A 5-part series virtual training hosted by the Small School Districts’ Association (SSDA) with a sixth and final in-person session at the annual SSDA state conference on April 6th, for elected and appointed members of a school district’s Governing Board.
The Program
Please join us for a five-part webinar series specifically designed for elected and appointed members of the governing boards of small and rural school districts. These engaging and informative one-hour fifteen-minute workshops are hosted by a diverse panel of experts from the Small School Districts Association (SSDA). This workshop aims to empower both new and veteran board members with the essential skills and knowledge needed to effectively govern and advocate for their communities.
What You’ll Learn:
Session 1: December 17, 2024 @ 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Overview of the California School Board Landscape: Former Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell will kick off the five-part series with an engaging and informative overview of the political landscape in California.
Former State Superintendent Jack O’Connell
Understanding Your Role: Dive into the responsibilities and expectations of a school board member in small and rural districts. Learn how to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities that come with serving in a smaller community.
Governing Board President Michael Marino
Session 2: January 16, 2024 @ 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Three Pillars of Success—Governance Mindset, Governance Culture, and Governance Infrastructure: Davis W. Campbell, renowned author of Governance Core and Governance Core 2.0, will provide useful tools and techniques to improve local governance culture, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between board members, district leaders, and school staff to support the success and wellbeing of every student. 
Davis W. Campbell
Session 3: February 6, 2024 @ 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Financial Stewardship: Develop a deeper understanding of school finance, budgeting, and funding streams specific to small and rural districts. Learn how to make informed financial decisions that align with your district’s priorities and goals.
Barrett Snider, Partner, Capitol Advisors
Yuri Calderon, Executive Director, Small School Districts’ Association
Session 4: February 27, 2024 @ 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
The Secrets of Impactful Leadership: Keith Wolaridge, author of Decision from the Dais, explores secrets of impactful leadership, inviting you to explore the pillars of good intentions, purpose-driven decisions, ego transcendence, and a relentless pursuit of continuous learning. Wolaridge will invite you to Elevate your understanding of governance and embark on a journey toward informed, principled decision-making.
Keith Wolaridge, Author & Veteran Board Member
Session 5: March 20, 2024 @ 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Navigating Legal and Ethical Challenges: Receive guidance on navigating legal and ethical issues, including compliance with state and federal laws, conflict of interest, and the Brown Act. Understand how to make decisions that are not only legally sound but also ethically responsible.
Namita S. Brown, Partner, Fagen, Friedman & Folfrost, LLP
Whether you’re a new board member looking to get up to speed or a veteran seeking to refine your skills, this workshop will provide practical tools and insights to help you lead with confidence and make a positive impact on your students and community. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow board members, share experiences, and learn from the experts who best understand the unique dynamics of small and rural school districts.
The Schedule
Session 1: December 17, 2024
Session 2: January 16, 2025
Session 3: February 6, 2025
Session 4: February 27, 2025
Session 5: March 20, 2025
Session 6: April 6, 2025 (In person)
All sessions will start promptly at 5:30 PM and conclude at 6:45 PM. The sessions are designed to be one hour and fifteen minutes in duration, for a total of 6.25 hours of study.