NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast

Why vote for your board president: The attributes of effective leadership

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 13:28:40 +0000

Have you ever sat in a board meeting where things just… unraveled?

The agenda starts strong but quickly goes off track. Conversations drift. Tensions rise. Voices overlap. And by the end of the meeting, you’re left wondering what was accomplished.

Now, here’s the important question: Was that a board problem or a leadership problem?

In many cases, it comes down to one critical role: the board president.

Today, we’re going to talk about what school boards should be thinking about when electing their board president. Because this decision is about far more than filling a seat. It’s about setting the tone, direction and effectiveness of your entire governance team.

Host:
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Resources (NYSSBA On Board Articles)

Schedule your Custom Board Retreat today! Contact Ellen Kramek at 518-783-3753 or via email at ellen.kramek@nyssba.org.

Have a question about today’s topic? NYSSBA Leadership Development Trainers are here to help! Send you your questions to ld@nyssba.org.

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What I Wish I Knew About School Board Service

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 13:08:23 +0000

In this episode of the President's Gavel, we’re talking about something almost every board member thinks at some point: “I wish I had known that when I first started.” We’ll share a few of those lessons—so you can lead with more confidence and maybe help the next new member avoid a few surprises along the way.

We’ll talk about early challenges, a few unexpected realities and the kinds of insights that really only come with time—offering guidance to help you and the next generation of board members lead with more confidence and clarity.

Host
Ann Laszewski, Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Resources

Schedule your Custom Board Retreat today! Contact Ellen Kramek at 518-783-3753 or via email at ellen.kramek@nyssba.org.

Have a question about today’s topic? NYSSBA Leadership Development Trainers are here to help! Send you your questions to ld@nyssba.org.

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Navigating the Gray Area of Governance

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 19:16:17 +0000

The line between meaningful oversight and overstepping into operations isn’t always clear—and it’s in that gray area where even well-intentioned board members can get off track. School board members step into their roles wanting to help, but good intentions don’t always translate into good governance.

In this episode, we explore that gray area through real-world scenarios, highlighting common pitfalls that can lead members astray and practical strategies to stay grounded in their role, work effectively with their superintendent and build positive relationships.

Host
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guests
Darci D’Ercole, Chief Governance and Leadership Development Officer, NYSSBA
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Resources
Schedule your Custom Board Retreat today! Contact Ellen Kramek at 518-7833753 or via email at ellen.kramek@nyssba.org.

Have a question about today’s topic? NYSSBA Leadership Development Trainers are here to help!

Send you your questions to ld@nyssba.org. Stock media provided by www.pond5.com

A Seat at the Table: The Role of the Ex Officio Student Board Member

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:06:44 +0000

What does it look like when a student has a real seat at the table? In this episode, we hear how one ex officio student board member turned curiosity about his district into meaningful advocacy by shaping decisions, strengthening connections and proving that the student voice can truly make an impact.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Chief Governance and Leadership Development Officer, NYSSBA

Guest
Matthew (Matt) Wohlstadter, Ex Officio Student Member and Peer Leader at Chappaqua Central School District

Resources
Schedule your Custom Board Retreat today! Contact Ellen Kramek at 518-7833753 or via email at ellen.kramek@nyssba.org.

Have a question about today’s topic? NYSSBA Leadership Development Trainers are here to help! Send you your questions to ld@nyssba.org.

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Tips for a Successful Budget Vote

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 11:54:07 -0100

Across the state, boards of education are working hard to help ensure their budgets are fiscally responsible to taxpayers while staying firmly rooted in their district’s priorities. It’s within this balancing act that boards are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the budget reflects the community’s core values and aligns its limited resources to optimizing student success and long-term stability.

In this episode, we dive into what school boards need to know about state aid categories, identify some of the biggest challenges we’re facing and provide practical strategies you can bring back to your board table to help ensure a successful budget vote.

Host
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Senior Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Brian Freeman, Assistant Superintendent for Business, Webster CSD

Resources
• Budgeting is more than an annual process
• How to have a successful budget season
• The board's role in budget development

NYSSBA’s Advocacy Overview

Questions about advocacy? Contact NYSSBA staff members: Brian Fessler, Chief Advocacy Officer or Caroline Bobick, Deputy Director of Governmental and External Relations

Have a question about today’s topic? NYSSBA Leadership Development Trainers are here to help! Send you your questions to ld@nyssba.org.

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Federal Advocacy: Widespread change and many unknowns

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:20:07 -0100

This month on the President’s Gavel, we’re diving into topics that are sure to pique the interest of our listeners: Updates on the U.S. Department of Education Federal funding The potential for another government shutdown How education funding is at the center of many debates Tune in now to stay ahead of the curve.

Host
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Caroline Bobick, Deputy Director of Governmental and External Relations, NYSSBA

Resources

For more information contact Caroline Bobick, Deputy Director of Governmental and External Relations at caroline.bobick@nyssba.org.

February 1-3, 2026
NSBA National Advocacy Institute: We invite you to join us in Washington, DC for the National School Boards Association’s (NSBA) Annual Advocacy Institute. The event is focused on advocacy skills and federal priorities along with a Hill Day. Several members of the Governmental Relations Department will be on hand attending sessions, and we will be scheduling meetings with members of the New York Delegation.

