MASB keeps me up-to-date with the latest details about what’s happening in Lansing concerning education in Michigan. MASB offers timely programs and classes for board members to be better educated about being a school board member. I feel I’m part of an organization that’s truly concerned about education in Michigan!

-Cindy Gansen, board member, Flushing Community Schools & Genesee ISD
 

MASB helps our board members and myself see that we're part of a "bigger picture" than just our local district. This knowledge helps our governance team more effectively meet the needs of our students, as well as advocate for logical reforms to our system.

-Dave Campbell, superintendent, Olivet Community Schools

What I appreciate most from MASB is not only their analysis of the issues impacting education, but their assistance with creating a response to those issues, so that all board members have the opportunity to speak to those issues with one voice. The professionalism received, and the overwhelming desire to assist you with whatever your needs may be, is ingrained in the staff culture. Every individual is always ready to serve board members, and their school districts.

-Michael Rochholz, board member, Schoolcraft Community Schools

MASB provides board members the opportunity to develop their skills as a board member by offering multiple opportunities for training and opportunities to network with other board members from across the state. I'm a more productive board member because of these opportunities and the students in my school district have benefited because of these experiences.

–Marc Katz, board member, Berkley School District

We have the best members! It’s inspiring to work with and serve such a dedicated group of leaders. I’m always impressed at their commitment to learn. Board members genuinely care about the kids in their districts and are always trying to be informed of the best ways to lead and improve their districts. In addition, their commitment to each other and willingness to help, support and mentor each other is encouraging.

-Angela Kanazeh, meeting planner & CBA program manager

As a board member in today's volatile economic environment, it's important to know that we have an organization dedicated to our success despite all of the challenges. MASB helps to sift through the many fast moving issues and makes it possible to focus on what is critical for the success of the students in our districts.

-Frank Reid, board member, Farmington Public Schools

I enjoy coming to work every day knowing that I share the same passion and commitment to public education and service as our members do. It makes my day more rewarding, which is why I’ve chosen to invest 13 years in the nonprofit industry.

-Jennifer Rogers, director of communications and public relations

I’ve had the great pleasure of working with hundreds of board members across the state. Their dedication, compassion and commitment to public education and for the children in their district is truly gratifying to experience. With the increasing demand for educational excellence and fiscal accountability, the responsibilities of school boards are far more numerous and of greater impact than at any previous time in history. I’m thankful we have so many board members who have taken on this responsibility with great passion and courage. Board members are a role model for every student in their district and are the ultimate example of true commitment to the civic mission of promoting a free and democratic society.

-Kathy Hayes, executive director
 

I value our membership with MASB for a number of reasons. MASB is always there to answer questions, run classes, conferences and workshops on every aspect of school board issues from board/superintendent relations to analyzing data and budgets. They’re just a great resource for all board members.

-Renny Ransbottom, board member, Otsego Public Schools

MASB is the go-to organization for all areas of information that school board members and administrators may require to do their jobs better as representatives of their communities. I have great confidence in the expertise of the MASB staff to assist with any challenge or task before me. A great organization is made stronger by the role it provides to the customers it serves!!

-Anita L. Osterman, board president, Fremont Public Schools

We at Ingham ISD have been using ERIN since the service started. It's an excellent resource for many things, but particularly for negotiations. The ease of use and the quality of the data makes this resource invaluable to us as we prepare for and respond to the unions at the table.

-Stan Kogut, superintendent, Ingham ISD

In these very difficult times for Michigan school districts, we're all looking for ways to do more with less and MASB provides many ways to help a school board member do so. By providing opportunities to learn from and network with peers to timely information about developments in Lansing, MASB helps me be a more effective and efficient board member.

-Chris Coady, board member, Haslett Public Schools

It’s so important to know we’re not alone as we struggle through the challenges a board faces in their district. Discussing with other board members how they are dealing with the same issues gives us a different prospective. MASB communication keeps us abreast of the rapidly changing legislation as well as inspiration from the articles. As board members we have big responsibilities. The CBA classes give us the tools we need to be responsible board members for our communities and our school districts. They also teach us the skills we need to function as an effective board. 

