New Board Member Academy
Welcome New School Board Members
ISBA's New Board Member Academy is a comprehensive learning experience designed to empower newly elected and appointed school board members with the knowledge and skills needed to govern effectively. Graduates of the New Board Member Academy will leave equipped with strategies, tools, and practical guidance that can be put to use immediately.
Participants start by attending an in-person masterclass seminar in January, continue with two deep-dive webinars in March and April, and conclude with a cohort reunion for reflection, group discussion, questions, and networking.
Learning Objectives
Governance
1) Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of the school board 2) Conducting effective board meetings 3) Strategies for building consensus and fostering collaboration 4) Understand the importance of goal setting tied to student achievement outcomes 5) Principles of sound fiscal stewardship
Legal
1) Navigate Open Door and Public Access Laws 2) Establish policies that align with legal requirements and community expectations 3) Recognize legal and ethical standards for board conduct and communication
Networking
1) Build a network of support with fellow school board members 2) Share ideas and insights with peers 3) Join a learning network focused on best practices and continuous growth
What to Expect
Masterclass Seminar
January 2027The New Board Member Academy begins with a foundational masterclass seminar covering the fundamental role of the school board, meeting procedures, the board/superintendent relationship, and more. Each masterclass seminar will run from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. local time.
- Choose from six in-person locations and a virtual option: January 9, 2027 - LaPorte (Kesling Intermediate School) or Jasper High School January 16, 2027 - Indianapolis/Virtual (CIESC) or Fort Wayne (NACS Admin Center) January 23, 2027 - West Terre Haute (Vigo County SC Admin Center) or Seymour High School
Virtual Clinic - Advocacy
March 2027The first webinar will take a deep dive into advocacy, public policy, and the legislative process.
- Choose one: March 9, 2027 - 12:30 p.m. March 16, 2027 - 6:15 p.m.
Virtual Clinic - Budget/Finance
April 2027The second webinar focuses on fiscal stewardship, school funding, and budgetary oversight.
- Choose one: April 20, 2027 - 12:30 p.m. April 22, 2027 - 6:15 p.m.
Cohort Reunion
July - August 2027The Academy will conclude with a two-hour in-person check-in for reflection, group discussion, questions, and peer networking. Each reunion corresponds to a masterclass seminar, providing attendees with a cohort experience.
- Choose from six in-person locations and a virtual option: July 17, 2027 - LaPorte (Kesling Intermediate School) or Jasper High School July 24, 2027 - Indianapolis/Virtual (CIESC) or Fort Wayne (NACS Admin Center) August 7, 2027 - West Terre Haute (Vigo County SC Admin Center) or Seymour High School
Registration Options
The Full Academy Package includes the masterclass seminar, both virtual webinars, and the network reunion. Participants may also register for only the masterclass seminar.
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Full Academy Package | $375 Early Bird | $425 Regular Price Early bird pricing ends December 14. Register by December 14 to save $50 on the full academy package.
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Masterclass Seminar Only | $250