Whether you’re a new board member, or a seasoned veteran, you’ll benefit from hearing the latest in legislation, board development, student achievement and other critical topics.
Board Leadership Institute will broaden your expertise, sharpen your leadership skills and better equip you to tackle the challenges facing your district.

Developed by board members for board members, this event features learning sessions tailored to you. Whether you're a new board member in your first term or a seasoned veteran, you'll benefit from hearing the latest on finances, legislation, school law, board development, student achievement and other critical topics.

Event Registration Closes at noon on Monday April, 29, 2024.
All Cancellations for refunds must be made by noon on Monday April 29, 2024.
Hotel Room Cancellations must be made with the hotel directly and are subject to their cancelation policy.

Board Leadership Institute will be held at:
Hilton Columbus Polaris
8700 Lyra Drive
Columbus OH 43240
614-885-1600

The hotel is currently SOLD OUT of sleeping rooms, please contact Scott Clay sclay@ohioschoolboards.org for alternative hotel room options.

Thank you to our luncheon sponsors: Sedgwick Claim Management Services and Sedgwick Managed Care Ohio

Friday May 3, 2024

8 a.m.
Registration opens and breakfast

Polaris Ballroom Foyer

Deluxe Breakfast buffet: seasonal fresh fruit and berries, assorted breakfast pastries, sliced bagels and cream cheese, Individual yogurts and homemade granola, assorted cereals with milk, Scrambled eggs, seasoned potatoes, bacon, sausage, creme brulee french toast casserole, coffee, decaf, hot tea, orange and cranberry juices.

please contact Scott Clay with special dietary requests

9 a.m.
Welcome and Announcements
Dr. Kathy McFarland, chief executive officer, OSBA Cheryl Ryan, director of board and management services, OSBA Sally Green, president, OSBA Board of Directors

Polaris Ballrooms ABC

9:10 a.m.
Opening General Session: Empowering heroes: Anticipating the future for Ohio's students
Stephen D. Dackin, director , Ohio Department of Education and Workforce

Preparing students for success means understanding the connections between the classroom, real-world experiences, and the knowledge and skills needed for a bright future. Students and their parents and guardians face many challenges and opportunities in effectively navigating the educational and workforce systems. Discover how school boards can anticipate students’ future needs to empower them for their heroes’ journey.

Polaris Ballroom ABC

10:15 a.m.
Networking Break

Polaris Ballroom Foyer

10:30 a.m.
Concurrent session 1: Planning for a disaster
Brian Moore, board member, East Palestine City and Columbiana County Career & Technical Center &. Chris Neifer, superintendent, East Palestine City Schools
Although the media provided a perspective on the 2023 train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, those affected by this disaster have more to share. After facing many challenges, the school board offers advice on dealing with and preparing for a disaster in your district.

Polaris Ballroom F
10:30 a.m.
Concurrent Session 1: Legal considerations for levy campaigns
Sara C. Clark, chief legal counsel, OSBA

Explore the latest guidance from the Ohio Auditor of State’s Office regarding what is permitted and prohibited district activity when a levy is on the ballot. Review best practices for effective communication, use of district resources and working with the district’s levy committee.

Polaris Ballroom E

10:30 a.m.
Concurrent Session 1: AI writing generators — the good, the bad and the ugly
Robert J. McBride, Esq., Ennis Britton Co. LPA; and Matt Young, assistant superintendent; George N. Burich, assistant principal; Scott DeTray, principal; and Robert Moore, director of Information Technology, Cuyahoga Heights Local (Cuyahoga)

Review issues related to using artificial intelligence (AI) writing generators in K-12 schools. This panel explores the benefits and drawbacks of these technologies, highlighting the ethical and practical considerations in education. 

Polaris Ballroom D

11:30 a.m.
Concurrent sessions 2: Hey! I have a ‘hypothetical’ for you!
Cheryl W. Ryan, director board and management services, OSBA
Explore some of the scenarios and hypothetical situations that present difficulty for board members and leadership teams. In this interactive session, participants can select the scenarios to discuss using Mentimeter. Join in the conversation as we consider strategies to address some sticky situations.

