yet school boards and superintendents are uniquely positioned to forge a path forward and pave the way for serving the community and upholding democracy through successful public schools.