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The Big Board Questions: What’s on Every School Board Member’s Mind?

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 14:15:45 -0100

In your role as a school board member, have you ever wondered - are we even asking the right questions? You are not alone! On today’s episode of the President’s Gavel, Leadership Development trainers Jamie McPherson and Ann Lazewski will answer some common but very important questions school board members often ask, like: Are we aligned with our district’s mission and vision? How can we foster strong, transparent, community relationships that allow room for all voices to be heard while still providing clear information and addressing misinformation? How do we ensure all students are being served? It’s not just about access, it’s about impact. Stay with us as we answer these questions and more!

Host
Ann Laszewski, Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Resources

Have a question about a topic not covered on today’s show? Send your questions to NYSSBA’s Leadership Development Team at ld@nyssba.org.

Ready to dig deeper on topic covered on today’s show? Schedule a Custom Board Retreat today! Contact Ellen Kramek at 518-7833753 or via email at ellen.kramek@nyssba.org.

For questions contact Zac Adams, NYSSBA’s Business Development and Member Relations Manager at 518.783.3726 or via email at zac.adams@nyssba.org

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Transforming Vision into Reality – Building a Road Map to Success

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 12:51:27 -0100

In today’s conversation, we’ll explore how strategic planning can serve as a catalyst for growth and improvement. We’ll look at how it engages diverse stakeholders, fosters transparency and helps school boards make more informed, aligned decisions. We’ll also discuss how setting clear priorities and long-term goals can strengthen governance and drive impactful, system-wide change. Whether your district is just beginning the planning process or looking to revisit and refresh its goals, this episode offers valuable insights on how to turn vision into reality—and build a strong foundation for a successful future.

Host
Ann Laszewski, Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guests
Dr. Lance Lohman, Superintendent, Longwood Central School District
Victoria Molloy, Board President, Longwood Central School District

Resources
Need help with your district’s strategic plan? Schedule your Custom Board Retreat today! For more information contact ellen.kramek@nyssba.org.

Have a question or a topic idea? We want to hear from you! Email us at ld@nyssba.org. Stock media provided by www.pond5.com

Empowering Critical Thinking Through Media Literacy

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:23:30 +0000

This month on The President’s Gavel, we’re revisiting a popular session from this year's Leadership in Education Event: “Critical Thinking Through Media Literacy.” In this episode, you'll learn about media literacy and why understanding it is crucial for anyone involved in educating students today.

Our guests will share why it is more important than ever to help children think critically about what they see and hear via the media they consume. We'll also discuss how we can empower students to thrive in today's media landscape.

Host
Ann Laszewski, Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guests
Dr. Michael J. Doughty, Assistant Superintendent, Northeastern Regional Information Center, Capital Region BOCES
Katherine Hammill, Director, Mid-Hudson Regional Information Center, Ulster BOCES

Resources
Have a question or a topic idea? We want to hear from you! Email us at ld@nyssba.org.

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Setting the Agenda (re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 16:29:25 +0000

Agendas are the roadmap for board meeting. They help the board president keep discussions focused and on track, while clearly outlining the topics to be addressed and the actions to be taken. In this episode of the President’s Gavel Jamie, Mark and Darci answer commonly asked questions and discuss best practices for setting the agenda.

Host
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guests
Darci D’Ercole, Chief Governance and Leadership Development Officer, NYSSBA
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Resources

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Governance at the Local Level: The Untapped Power of School Boards

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 17:15:45 +0000

School boards may seem local and low-profile, but they’re at the heart of today’s biggest battles over education, governance and democracy. In this episode, we discuss why school boards matter more than ever—and how they can help rebuild trust, strengthen schools and model civil discourse in a divided time.

Host
Darci D’Ercole Chief Governance and Leadership Development Officer, NYSSBA

Guest
Scott Levy Adjunct Professor, Harvard Graduate School of Education Author, Why School Boards Matter: Reclaiming the Heart of Education and Democracy Byram Hills Central School District Board of Education

Resources
Have a question or a topic idea? We want to hear from you! Email us at ld@nyssba.org.

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What to Consider: Electing Your School Board President

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:16:03 +0000

With reorganization meetings just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about electing your board president. In this episode of President’s Gavel, Mark highlights what leadership skills matter most at the board table and shares five characteristics of a successful president.

Host
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager

Resources
• Superintendent and Board Self-Evaluation Tools
• SuperEval

To learn more about NYSSBA’s Board Officers’ Forum, contact mark.snyder@nyssba.org. To learn more about SuperEval contact Bob Hartz at 1-844-312-EVAL (3825).

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Onboarding to Build Successful School Boards (re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Wed, 21 May 2025 13:12:41 +0000

School board elections just happened. Is your board prepared to onboard new members? An effective onboarding process benefits new members by helping them acclimate quickly while avoiding common pitfalls that can strain relations. Through a proactive plan, boards can support their new members while building trust, collaboration and unity on the governance team. This enables them to focus better on advancing positive student outcomes without unnecessary distractions.

Host
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guest
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Resources

Need help developing your board operations handbook? Request a Custom Board Retreat here.

For more information about NYSSBA’s Custom Board Retreats contact ellen.kramek@nyssba.org.