-Heidi Pfannes, board member, Mattawan Public Schools

During this turbulent time in Michigan K-12 education it's good to know that MASB is truly working to better serve their member districts. I have personally found MASB legal counsel to be of great value. When I call for legal assistance I am able to speak with legal counsel immediately, or I can count on a prompt return call. The informative and timely school law resource provided by MASB is invaluable to our district.

-Kevin Harness, superintendent, Allegan Public Schools

We're extremely fortunate to have an association that supports the local school district's needs and goals in Michigan. MASB continues to be successful and enormously helpful because of the wonderfully talented and capable people who strive to immediately provide resources, guidance and training. Our district has repeatedly utilized the quality services to assist in personal growth, board development, engaging our community, writing effective policy, and receive immediate legal advice.
The timely and positive responses to requests are refreshing and a tremendous assistance in operating a quality school district.

-Lisa Hagel, superintendent, Mt. Morris Consolidated Schools

The first month of being a newly elected board member, your services are invaluable in making sure that we're equipped with the knowledge that we need to be competent board members. We learn how to make informed decisions for our district and kids. I came on board in my district so that I could have influence to make things better, and because of workshops, networking and conferences that you offered I was able to find things in other districts to make an impact in our district. The speakers and experts that you bring in are very insightful and helpful in the advice that they gave. Personally, I like the MASB classes because it shows our kids and community that we're willing to do the same thing that we ask of our students, which is higher education and furthering our learning so that we can be effective for our district.

-Rose Miller, board member, Battle Creek Public Schools

MASB has been and continues to be of tremendous value to me during my 15 years of local board service including the last 10 years as president. The friendships that have developed by attending classes and seminars have been so encouraging and helpful. The training and information I have received has guided me around corners and obstacles that I had no idea I would encounter. While MASB has so many excellent resources and staff members, I would like to specifically mention Brad Banasik. I have called Brad many, many times throughout the years for legal guidance and direction. Brad is more than up-to-date on emerging trends, knows the historical perspective of issues, and is there to help you and me. As I recently said to Kathy Hayes, I can’t envision myself serving in this capacity if I didn't know Brad was just a phone call away.

-Mike Brown, board member, Fowlerville Community Schools

MASB has been a true friend in times of need. In addition to the help that they've provided me in securing my position, they've provided great legal advice, worthwhile professional development for my board, and the occasional sounding block for pent-up frustrations followed by down-to-earth good advice. In addition to their leadership, I’ve come to rely on their partnership as we navigate through these challenging times.  

-Bruce S. Burger, superintendent, Gibraltar School District

I can’t say enough about the services I have received from Brad Banasik over the years. I have worked with Brad over many years and can ALWAYS count on him to respond to my needs in a timely and professional manner. I’m certain that each district I have worked in has more than "saved" our dues by working with Brad on legal issues. More recently I was involved with a MASB board training session at Maple Valley Public Schools and felt that the facilitator did an excellent job of helping the local board members better understand their role as board members and also to identify a few district goals where they could focus their attention. 

-Al Widner, superintendent, Eaton ISD

MASB resources help me "practice what we preach." As board members, we have a laser focus on the student growth, achievement and success in our respective districts. It’s imperative that board members make that same commitment to their personal growth and development. MASB has been an invaluable resource to help me achieve this objective.

-Dennis O’Connor, treasurer, Novi Community Schools

I’m excited about being a board member because I've had a chance to meet more people in my community who are concerned and as passionate about our young people as I am. It’s the idea of knowing that I’m a part of the decision-making that contributes to a positive change. There’s so much I want to know about how to be effective board member and the few classes that I've had thus far has me yearning to learn more.

