Early Bird Workshops

Note: Our Early Bird Workshops offer something for everyone and is a great way to kick-off the convention.

TOPIC: Understanding Idaho School Bonds and Levies Post 2023 Legislative Changes

(L to R) Eric Heringer, Piper Sandler • Chelsea Porter, Hawley Troxell • Brandon Helgeson, Hawley Troxell • Michael Keith, Zions Bank

Topic Description – Following a historical tax relief bill aimed at reducing school tax levies, proposed bills to limit available tools, and increased scrutiny on communications related to school district levies the environment for bonds and levies continues to grow more challenging. The session will review recent legislation and how it will impact future school bond and levy elections. Additionally, the session will discuss challenges school districts may face implementing recent legislative changes.

TOPIC: New Board Member Bootcamp

(L to R) Dr. Phil Gore, ISBA Chief Learning Officer • Anne Ritter, ISBA Consultant

Topic Description: For first-year or recently elected board members, this workshop helps successfully launch you in your new role as a school board member. Along with fellow new board members, you’ll learn about the roles, responsibilities, and opportunities of your new role, and how to work effectively as a governance team.

TOPIC: Board Chair/Vice-Chair, and CEO Relationships

(L to R) Jason Knopp, ISBA Consultant • Bob Donaldson, ISBA Consultant

Topic Description: One of the most important partnerships for success is between the board chair and superintendent/chief administrator. The strength of this relationship is frequently the crucial factor in the success of a school district/charter school. But strong relationships don’t just happen – they take work. Learn strategies for building and maintaining relationships that models a strong and healthy culture, which all cascade down to the most important thing: student outcomes.

TOPIC: Everything a Board Member Needs to Know About School Finance

Jonathan Gillen, IASBO, and more…

Topic Description: In collaboration with IASBO, the Idaho Association of School Business Officials, this workshop will share best practices associated with budget development and preparation, the school board’s role in the budget process, and a list of what questions you should be asking your business manager. Presenters will walk through how some of your revenues are calculated as well as key dates throughout the year for reporting financial information. Lastly, we will share some overall best practices for working with your Business Manager at your District or Charter School.

TOPIC: Engaging Your Community for Student Success

Kathy Leslie, APR

Topic Description: One of a school board’s key responsibility is to engage and inform their community. The board serves as the bridge between the community and its schools, making it essential for board members to understand what’s going on in each place and how the two work together. This session covers how the board, along with the chief administrator and other key staff, can set the standard for how the governance team and district/charter communicate and engage with community members.