Safety, Staffing, and Legislative Updates Explored During TASB’s Spring Workshops

Austin— Registration is now open for TASB’s annual Spring Workshops held in locations across the state to bring insightful and relevant training opportunities closer to home for school board members.

The workshops allow board members to earn continuing education credits, receive critical legislative updates, and expand their networks — connecting and collaborating with other education leaders from neighboring districts. 

“The Spring Workshops offer training opportunities for board members so they can gain the tools and resources needed to successfully set goals and plan for challenges,” said TASB Executive Director Dan Troxell. “At TASB, we work with our members to create the programming they want and need, bringing the subject matter experts right to them, at home in their local regions. The workshops are a perfect time to collaborate and plan for the continued growth and success of their schools and students.”   

To bring the most effective training to district leaders, TASB partners with education service centers, colleges, and area school board associations. Workshops are offered from late March through the end of May at 16 locations around the state, from Lubbock to El Paso and Houston to Waco. Programming is designed to address districts’ specific needs in each region. While some workshops may be structured with a home district or region in mind, board members and superintendents from any region in Texas may attend workshops they believe will be beneficial – no matter the location.

Along with the individualized workshops offered at every location, TASB will also be providing three in-demand sessions that will focus on important updates and information crucial for all members. Those workshops include: 

• Weathering the Staffing and Recruitment Storm – HR Services: Staffing and recruitment have hit a near-crisis situation for many districts, with staffing challenges related to the pandemic and the unusually high number of teacher resignations. In this session, TASB’s HR Services will share strategies and tips to offer immediate and long-term assistance. It will also offer creative solutions for staffing and recruitment challenges when funding is reduced due to enrollment reductions, lower student attendance rates, or a reduction in ESSER funds. 
• School Safety and Security: Laws, Regulations, and Best Practices: This session will cover important topics ranging from safety and security legislation currently under consideration during the 88^th Legislative session, to providing an update on laws and regulations related to the safety and security of district campuses and facilities. Also, a summary of best practices for safety and security will be shared and discussed. 
• Catching up with the 88^th Legislature – Board Development Services: In this session, participants will learn about resources to stay up to date on what is happening in the Legislature and get tips on how to better advocate on behalf of their districts. Participants will also get an update on public education-related bills that are moving through the Legislature and what to expect. 

Workshop registration is underway with sign-ups opening at locations around the state on a rolling basis. Visit the Spring Workshops page to find a location near you, check session dates, get more information, and to register.