The Georgia Classroom - Conversations with GSBA

In this episode of GSBA Risk Pods, David Colvard sits down with Andre Weaver, Assistant Superintendent for Operations for Cartersville City Schools, to discuss how tabletop exercises help districts prepare for school-specific emergencies. Andre shares Cartersville’s approach to creating realistic, grade-level scenarios, engaging school leaders and first responders, and using AI to develop customized training exercises. The conversation offers practical strategies for strengthening emergency preparedness, collaboration, and school safety across every campus.

Emergency action plans for athletic events, graduation, and special events, featuring Dr. Evan Horton, Superintendent and Mrs. Danielle Rosa, Director of Safety, Coweta County Schools.

School board service is more complex than ever—and ongoing training is key to keeping up. In this episode of The Georgia Classroom podcast, GSBA President John Jackson and GSSA President Dr. Noris Price—both leaders from Baldwin County Schools—discuss how continuous professional development strengthens governance, builds trust, and empowers boards to lead with clarity and purpose.

In this episode of The Georgia Classroom – Conversations with GSBA, Executive Director Valarie Wilson leads a timely discussion on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. AI is transforming how schools approach instruction, operations, and student support—but what does that mean for school boards, educators, and students?

Joining the conversation are:

• Dr. Aaron Turpin, Assistant Superintendent of Technology, Hall County Schools
• Adam Garry, President of Strategic Edu Consulting
• Cornelius Ball, GSBA Vice President and Turner County Board Member

Together, they explore AI's potential in the classroom, policy and governance considerations, cybersecurity risks, and preparing students for an AI-driven workforce. Plus, hear about GSBA’s upcoming AI Summit on May 1, 2025, where education leaders will dive deeper into these critical topics.

Transportation Department Roles in a Crisis Event, featuring Jason Ayers, Transportation Director , Barrow County School District.

Mickey Key retires as a Member Advocate for Southwest Ga and Adam Hathaway will be taking his place.  This podcast covers the transition as well as a personal look at Mickey and the future with Adam.

SchoolDog is a resource provided to our members as a tool for discovering and documenting a wide range of safety issues in schools.

In this inaugural episode of 'The Georgia Classroom - Conversations with GSBA,' we dive into the critical intersection of student mental health and school safety. Join Valarie Wilson and a diverse panel, including a parent, student, mental health expert, and former superintendent, as they discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Georgia's public schools. From the impact of trauma and stressors on students to the importance of building strong, supportive relationships, this episode offers valuable insights into creating safer, more nurturing school environments.

Risk Pod host David Collard speaks to SchoolDog school security technology founder Buddy Costley about how the system protects your school.

Dave Shanks,  GEMA-Homeland Security Area 1 Coordinator;  Provides detailed information on Behavioral Threat Assessment and how it can work to prevent violent acts in school settings.