The Member Assistance Fund (MAF)
​aims to support districts and individual board members in participating in ISBA’s Seminars and Fall Conference, particularly those with limited financial resources or low engagement.
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This program is designed to ensure access to professional development opportunities and enhance board leadership capabilities.

Annual Limits & Funding Categories

Seminars​
  • Individual Limit: Up to $250 per year
  • District Limit: Up to $1,500 per year
  • Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and allocations cease once the annual budget is depleted​
District Applications
  • Supports seminars benefiting two or more board members (Does not apply to Fall Conference)
  • Covers 50% of registration fees, up to $1,500. For instance:
    • If total registration fees are $1,250, MAF provides $625, and the district pays $625
  • Travel fees are not eligible
Individual Applications
  • Provides assistance for event registrations listed on ISBA’s calendar (e.g., Seminars, Webinars, EGA courses, with the exception of Fall Conference)
  • Covers 50% of registration fees, up to $250. For instance: 
    • If total registration fees are $250, MAF covers $125, and the board member or school district pays $125
  • Travel fees are not eligible
Eligibility Requirements
  • Must be an active board member
  • Does not apply to Regional Meetings
  • Limited to two events per individual
Application Process
Initial Review
  • ISBA staff member conducts the initial evaluation and provides eligible applications to the MAF Committee
Final Determination
  • The MAF Committee (comprised of 2 ISBA staff, 1 ISBA Board of Director Executive Committee, 1 ISBA Board of Directors Region Director) makes the final funding determination
Deadline
  • 30 days prior to requested seminar
Fall Conference​
  • Number Available: 10
  • Amount per person: $350
  • Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis
Individual Applications
  • $325 covers Fall Conference registration
  • Remaining $25 can be used for parking
Eligibility Requirements
  • Must be an active board member
  • First-time Fall Conference attendee
  • Limited to one applicant per school corporation
Application Process
Selection
  • If applications exceed 10, the MAF committee evaluates and selects recipients
  • ISBA staff member conducts the initial evaluation and provides eligible applications to the MAF Committee
  • The MAF Committee makes the final funding determination
  • Selections will be made and recipients will be notified no later than August 1st
Deadline
  • Submit your application no later than July 1st

Registration Process

  • Register for Seminars or Fall Conference as usual
    • Select the Bill Me option on the registration form
    • Paid invoices will not qualify
  • Ensure the MAF application is submitted alongside or by the deadline
  • Upon approval, you will receive guidance on next steps

Key Benefits

Financial Relief
  • Alleviates cost barriers, allowing districts and board members to participate in essential professional development opportunities
Enhanced Engagement
  • Encourages participation from members and districts with historically lower involvement
Customizable Support
  • Flexibility in funding for various seminars and Fall Conference