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The New Ex Officio Student Board Member

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 12:00:53 +0000

In this episode, we discuss the ex officio student board member. While about one-third of New York school boards already include student representatives, new legislation mandates that all public-school districts and BOCES include a student member on their school board. Meeting this goal takes more than just a seat at the table – it requires good faith, mutual respect and a genuine partnership. That’s what we’re here to explore in this episode: how to fully embrace the ex officio student board member role in ways that empower students, strengthen board decisions and enrich the experience for everyone through deeper civic engagement and inclusive leadership.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Chief Governance and Leadership Development Officer, NYSSBA

Guests
David Lilleck, Superintendent, Orchard Park Central School District
Luke Lippitt, Ex Officio Student Board Member, Orchard Park Central School District and Northeast Vice President of the National Student Board Member Association
Zachary Patterson, Chair of the Board of Advisors, National Student Board Member Association

Resources

Have a question or a topic idea? We want to hear from you! Email us at ld@nyssba.org.

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Disconnecting to Reconnect: Smartphone-Free Schools

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 23:00:00 -0100

A growing body of research suggests that smartphones, social media and messaging apps are fueling the adolescent mental health crisis. In response, New York introduced legislation prohibiting the use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day. Bethlehem Central School District has already implemented a smartphone-free policy. In this episode, we’ll hear their story and learn how board members can develop and adopt a successful policy in their district.

Host
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guests
Jody Monroe, Superintendent, Bethlehem Central School District
Holly M. Dellenbaugh, Board President Bethlehem Central School District

Resources
Resources for this episode were provided by the Bethlehem Central School District.

Bethlehem CSD BOE Presentations:
• Yondr, 3/15/23
• Yondr Update, 5/3/23
• Yondr Student Assemblies

• 2017-cognitive-load-theory-practice-guide
• 2018_Book_TechnologyAndAdolescentMentalHealth
• Phones at School Are a Disaster - The Atlantic
• Schools are banning cellphones as students are more distracted than ever - The Washington Post

Have a question or a topic idea? We want to hear from you! Email us at ld@nyssba.org.

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Advocacy: Opportunities to Move Forward and Make Progress

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 23:00:00 -0100

One primary responsibility of school boards is to advocate for all students and their districts. You may be wondering, what does advocacy look like for school boards? What should I be doing? Or how can I get more involved in advocacy efforts? Today we address these questions and provide an overview of the board’s role and responsibilities in advocacy, and we’ll learn how you can help to inform and influence NYSSBA’s advocacy platform.

Host
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Caroline Bobick, Deputy Director of Governmental and External Relations, NYSSBA

Resources

Contact NYSSBA’s Governance Relations Staff: 518.783.0200

Have a question or a topic idea? We want to hear from you! Email us at ld@nyssba.org.

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Establishing Effective Board/Superintendent Communication: Difficult Conversations? You’ve Got This!

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 23:00:00 -0100

On this episode of the President's Gavel Podcast, it's all about communication. We'll discuss navigating difficult conversations and maintaining a strong relationship with the Margaretville Central School's board president and superintendent. Join your NYSSBA hosts as they lead Board President Doris Warner and Superintendent Michelle Osterhoudt through a conversation about how they effectively work together through the easy and not-so-easy times.

Hosts
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guests
Michelle Osterhoudt, Superintendent, Margaretville Central School District
Doris Warner, Board President, Margaretville Central School District

Resources (NYSSBA On Board Articles)

Schedule your Custom Board Retreat today!

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Student Mental Health and District-Wide Systems of Support: What Works?

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 23:00:00 -0100

Improvement in student mental health depends on prevention and the use of universal screening. During this episode, we discuss the effective use of the Multi-tiered system of support, which many of us know about, as well as the importance of leadership on making real improvements, what interventions are necessary at the district level to be successful, and how screening, monitoring and evaluation of student data becomes critical in addressing mental health challenges in our schools and in supporting improved student outcomes.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guests
Dr. James McDougal, Director of the School Psychology Program, State University of New York at Oswego
Dr. Donna J. DeSiato, Superintendent, East Syracuse-Minoa CSD
Eric Knuth, Superintendent, Skaneateles CSD

Resources
Have a question or a topic idea? We want to hear from you! Email us at ld@nyssba.org.

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Data and the Role of the Board

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 11:06:09 -0100

In this episode, we’re diving into the role of data in school governance. Whether you’re a new or seasoned board member, asking the right questions when examining data is crucial. It deepens your understanding and supports evidence-based decision-making, ultimately improving outcomes for all students. Discover the essential questions to consider and more in this insightful discussion!

Host
Ann Laszewski, Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Lorianne DeForest, Supervisor of Educational Data Services, OCM BOCES Central New York Regional Information Center

Resources

Have a question or a topic idea? We want to hear from you! Email us at ld@nyssba.org.

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District Goal Setting for Student Success (Re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 14:38:31 +0000

What is the role of the board in setting visionary goals that will impact all aspects of the educational program? In this episode, Mark and Jamie answer this question and more.

Host
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Resources

Custom Board Retreat brochure

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What you need to know about committee charters

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 12:40:18 +0000

This month our topic is committee charters. What are they? What are their benefits? And how do school boards go about creating them?

