Outgoing KSBA board of directors reflect on service

Kentucky School Advocate
February 2020

While most of our members take advantage of the resources provided to them by the Kentucky School Boards Association, some aspire to be a part of its leadership. KSBA’s 27-member board of directors (12 regional chairs, 12 at-large members and three officers) is made up entirely of members who are shouldered with setting the association’s direction as the leading advocate for the Commonwealth’s 862 school board members. We are forever grateful for the commitment and vision of these men and women.

Several regional chairs completed their terms as members of KSBA’s board of directors this past December, while some at-large members will complete their terms at the 2020 Annual Conference later this month. KSBA asked our outgoing members to reflect on their service and to tell us why they answered the call to serve. Here is what some of them had to say.

Steve Becker, Danville Ind.
“I wanted to be part of the association because it would expand my view of education beyond Danville. I learned much about many other districts and could talk face to face about our districts’ positives and common challenges. To experience a statewide view of educational issues was most important and of course the new friendships that developed along the way. Being able to pick up the phone and get much needed advice on issues or concerns that I’ve not experienced before. The KSBA organization presented me the opportunity to serve the 650,000 students across the state of Kentucky.”

William Owens, Lee County
“I wanted to know more about KSBA and how the organization could help our district. Being from a small district I thought this would be a way for me to better serve our students and the district. It was a privilege for me to serve and I hope that my district can see how this opportunity has been good for them.”

Jason Reeves, Barbourville Ind.
“I chose to serve on the KSBA Board of Directors because of the opportunity to learn from and share with other school board members as we work toward promoting P-12 student achievement from our roles as school board members. The experience also provided much insight into the common challenges and opportunities school board members and the school districts face regardless of location, independent/county school or achievement level. Additionally, my time on the board allowed me to see how extremely active KSBA is in policy, advocacy, board trainings and professional development as they relate to the advancement of public schools.”

Martie Templeton, Hickman County
“Basically, I have enjoyed serving my district on our local board and wanted to learn more about KSBA's role in helping local school boards and its members and students.”