MI SoundBoard

The elections are over, and you have a few new faces at the board table. What now? Our guest on this episode of MISoundBoard is none other than MASB’s own Brad Banasik to answer common questions you may have.

In this episode, we talk with Steve Colón, CEO of Bottom Line, a national organization that helps students from under-resourced communities succeed in college. Steve explains Bottom Line’s mission and shares how they support students in reaching their goals.

Since 2005, the SET SEG Foundation has been making a positive impact on Michigan students through a variety of charitable initiatives and grants. As a proud partner of the Foundation, we’re excited to welcome their Executive Director, Molly Mellema, to this episode of MI SoundBoard. Molly shares about the foundation’s current programs and talks to Don about securing funding and resources to support students across the state. 

setseg.org/foundation

In addition to the shortage of teachers, districts are also experiencing a lack of applicants for business official positions. Bob Dwan, Executive Director of the Michigan School Business Officials, joins Don to discuss how current district employees can take proactive steps in succession planning.

AI has become a central topic in conversations about not just public education but all aspects of our lives, and it’s a discussion that’s here to stay. On today’s episode, we’re joined by Aaron Baughman, Northville Public Schools' Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, who has been integrating new AI tools into the district’s classrooms. Tune in to explore the exciting possibilities—and important precautions—surrounding this transformative technology.

With school board elections just around the corner, what should you be paying attention to? MASB’s Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. returns for this episode of MI SoundBoard to answer some of the most pressing questions he's been fielding and offer crucial insights to navigate this important period.

In this episode of MI SoundBoard, we sit down with Jon Wilcox, Principal of Petoskey Middle School and the 2024 Michigan Principal of the Year. Discover the journey and impactful experiences that led to his recognition. Tune in to hear firsthand why Jon is celebrated as a leader in education.

In this episode, Don sits down with James Johnson, the newly appointed president of the MASB Board of Directors and a key figure from Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools. A dedicated advocate for public education and lifelong learning, James shares his insights and experiences from his long-standing commitment to education in his community.

The 2024/2025 School Aid Budget has been signed into effect, and it’s creating a lot of questions. Join Director of Government Relations, Jennifer Smith, as she dissects the details and explores the background leading to this point.

In this episode, meet Kelley Cusmano, the 2024-25 Michigan Teacher of the Year and Student Leadership Teacher at Rochester High School. Discover the passions that drive her classroom and learn why her community nominated her for this prestigious award.