-Lorane McMillan, board member, Buena Vista Schools

I value my MASB membership because it makes me a better board member. I highly recommend that all school board members take advantage of the professional development courses and the valuable resources available through MASB.  

-Becky Brimley, secretary, Mason Public Schools

MASB membership is a terrific value because it provides courses with experienced instructors and guest speakers who help put us in a position to understand what the national, state and local issues are. It also helps us to better understand what we should be doing and what questions we should be asking. By providing these kinds of services, it allows us to be more informed and qualified leaders.

-Marvin Morris, board member, Bridgeport Spaulding Community Schools

The legal service provided by Brad Banasik has proven to be invaluable. It’s a great way to double check a topic before I answer a question or make a decision, especially when my first response has to be right. I've asked about weapon's law, Facebook usage, texting/sexting, purpose of paid leave and for examples of bullying policies, just to name a few. Quite often, I'll get a response back referencing case law or a copy of a PowerPoint that Brad has done on a particular topic. When in doubt, I check it out.  

 ­-Cal DeKuiper, superintendent, Ludington Area School District

I like MASB because it provides a framework for board members to interact and obtain professional training to better prepare members to more effectively and efficiently fulfill their responsibilities. The training (both CBA and optional classes) is what I value most. They provide the opportunity to exchange ideas regarding school governance and the challenging times that face us. It also provides the opportunity for those districts that excel to provide the catalyst for others to follow.  

-Harvey Jones, board member, Perry Public Schools

When I was a Kentucky superintendent, I greatly valued the Kentucky Association of School Boards. When I came to Michigan, I hoped for the same relationship. To my relief, I found MASB to be just as viable a resource. During the past 10 years in the Holly Area Schools, my faith in MASB's worth has only increased. Whether my questions come from a myriad of perspectives, MASB has always been a source of support and germane information. I have nothing but kudos to offer for MASB.  

-Kent Barnes, superintendent, Holly Area Schools

Professional development is essential in the educational industry and local boards of education should be an example for the employees of the district. I've found the quality of courses offered through MASB to be extremely valuable to our district. The courses are offered at a reasonable rate, convenient locations and offered frequently enough where you're able to take multiple courses throughout a school year, without feeling overwhelmed! Additionally, MASB offers courses online for the busy professional. The instructors are knowledgeable, pleasant to work with and make themselves available after the training. Every member of the Grand Rapids Public School board has taken at least one course and a few have earned MASB certifications. This is an investment that has truly paid off!

 -Senita Lenear, vice president, Grand Rapids Public Schools

As we all work together to try to make significant improvements to education in this extremely difficult financial climate, I can’t think of a more important time for board members to take advantage of the quality training and support offered by MASB. Now, more than ever, it’s critical that board members and superintendents work together for the good of the children and the community that we serve. MASB is a quality organization that offers significant learning opportunities for board members (and superintendents) to grow the relationship that’s necessary to maintain a quality working relationship. MASB is an extremely valuable resource for school districts, board members and superintendents. The courses, conferences, workshops and the many other services that are provided to member districts are extremely beneficial in these difficult and challenging times.

-Chris Wigent, superintendent, Wayne RESA

It’s my belief that our board’s membership with MASB provides invaluable resources and is an essential component for any board of education committed to self-improvement. Our board has benefitted from very informative board member education, outstanding legal counsel and MASB keeps us current on legislative action. Collectively, we thank you for these and many other services available to us. Your staff has always been eager to assist us with whatever our needs were and did so with kindness and caring. We're proud to be members of MASB and highly recommend membership to any school district not currently benefitting from all that MASB has to offer.

-Douglas S. Adams, board president, North Adams-Jerome Public Schools

MASB is an invaluable resource to my personal growth and development as a board member. MASB makes me a better school board member. The articles in MASB’s weekly newsletter are timely and very relevant to the challenges and issues that we face at the local level.

-Dennis O’Connor, treasurer, Novi Community Schools

The Watersmeet Township School District finds its membership with MASB a tool that is second to none. The legal advice, news articles and professionalism we receive every time we seek advice in any area of their expertise is priceless.