Host
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Resources

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Beyond the Meeting: The Job of the Board President

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 19:29:50 +0000

Many of our listeners understand that as an individual board member, board presidents do not have any more additional rights or authority than any other board member, but they do have many more responsibilities. Board presidents have numerous responsibilities that are not limited to what is seen at board meetings. Learn more about why the board president must perform before, during and after the meeting to keep the board informed and functioning at an optimal level.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guest
Anjeanette Emeka, Board of Education President, Saratoga Springs City Schools Vice President, Adirondack Area School Board Association and NYSSBA Consultant

Resources

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Social media too potent for students to resist!

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 19:10:47 +0000

Smart phones have changed the way we communicate and receive information, but having access to this technology has created challenges and distractions for students. The allure of social media notifications, text messages and endless digital entertainment options often proves too potent for students to resist, leading to diminished focus, disrupted learning environments and a decline in academic performance. The effects of cell phone distractions in the classroom and at large impact students’ social and emotional well-being, mental health and ability to stay engaged in learning.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guests
Clifford R. Kasson, Superintendent, Vestal Central School District
Dr. Andrew M. Blaine, Director of Instruction, Vestal Central School District

Resources

Common Sense Media Article, 9/26/23

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Onboarding to Build Successful School Boards

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 15:01:51 +0000

School board elections are right around the corner. Is your board prepared? An effective onboarding process benefits new members by helping them acclimate quickly while avoiding common pitfalls that can strain relations. Through a proactive plan, boards can support their new members while building trust, collaboration and unity on the governance team. This enables them to focus better on advancing positive student outcomes without unnecessary distractions.

Host
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guest
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Resources

Need help developing your board operations handbook? Schedule a Custom Board Retreat today!

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Tips and Suggestions for Successful Budget Development

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 12:28:37 -0100

As spring approaches, school boards are inundated with budget meetings, budget updates and budgetary data. In this episode, our goal is to provide the knowledge and tools necessary to ensure boards are well-equipped to fulfill their fiduciary duties and present a responsible and impactful budget to their communities.

Host
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Brian Freeman, Assistant Superintendent for Business, Webster Central School District

Resources

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What’s so scary about AI?

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 13:43:09 -0100

As artificial intelligence emerges as the next frontier in technology, many are excited about the possibilities that are on the horizon. However, there are just as many questions as much is unknown about artificial intelligence. In this episode, we discuss the implications of AI for school boards and attempt to calm any fears that may exist about the creation of our future robot overlords.

Host
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Dr. Mike Doughty, NERIC Assistant Superintendent, Capital Region BOCES

Resources

Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
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Diversity and the Student Voice

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 15:40:03 -0100

We are becoming a more diverse nation, and it is evident in our k-12 school communities. There are numerous benefits for our students when we consciously pay attention to diversity in schools. However, promoting diversity is more than just encouraging acknowledgement of different ethnic backgrounds. Real diversity initiatives capture the voices from all stakeholders and find the motivational engine for change through the voices of our students. In this episode Sweet Home Central School District is located in the northern suburbs of Buffalo, NY shares their story.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guests
Dr. Michael Ginestre, Superintendent, Sweet Home Central School District
Lily Fisher, Student, Sweet Home Central School District

Resources
Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
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Special Education Students Aging Out of the System – Changes in Eligibility Criteria

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 14:28:39 +0000

A recent federal court decision and an informal opinion of counsel from the NYS Education Department reinterpreted the law related to special education eligibility. In this episode, we focus on special education, specifically the rules for determining when a student with a disability has aged out of the eligibility criteria. As we dive into our discussion today, please keep in mind that board members should seek legal counsel from their school attorneys when considering these important legal developments. Host: Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA Guests: Jeff Weiss, Esq., Harris Beach PLLC Anne McGinnis, Esq. Harris Beach PLLC RESOURCES: Harris Beach Legal Alert, 7/10/23: New York Issues Legal Opinion that School Districts Provide Special Education Services Until Age 22 https://bit.ly/3LFtH71 Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com Stock media provided by www.pond5.com

Dismantling the School-to-Prison Pipeline: How to Promote Healthy School Climates & Student Outcomes

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 13:07:25 +0000

Recommendations from the statewide Safe Schools Task Force on school safety highlight a need to redesign school discipline policies and practices to foster a supportive and developmentally appropriate approach to school discipline in lieu of a more traditional and punitive model. This episode highlights restorative practices, an approach to school discipline that allows students to take responsibility for their actions by repairing harm. This approach improves student behavior and school climate. Best practices in school policy to support this approach are discussed.

Host
Gayle Simidian, Governance Research Analyst, NYSSBA

Guest
Jessica Goldstein, Deputy Director of Policy Services, NYSSBA

Resources
For policy questions, email the NYSSBA Policy Team at policy@nyssba.org.

Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
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New Superintendent: How to Foster a Successful Governance Team

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 14:25:34 +0000

No matter how good of a fit a new superintendent may be, onboarding is an important step that supports the successful transition of any new superintendent. There are some things a board can do to help effectively onboard their superintendent. After all, the board wants to maximize the return on the district’s investment in this new education leader and help build a successful future for all students.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guest
Dr. Vicky Ramos, Former Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES District Superintendent

Resources
Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
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The Important Qualities of the School Board President

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 12:43:52 +0000

As the calendars turn to July, boards of education will be preparing for their reorganization meetings. For some, these may seem like a formality, but there are very important things happening in these meetings, including newly elected board members officially taking their seats on the board and reciting the oath of office, decisions relating to the organizational structure of the district, such as the appointment of staff and responsibilities, and the election of board officers.

Resources

Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
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Electric Buses: What You Need to Know About the Future of Pupil Transportation

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 30 May 2023 18:50:03 +0000

In April of 2022, New York State established a nation-leading commitment to reduce greenhouse gas production by requiring all school buses in operation to be electric by 2035. A fully electric bus fleet will reduce harmful tailpipe emissions and our dependence on fossil fuels, but it comes with significant challenges for school districts.

In this episode, we will learn some of the challenges that lie ahead and what school board members can do now to prepare for the future.

Host
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, New York State School Boards Association

Guest
David Christopher, Executive Director, New York Association for Pupil Transportation

Resources
www.nyserda.ny.gov/
www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus
www.wri.org/
climate.ny.gov/
www.leonardbus.com/
www.matthewsbuses.com/
www.newyorkbussales.com/

Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
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Tik Tok Teen Talk: The Impact of Social Media on Gen Z

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 02 May 2023 12:51:27 +0000

Over the past few years, whether you’ve picked up a newspaper, read one online or tuned in to virtually any news broadcast, no doubt you’ve heard at least one story about social media’s harmful effects on teenagers.

This episode will spotlight this topic by highlighting research about teenagers’ own perspectives regarding social media use. Research from media scholars will explain how adults can help support youth via media literacy to help guide positive youth development and healthy hearts and minds.

Host
Gayle Simidian, Governance Research Analyst, NYSSBA

Resources
Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
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Agents of Change, Part II: How school boards can maximize achievement for all students

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 15:15:38 +0000

In Part II of the Agents of Change episode, we focused on the research that supports the benefits of providing equitable access and opportunities for students and the use of student voice in the decision-making process. Thanks to the feedback we’ve received from our listeners, we are happy to provide this follow-up episode.

Listen along as Mark turns theory into practice and provides specific actions that the school boards can take to ensure more equitable opportunities for students.

Host
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Resources

Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
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Agents of Change, Part I: Maximize student performance through access and opportunity

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 09:46:09 -0100

Listen to this episode to learn the answers to the following questions: How can district leaders (school board members and administration) ensure equitable access to programming and opportunities in their district? 1. How can district leaders start the conversation? 2. Why is student voice important in establishing district initiatives? 3. How can district leaders incorporate more student voice in the decision-making process? 4. What steps can be taken to get stakeholders on board with DEI-related district initiatives? Host: Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA Guest: Dr. Beth Bukoski, Assistant Professor and Department of Educational Leadership Coordinator, EdD in Leadership, Virginia Commonwealth University On Board Article - Why diversity, equity and inclusion is a priority: https://bit.ly/3Z86QFU On Board Article - Taking action to improve student outcomes: https://bit.ly/3Zq3Bth On Board Article - How can school boards support equity: https://bit.ly/3metlKJ Image of Equality-Equity Fence: https://bit.ly/3ZvFolv NYSSBA’s online courses, Foundations of DEI in Education and DEI in Education - The Board's Role: https://bit.ly/3Zoh8S3 Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com *Stock media provided by www.pond5.com.

Consensus Decision-Making: How to Build Unanimous Support (Re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 18:44:02 -0100

School boards have the responsibility to make important decisions on behalf of all students and the community they serve. Diverse perspectives and opposing viewpoints should not hinder or stifle deliberations. Understanding and implementing a consensus decision-making process can benefit your governance team and foster trust with all stakeholders. Join us to discover more about consensus building and how this process can lead to unanimous support.

Original air date: February 4, 2022.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development

Guests
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager

Resources
On Board article: Why it’s critical to reach consensus

Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
Stock media provided by www.pond5.com

Setting the Agenda

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 10:00:17 -0100

An agenda is the roadmap for a board meeting.

The board president uses it to keep meetings focused and moving forward. The agenda identifies various topics that will be discussed and actions that will be taken during the meeting.

In this episode of NYSSBA’s President’s Gavel, Jamie, Mark, and Darci answer commonly asked questions and discuss best practices for setting the agenda.

Host
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guests
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA
Mark Snyder, Senior Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Resources

Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
Stock media provided by www.pond5.com.

District Goal Setting for Student Success

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 10:00:27 +0000

As we continue to emerge from the pandemic, school boards can now refocus on leading their districts into the future. But how is this done? And what is the role of the board in setting visionary goals that will impact all aspects of the educational program?

In this episode, Mark and Jamie ask and answer these questions.

Stay with us…

Host
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Resources
Custom Board Retreat brochure:

Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
Stock media provided by www.pond5.com.

Unfinished learning: Identifying the gap and setting students up for success (Re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 09:00:08 +0000

As schools reopen, and we continue to move toward normal, it’s important for districts to continue to address the gap in student learning that resulted from the pandemic. Initially referred to as “learning loss”, many educators now characterize this disruption as “learning not realized” or “unfinished learning”.