Polaris Ballroom F
11:30 a.m.
Concurrent Session 2: Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (DEW) priorities and updates
Dr. Scott J. Hunt, deputy chief field relations, DEW

Learn about the new governance structure specific to DEW, the State Board of Education and the new Ohio Department of Children and Youth. In addition, discover agency priorities and positive impacts of the governor’s budget.

Polaris Ballroom E

11:30 a.m.
Concurrent Session 2 : Realigning OHSAA’s divisions
Doug Ute, executive director, OHSAA

Review the updated process and structural changes for sports divisions that are being implemented by the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) and ongoing realignments across several sports.

Polaris Ballroom D

12:30 p.m.
Lunch and networking opportunity

Polaris Ballroom ABC:  Join us for lunch and an opportunity to connect with board members from your region. Plan to expand your network, exchange ideas and build valuable connections.

Sponsored by Sedgewick Claim Management Services


Southern Picnic Lunch Buffet: marinated cucumber, onion and tomato salad, potatoe salad, coleslaw, biscuits and cornbread served with honey and butter, southern fried chicken, bbq pork ribs, blackened salmon, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, banana pudding and pecan pie, iced tea, water, coffee, decaf and hot teas

*please contact Scott Clay with special dietary need requests

1:30 p.m.
Concurrent session 3: Legal quick hits: What you need to know
Sara C. Clark, chief legal counsel; Jennifer A. Hardin, senior deputy director of legal services; and John Price, staff attorney, OSBA
Attorneys from OSBA's legal division review timely legal matters affecting public education. Learn how these issues may impact your district and leave with practical tips for compliance.

Polaris Ballroom F
1:30 p.m.
Concurrent Session 3: Lighting a spark for education
Brooke Robinson, parent/family liaison, and Daniel Marcum, board member, New Miami Local (Butler)

New Miami Local’s (Butler) Spark Program for 2-year-olds uses a structured approach to prepare children for kindergarten. Learn more about this innovative program and its funding sources.

Polaris Ballroom E

1:30 p.m.
Concurrent Session 3: Building an effective DEI committee
Amber Ballard, board member, Norwood City and Great Oaks Career Campuses, Mary Cleveland, board member, Great Oaks Career Campuses & Princeton City Board of Education, Jim Perdue, board member, Reading Community City and Great Oaks Career Campuses

Looking through an equity-focused lens creates opportunities for all students to succeed. Discover tools and strategies to create an effective diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) committee and build buy-in for sharing practices within your district.

Polaris Ballroom D

2:30 p.m.
Concurrent session 4: Training for conflict resolution
Al Long, board member, Great Oaks Career Campuses; and Ray A. Freeman, board member, Warrensville Heights City
Often, board members face challenges and disagreements, and not just with each other. In this interactive session, learn the root causes of conflicts and effective techniques to address them.

Polaris Ballroom F
2:30 p.m.
Concurrent Session 4: What’s your code: Are you living a mission that improves student opportunities?
Kim Miller-Smith, senior student achievement consultant, OSBA

When the district leadership team works together, student achievement increases. Guided by the district’s vision and mission statements, the leadership team — school board members and district administrators — conducts business, creates policy and holds itself accountable to effectively educate students. Is it just that simple? Of course not! Come and reflect on your personal code and learn how the team can live the mission and improve student opportunity.

Polaris Ballroom E

2:30 p.m.
Concurrent Session 4: Empowering diverse school and home connections: Strategies for intentional parent and family engagement
Mary Cleveland, board member, Princeton City and Great Oaks Career Campuses

Gain insights into building intentional and purposeful relationships that contribute significantly to a vibrant and supportive school community. Princeton City Schools shares how it empowers parents and families using signature programs, including the Parent Academy, Second Cup of Coffee, Hispanic Heritage Festival, Festival of Arts, Literacy & Resource Fair and the Princeton Mobile Book Center.

