October 2017
Pensions punchWith school district budgets already staggering under repeated cuts, pension reform is dumping still more worries at the door for school boards. Those worries are not confined to finance, either, as implications extend to equity issues and personnel, both now and in the future.
KSBA’s governmental relations director is suggesting school boards get their calculators out when talking to lawmakers about the impact of pension reform on their districts.
School safety: new challengesIt’s been two decades since the Heath High School shooting and the field of school safety has been evolving. But experts agree that evolution now encompasses issues that are more difficult to address than physical changes to school buildings.
They are the first in their families on the path to a college degree, with a little help from the KSBA First Degree College Scholarship program. What these recipients have gone on to accomplish since their names were announced at KSBA annual conferences should make all school board members proud.
The Advocate caught up with four previous First Degree Scholarship winners. Read about the success they've had en route to earning college degrees.
New leader, familiar faceShe’s been serving as KSBA’s executive director on an interim basis and now has the permanent position. Kerri Schelling has served the association in multiple positions over the past nearly 19 years. But did you know that service to school boards is literally in her blood?
Opening upFunding issues and pension reform were front and center as KSBA Regional Meetings got off to a start in late August. Board members aired their concerns about these and other issues that will help the association with its advocacy efforts.
It’s not only school board teams that are invited to Regional Meetings, but area legislators also are included. A couple of them had some advice for school boards facing budget woes.
Student performers showcase talents at KSBA regional meetings
KSBA kicked off the 2017 Fall Regional Meetings in late August with First and Second region members gathering in Hickman County and Webster County, respectively. In addition to hearing about legislative issues and networking with colleagues, attendees are entertained by student performers prior to the meeting.