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.

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

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

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

Must be an active board member
Does not apply to Regional Meetings
Limited to two events per individual

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

$325 covers Fall Conference registration
Remaining $25 can be used for parking

Must be an active board member
First-time Fall Conference attendee
Limited to one applicant per school corporation

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