This bonus track is an outtake from our upcoming episode Financial Challenges Ahead: What you need to know and ask during budget development scheduled to drop February 23rd. 

The commentary ties into last month’s podcast regarding school board advocacy and the need for members to become actively involved. Especially now, during these stressful times when school districts are facing so much uncertainty and working to address the unique needs of their students. 

Listen to Judith Kehoe as she shares her thoughts and ideas on how school boards can advocate for their district.

2021 is now upon us and nine months after the initial CARES Act was signed into law, a second relief package recently passed leaving many to argue it’s not enough. 

The pandemic and resulting financial crisis has taken its toll on public education and has left many school districts struggling to meet the new demands and needs for their students. 

Join host Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development and Brian Fessler, Director of Governmental Relations, as they discuss why school board members have a responsibility to stand up for their students and advocate for the support and resources needed to ensure the success of the educational system.

While there has been no shortage of challenges this year, school districts and boards of education have surmounted difficult odds.

The good news is we’ve prevailed, not perfectly, not always gracefully, but we’ve seen more success stories than we’ve seen failures. 

In this episode of The President’s Gavel we're speaking with Jay Worona, Deputy Executive Director and General Counsel, NYSSBA, and reflecting on the resiliency and success that has occurred across the State in the midst of an unpredictable pandemic.

With so much attention focused on this year’s election, it would not be surprising to wonder how politics might impact your school board.

In this episode, our Leadership Development team discusses why it is critical to keep politically charged issues out of the boardroom and how to ensure that your board maintains unity when so many in our country and communities are divided.

NYSSBA’s Convention is going virtual and we are excited for our members to be a part of this new experience!

Host Darci D’Ercole is joined by Barry Entwistle, Director of Member Relations, for a inside look at how this year's virtual Convention will inspire you to take your professional development to the next level.

From keynote speakers, to multiple educational sessions, to a Convention finale like no other (hint hint: we're bringing Broadway right into your living rooms), this is an event you won't want to miss.

PLUS, the first 1800 registrants receive a NYSSBA swag bag delivered to their home! 

The reopening of schools has been accompanied by anxiety, frustration, and concerns regarding the health, safety, and academic progression of students. When stakes are high and issues are emotionally charged it’s imperative that board members communicate effectively to create clarity, provide positive reassurance, and to preserve trust among the community.

Join Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development for the New York State School Boards Association, as she speaks with : Scott Levy, current board member and the immediate past president of Byram Hills Central School District and the Executive Director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence in the Yale Child Study Center.

When students return to school this fall, they will be entering an educational environment that is very different than the one they left in March. Undoubtedly, some of these changes will prove unpopular with some parents and community members. Effectively communicating these changes to all stakeholders, and remaining calm under pressure, are the keys to ensuring that new requirements and expectations are understood and followed.

Join us as we discuss the board’s role in communicating the district’s re-opening plans and how collaboration with the superintendent is the key to ensuring that all stakeholders are well-informed.

Host
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manager

Guests
Mark Kokanovich – Board President: Brighton Central School District
Dr. Kevin McGowan – Superintendent: Brighton Central School District

When members of the board are not working cohesively, stress and conflict can compromise their ability to govern effectively. Join us as we discuss the importance of a unified board and offer strategies for maintaining a collaborative culture.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guests
Jamie McPherson, Deputy of Leadership Development, NYSSBA
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

All school board members want what is best for their students and communities. However, there are times when passion can lead a board member to take action that reaches beyond their authority.

Join us as we discuss real world examples of how board members’ best intentions have lead to overstepping their role, and the implications of their actions.

As the COVID-19 pandemic shuts down school buildings across the state, NYSSBA’s Leadership Development professionals speak with Anne Savage, BOE president for the Albany City Schools, to address many of the questions and concerns impacting your governance team. 

Listen as the team reviews the role of the board during a crisis and shares how some boards are handling the new challenges caused by the pandemic.