Resources
Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
Stock media provided by www.pond5.com

Crossing the Divide: How Political Bias Jeopardizes Board Unity (Re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 10:00:12 +0000

As a board member, you may wonder how politics might impact boards of education. In this episode, we discuss why it is critical to keep politically charged issues out of the boardroom and how to ensure that your board maintains unity when so many in our country and communities are divided.

This episode was originally released in November 2020.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guests
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Resources
Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
Stock media provided by www.pond5.com.

What to Consider: Electing Your School Board President

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 11:00:03 +0000

With reorganization meetings just around the corner it’s time to start thinking about electing your board president. In this episode of President’s Gavel, Mark highlights what leadership skills matter most at the board table and shares five characteristics of a successful president.

Host
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manager

Resources
To learn more about NYSSBA’s Board Officers’ Forum contact mark.snyder@nyssba.org.

Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
Stock media provided by Jeppe Reil/Pond5

Onboarding New Members: Ensuring a Smooth Transition (Re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Fri, 20 May 2022 18:39:09 +0000

It often takes time for newly elected school board members to feel comfortable in their new positions. This transition can become uncomfortable following a contentious election, which all too often leads to conflict on a board. But there are ways board members can ease this burden and continue functioning at a high level.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development

Guests
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director, Leadership Development
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manager

Resources
Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
Stock media provided by www.pond5.com

How to Run Effective Meetings in a Polarizing Climate

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 26 Apr 2022 19:27:30 +0000

Running an effective school board meeting may look slightly different from district to district. But the need to understand how to lead effectively in a polarizing climate is universal. In this episode of the President’s Gavel Darci and Harris Beach attorney, Laura Purcell, are talking Open Meetings Law, video conferencing, public comment sessions, and much more. Stay with us.

Host
Darci D'Ercole, Director of Leadership Development

Guest
Laura Purcell, Esq., Harris Beach PLLC

Resources
Harris Beach PLLC | Attorneys at Law: www.harrisbeach.com
Stock media provided by www.pond5.com

The Board Self-Evaluation: An Opportunity for Improvement and Growth

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 15:45:17 +0000

Research has proven the most successful school boards engage in a continuing process of self-evaluation and use the results, to identify opportunities for improvement. In this episode, Mark explains the why a self-evaluation tool is useful and outlines five best practices for ensuring effective outcomes.

Host
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manager

Resources
Stock media provided by Jeppe Reil/Pond5

Consensus Decision-Making: How to Build Unanimous Support

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 15:33:52 -0100

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development

Guests
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manage

Resources
On Board article: Why it’s critical to reach consensus

Considerations and Concerns: The Board’s Role in Developing the Budget

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 15:18:17 -0100

The unofficial start of the budgeting season has begun, and there is a sense of optimism about Governor Hochul’s proposed executive budget as it reflects her pledge to increase funding for school districts.

In this episode, we will explore the board’s role in the budget development process. We will also discuss some of the factors boards should consider when planning for the financial future of their districts.

Host
Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, New York State School Boards Association

Guest
Michael Vespi, School Business Administrator, South Orangetown Central School District

Resources

Social Media: Friend or Foe (Re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 13:28:47 -0100

In this episode, Darci, Jamie, and Mark discuss the positives and negatives of social media. They identify how social media can benefit a school board and provide best practices tips. They also discuss how inappropriate use of social media can break trust among board members.

This episode debuted April 28, 2020.

Unfinished learning: Identifying the gap and setting students up for success

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 15:02:22 -0100

As schools reopen their doors to in-person learning, many students are struggling with the transition. Concerns about learning loss are universal. In fact, more than half of public-school teachers report significant learning loss for students both academically and from a social and emotional standpoint.

During NYSSBA’s virtual member event last month, Susanna Loeb, Director at the Annenberg Institute at Brown University and Professor of Education and International & Public Affairs, spoke about the learning needs of students following the pandemic. In today’s episode of the President’s Gavel, we continue this conversation with Susanna.

Fostering a Collaborative Culture: Has Your Board Defined its Unity of Purpose? (Re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 12:30:39 +0000

For many boards, defining their unity of purpose is still just as relevant as when this episode debuted in July 2020.

The 2021 school year is underway and school boards continue to face unique challenges brought forth by the pandemic. These challenges are made more difficult when board members are not working as a cohesive team. A unified board aligns its efforts with the vision, mission and values of its district, making it easier to address district concerns with one voice.

Managing the Difficult Board Member(Re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 13:00:39 +0000

In the current political climate, the likelihood of differences of opinion is fairly common. This becomes concerning when these differences of opinion hinder good governance. When this happens, it creates tension on a board and can often lead to one board member being singled out or misunderstood. Board members can also find themselves in conflict with a difficult board member.

Learn from a longstanding school board member with 10 years of experience serving as board president, how you can help minimize destructive behavior and turn a difficult board member into an exemplary board member.

This episode was originally released in November 2019.

Oversight or Overstepping: When do good intentions exceed authority? (Re-release)

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 19:55:34 +0000

All school board members want what is best for their students and communities. However, there are times when passion can lead a board member to take action that reaches beyond their authority. Join us as we discuss real world examples of how board members’ best intentions lead to overstepping their roles and the implications of their actions.

