The status quo wasn't working. You saw the need for a different vision in your school system. You knew that leadership change was necessary. You accepted the challenge to run for school board--and you won!

Now what?

Governing brings a new set of challenges and opportunities. The learning curve is steep, but you don't have to navigate this new territory alone.

The Heritage Foundation is pleased to offer a virtual, six-session training series for new school board members like you--eager to empower families and put kids' needs first.
  • Get the tools, knowledge, and resources you need to succeed in your new role.
  • Get equipped with valuable tips and insights from education policy experts and experienced school board members who have succeeded at driving change at the local level.
  • Get connected to a larger community of school board members from across the country who face similar challenges.

Register for the Next Offering of This Program

Register for the Next Offering of This Program

Speakers


Program Schedule
This series will be delivered virtually one evening a week
April 20 - May 25, from 7:00 p.m. – 8:15 p.m. EDT

Session #1: Understanding Your Purpose, Mission, and Operating Environment
Wednesday, April 20
  • Know what a school board must do and who you serve
  • Master school boards' governing rules and laws
  • Understand all of the people involved in the process--both officially and unofficially--and the roles they play

Session #2: School Board Finance
Wednesday, April 27
  • Learn how to read your budget, where the resources for school budgets come from, and who decides how those funds are spent
  • Know your state's budgeting formula for spending and taxes
  • Learn the questions you should ask to get the information you need to make informed decisions

Session #3: Hot Topics, Part I - Critical Race Theory and Gender Ideology
Wednesday, May 4
  • Get briefed on the ideological roots of critical race and gender theory
  • Explore the manifestation of these ideas in K-12 classrooms
  • Learn actions that school boards can take to protect teachers and students from racial discrimination, increase curriculum transparency, and protect the health and safety of their students

Session #4: Hot Topics, Part II - Parental Rights and Sex Education
Thursday, May 12
  • Get briefed on the history of parental rights in schools and get the latest updates on relevant court battles
  • Learn how to increase curriculum transparency and look at examples of what's currently being taught in sex education
  • Explore policies that empower parents to make decisions about their children's education

Session #5: Proactively Shape the Agenda and Implement Change
Thursday, May 19
  • Use your power to get meaningful information from your district
  • Know the model of governance that your board is using and the authority it provides you
  • Learn techniques for increasing accountability and transparency in school board proceedings

Session #6: Scenario Planning - What Should I Do If...?
Wednesday, May 25
  • Learn how to prepare for scenarios that board members often face such as:
  • How do I navigate my school board when I hold the minority view?
  • How should I handle media inquiries?
  • What should I do if I'm personally attacked or censured? What rights do I have?



Register for the Next Offering of This Program

Any Questions? Email Becky Turco at [email protected]

Terms and Conditions of Attendance