Polaris Ballroom D

3:30 p.m.
Networking Reception

Polaris Ballroom Foyer: Join your fellow board members and OSBA staff for a networking reception featuring lite appetizers and a cash bar

4:30 p.m.
Adjournment

Saturday May 4, 2024

8:30 a.m.
Breakfast and Networking

Polaris Ballroom ABC

Deluxe Continental Breakfast to include: seasonal fresh fruit and berries, assorted individual yogurts and homemade granola, assorted pastries, scones, danishes, croissants, and muffins, assorted cold cereals and milk, coffee, decaf, hot tea, orange and cranberry juices

Please contact Scott Clay for any special dietary requests

9:15 a.m.
Concurrent session 5: Building partnerships that strengthen youth mental health programs
John Dellick, certified youth peer specialist, Mahoning County; Kennedy Wilbert, certified youth peer specialist, Lorain County; Tyler Stepp, student leader, Franklin County; and Arianna Fellure, student leader, Gallia County
Learn how schools can enhance their mental health programs through partnerships and youth peer supports. NAMI Ohio YouthMOVE (Motivating Others through Voices of Experience) is a youth and young adult led organization devoted to improving systems and services by promoting youth inclusion, mental wellness, authentic voice and healthy transitions for youth and young adults 14 to 30. YouthMOVE Peer Support leaders, including two high school students and two young professionals, will share their personal and professional lived experience with school based mental health services. Presenters will give an overview of NAMI Ohio's (National Alliance for Mental Illness) and YouthMOVE's free programs and services along with local and state resources, and tips on how schools can strengthen their mental health programs through incorporating youth peer support and partnerships. www.youthmoveohio.com

Polaris Ballroom F
9:15 a.m.
Concurrent session 5: Creating a culture of career focus
Dr. Damon Davis, superintendent, and Mark Edwards, director of curriculum, Reading Community City

Students are searching for their “why” in education. As they progress through their educational career, building a culture of connection to post-high school plans is essential. Find out how Reading Community City is creating a culture of career-focused results by inspiring students and teachers.

Polaris Ballroom E

9:15 a.m.
Concurrent session 5: Innovating education through board policy: How technology shapes and safeguards our schools
Kenna S. Haycox, deputy director of board and management services, and Gamy Narvaez, policy consultant, OSB

Ever-evolving technology plays a critical role in shaping the future of our education systems. OSBA policy experts explore recent developments in key technology topics, such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, through a board policy lens. Review the benefits of technology in the classroom, tips on how to avoid potential pitfalls and some emerging threats to school districts in the digital age.

Polaris Ballroom D

10:15 a.m.
Networking Break

Polaris Ballroom Foyer

10:30 a.m.
Concurrent session 6: OSBA Book Club: The final chapter
Quinn Maceyko, board and management services consultant, OSBA
Explore how the OSBA Book Club helps board members expand their knowledge and skill sets. Join the discussion of the thoughts and revelations from this spring's book selection along with what is coming in the fall.

Polaris Ballroom F
10:30 a.m.
Concurrent Session 6: Communicating for results
Kristine Robbins, board and management services consultant, OSBA

Our ability to communicate well with our board colleagues and administrative leadership team is a key competency for leadership excellence. Learn how to recognize and use various communication styles to build relationships and trust with others. 

Polaris Ballroom E

10:30 a.m.
Concurrent Session 6: Money matters
Cajon Keeton, treasurer, Benton-Carroll-Salem Local (Ottawa)

From understanding millage and diverse revenue streams to navigating state funding and supplementary resources, this session offers a complete picture of the financial landscape. Explore both sides of the financial equation — revenue and expenditures — to understand how changes can impact school budgets.

Polaris Ballroom D

11:30 a.m.
Luncheon and Closing Address
Jennifer Hogue, director of legislative services; Nicole Piscitani, deputy director of legislative services; and Scott Palider, lobbyist, OSBA

Polaris Ballroom ABC: Key issues at the Statehouse

OSBA's legislative team reviews recent activity at the Statehouse. Hear updates on the biennial budget and important education-related bills that are pending or have passed in the Ohio General Assembly.

Sponsored by Sedgwick Managed Care Ohio

Menu: Served Luncheon Spinach Salad with onion, chopped bacon, hard boiled egg, served with a. honey french dressing, Roasted chicken with a lemon caper sauce, fingerling potatoes, haricot vert, rolls & butter, Vanilla Bean Cheesecake or Chocolate Mousse Cake, Iced Tea, Water, Coffee, Decaf, or Hot Tea available upon request

Please contact Scott Clay for any special dietary requests

1 p.m.
Adjournment

Thank you for attending the Board Leadership Institute.