Is it Oversight or Overstepping? Think you know the answer? Then we invite you to be a contestant! Test your knowledge when the Leadership Development Team brings you, Oversight or Overstepping the game show, this October in New York City during NYSSBA’s annual convention. Join the fun Tuesday, October 26 at 11:15 a.m.

Onboarding New Members: Ensuring a Smooth Transition

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 12:03:22 +0000

When new members are elected to a school board, it often takes some time for them to feel comfortable in their new positions. In many districts, school board elections are highly contentious, which can often lead to conflict on the board and make this transition even more uncomfortable.

Join NYSSBA's Leadership Development team as they discuss how board members can ease this process and ensure the board continues to function during turnover.

Returning to the Classroom: Understanding & supporting the mental health & wellness of our students

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Thu, 20 May 2021 14:02:52 +0000

Many board members, district staff, parents and students are anticipating returning to the classroom. This transition to full-time, in-person learning will impact each student differently.

In this episode we discuss the mental health and wellness of students, the challenges they faced during the past year, and strategies to support students, staff, and families through their upcoming transition.

With all this in mind, how can board members support their students and envision the future for their districts at large?

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director, Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guest
Amy Molloy, Director, School Mental Health Resource and Training Center, Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc. and Board Member for Queensbury Union Free School District

Navigating Educational Equity: One district’s journey to equity and inclusion

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 11:59:59 +0000

As the calls for educational equity grow louder, school board members are often challenged with work that will lead the district down new paths with new goals and initiatives. Frequently, as boards take up this work, questions such as "How do we begin?" or "What is our role?" arise.

Join us as we hear about one school district’s journey toward equity and the successful outcomes they are seeing as a result.

Host
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Guest
Diane Wynne, Director of Wellness and Equity, Rush-Henrietta Central School District

The Superintendent Evaluation: Common questions from the field

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 11:00:20 +0000

School board members have a legal responsibility to evaluate their superintendent on an annual basis, but for many board members the process can seem like a daunting endeavor.

In this episode, NYSSBA's Leadership Development team answers commonly asked questions that will help your team effectively evaluate the performance of your superintendent.

Resources

Financial Challenges Ahead: What you need to know and ask during budget development

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 13:06:57 -0100

The proposed state budget calls for an increase in aid for school districts, but relies heavily on one-time stimulus funds. In addition, the budget is based on the assumption of yet to be approved federal funding.

This uncertainty, combined with the long term ramifications of the current financial crisis, has resulted in significant challenges for school districts in developing their budgets.

School board members need to understand the financial hurdles ahead, what questions to ask, and their role in the budgeting process.

Host
Deputy Director of Leadership Development, Jamie McPherson

Guest
Chief Business & Financial Officer at Bethlehem Central School District, Judith Kehoe

Bonus Track - School Funding Advocacy

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 10:00:45 -0100

This bonus track is an outtake from our upcoming episode Financial Challenges Ahead: What you need to know and ask during budget development scheduled to drop February 23rd.

The commentary ties into last month’s podcast regarding school board advocacy and the need for members to become actively involved. Especially now, during these stressful times when school districts are facing so much uncertainty and working to address the unique needs of their students.

Listen to Judith Kehoe as she shares her thoughts and ideas on how school boards can advocate for their district.

$900 Billion in Stimulus: Why advocating for students is more important now than ever before

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 12:35:29 -0100

2021 is now upon us and nine months after the initial CARES Act was signed into law, a second relief package recently passed leaving many to argue it’s not enough.

The pandemic and resulting financial crisis has taken its toll on public education and has left many school districts struggling to meet the new demands and needs for their students.

Join host Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development and Brian Fessler, Director of Governmental Relations, as they discuss why school board members have a responsibility to stand up for their students and advocate for the support and resources needed to ensure the success of the educational system.

A 2020 Retrospective: Success and Resiliency in a Challenging Year

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 15 Dec 2020 10:50:46 -0100

While there has been no shortage of challenges this year, school districts and boards of education have surmounted difficult odds.

The good news is we’ve prevailed, not perfectly, not always gracefully, but we’ve seen more success stories than we’ve seen failures.

In this episode of The President’s Gavel we're speaking with Jay Worona, Deputy Executive Director and General Counsel, NYSSBA, and reflecting on the resiliency and success that has occurred across the State in the midst of an unpredictable pandemic.

Crossing the Divide: How Political Bias Jeopardizes Board Unity

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 14:11:50 -0100

With so much attention focused on this year’s election, it would not be surprising to wonder how politics might impact your school board.

In this episode, our Leadership Development team discusses why it is critical to keep politically charged issues out of the boardroom and how to ensure that your board maintains unity when so many in our country and communities are divided.

NYSSBA’s 2020 Convention & Education Expo: Making Your Professional Development a Priority

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Wed, 07 Oct 2020 13:00:37 +0000

NYSSBA’s Convention is going virtual and we are excited for our members to be a part of this new experience!

Host Darci D’Ercole is joined by Barry Entwistle, Director of Member Relations, for a inside look at how this year's virtual Convention will inspire you to take your professional development to the next level.

From keynote speakers, to multiple educational sessions, to a Convention finale like no other (hint hint: we're bringing Broadway right into your living rooms), this is an event you won't want to miss.

PLUS, the first 1800 registrants receive a NYSSBA swag bag delivered to their home!

Schools Under Pressure: Communicating When Stakes are High

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 28 Sep 2020 13:23:38 +0000

The reopening of schools has been accompanied by anxiety, frustration, and concerns regarding the health, safety, and academic progression of students. When stakes are high and issues are emotionally charged it’s imperative that board members communicate effectively to create clarity, provide positive reassurance, and to preserve trust among the community.

Join Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development for the New York State School Boards Association, as she speaks with : Scott Levy, current board member and the immediate past president of Byram Hills Central School District and the Executive Director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence in the Yale Child Study Center.

Back to School: Effectively Communicate Your District's Re-Opening Plan

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Wed, 19 Aug 2020 18:54:04 +0000

When students return to school this fall, they will be entering an educational environment that is very different than the one they left in March. Undoubtedly, some of these changes will prove unpopular with some parents and community members. Effectively communicating these changes to all stakeholders, and remaining calm under pressure, are the keys to ensuring that new requirements and expectations are understood and followed.

Join us as we discuss the board’s role in communicating the district’s re-opening plans and how collaboration with the superintendent is the key to ensuring that all stakeholders are well-informed.

Host
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manager

Guests
Mark Kokanovich – Board President: Brighton Central School District
Dr. Kevin McGowan – Superintendent: Brighton Central School District

Fostering a Collaborative Culture: Has Your Board Defined its Unity of Purpose?

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 21 Jul 2020 10:00:10 +0000

When members of the board are not working cohesively, stress and conflict can compromise their ability to govern effectively. Join us as we discuss the importance of a unified board and offer strategies for maintaining a collaborative culture.

Host
Darci D’Ercole, Director of Leadership Development, NYSSBA

Guests
Jamie McPherson, Deputy of Leadership Development, NYSSBA
Mark Snyder, Leadership Development Manager, NYSSBA

Oversight or Overstepping: When do good intentions exceed authority?

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 11:49:58 +0000

All school board members want what is best for their students and communities. However, there are times when passion can lead a board member to take action that reaches beyond their authority.

Join us as we discuss real world examples of how board members’ best intentions have lead to overstepping their role, and the implications of their actions.

Leading During a Crisis

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 12 May 2020 11:53:50 +0000

As the COVID-19 pandemic shuts down school buildings across the state, NYSSBA’s Leadership Development professionals speak with Anne Savage, BOE president for the Albany City Schools, to address many of the questions and concerns impacting your governance team.

Listen as the team reviews the role of the board during a crisis and shares how some boards are handling the new challenges caused by the pandemic.

Social Media: Friend or Foe

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 11:52:53 +0000

In this month’s podcast, NYSSBA’s Leadership Development team discusses the positives and negatives of social media. Listen as we identify how social media can benefit a school board, best practices, and how inappropriate use can cause a breakdown in trust on the board.

The Imperfect Board Member: Courage and Character

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 12:06:57 -0100

Governing is not an easy task.

Hear from Tim Kremer as we explore how to help new board members become part of the team and possess the right attributes to be a good board member while building a successful relationship with the superintendent.

For more information about the Blueprint, please contact NYSSBA's Leadership Development department at 1-800-342-3360.

Managing the Difficult Board Member

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Fri, 22 Nov 2019 12:24:38 -0100

Many of us are challenged with difficult board members and their behaviors.

Learn from a longstanding experienced board member, with over 10 years of experience as a board president, how you can help minimize destructive behavior and turn a difficult board member into an exemplary board member.

Guest
Kathy Dillon, longstanding board member of the Churchville-Chili BOE and President of the Monroe County School Boards Association

Superintendent Evaluation: Why the Process is Important

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Mon, 21 Oct 2019 19:15:47 +0000

The superintendent’s evaluation is one of the most important responsibilities of the board of education.

A poor process can stall and stymie the superintendent, but an effective evaluation process can support your superintendent and propel the district forward exponentially to realize real progress.

Tune into this episode and gain insight from a board president and superintendent as they discuss their district's evaluation process.

Guests
Frank Chiachiere, Ph.D., BOE President, Valley Stream 13 School District
Dr. Constance D. Evelyn, Superintendent, Valley Stream 13 School District

Becoming President: Things I Didn’t Expect

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 12:07:05 +0000

Darci D'Ercole, NYSSBA's Director of Leadership Development, sits down with four new school board presidents to discuss their experiences so far.

Guests
Northport-East Northport UFSD BOE President: David Badanes
Roosevelt UFSD BOE President: Charlena Croutch
Uniondale UFSD BOE President: Charmise Desire
Mattituck-Cutchogue UFSD BOE President: Barbara Wheaton

Being President: Even when you don’t get all the votes!

NYSSBA's President's Gavel Podcast — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 12:45:14 +0000

Hear advice on leading through relationship building, why these skills and good governance practices will help you be a more influential leader, especially if you didn’t get a unanimous vote for the officer position you hold. Your ability to lead may lie in your ability to positively influence others to join together. Communication is your fundamental tool.

Resources