-George R. Peterson III, superintendent, Watersmeet Township School District

I value my MASB membership. I recall back when I was elected, I thought I would be able to fix all of the ills of the district. However, this wasn't the case. The hope that I have in the process is due to MASB teaching me through the 100-level courses. I implore any school board member to get in those courses as soon as possible. It’s a wealth of knowledge that’s waiting to be used. In short, the value that MASB gives me is what I strive for most, which is knowledge so that I may serve the children the best way possible.

-Isaac King, board member, Westwood Community School District

Brad Banasik, legal counsel for MASB, has been indispensable to our district for board meeting questions such as issues relating to the Open Meetings Act, Robert’s Rules of Order, policy and other legal procedures questions. We have the freedom to call, whether it’s me, or a board member, to have a question answered accurately and unbiased (and at no legal expense!). In addition, the legislative updates from MASB, and the newsletters are very important to keep us up-to-date in all matters. The CBA program is great for board members. 

-Patricia A. Cole, Ph.D., superintendent, Wyandotte Public Schools

Being a new board member last year I couldn't have made it through the year without the level one training, it was exactly what I needed to become a more grounded board member. The thing I value most is that MASB is always there for a quick answer or support whenever needed. 

-Amy Blades, board member, Plainwell Community Schools

Membership in MASB is valuable for several reasons. Primarily, they provide a platform for credentialing and legitimizing a district's authority to oversee its multimillion dollar budget, to develop policy that govern how a district will behave in the public, to set in judgment of disputes brought against the board by students, parents, employees, to set the district vision and hire the superintendent as prescribed by law. Secondarily, a membership in MASB moderates extremes in individual and group behaviors that represent the collective best practices of a wide range of tax-revenue methodologies, geographies, cultures and ethnicity. Finally, the platform provided by MASB provides an opportunity for districts or individuals to tactfully question practices and polices imposed by law that may become oppressive without entangling or disrupting the theme of public education that unites us as a culture.

-Henry Hatter, board member, Clio Area Schools

MASB to me is a wealth of information and support. The classes and training encourage my growth as a board member and allow networking opportunities with board members across the state. Information and answers are a phone call or e-mail away and always promptly answered. The legislative information, including information about the SOS (Save our Students, Schools and State) initiative, help board members dialog with legislators and legislative leaders. I love that you can also find MASB on Facebook and Twitter. I'm a fan and I love getting the instant updates from MASB.

-Debra Hancock, board member, Grand Blanc Community Schools

I love MASB because they are always able to answer questions board members have in a timely manner. Our superintendent in Manistee passed away last year and we called MASB for help and even though the person we called was deer hunting, he still found time to call us from the woods. That's dedication.

-Tom Williams, board president, Manistee Area Public Schools

MASB has been a tremendous resource to me in my 16 years as a board member. They're always up-to-date on everything from policy to legislation. They're merely a phone call away for any situation that may arise. They have the resources to get the best answer possible in the best interest of children in Michigan.

-Bette Bigsby, board member, Atherton Community Schools

Our members really bring a passion for students to the table. It amazes me time and again, no matter what bad news comes from the legislature, school board members across the state dig in and keep their focus on making sure their schools still keep the student first.

-Don Wotruba, deputy director

I admire our members’ dedication and selfless attitudes. We understand that our members are essentially working second jobs by serving on a school board. Regular and special board meetings, committee meetings and school related functions require a tremendous time commitment by our members, even before they consider participating in MASB activities. I’m always amazed by the number of board members who put their weekend activities on hold to attend our CBA classes and conferences, or who attend our evening classes or workshops after working eight hours during the day. And, this dedication isn’t self-serving. While many elected officials focus on making sure they get re-elected or moving to the next political office, our members serve in the interest of doing what is best for their school district, not themselves.

-Brad Banasik, legal counsel

I depend on and appreciate MASB especially for the readily available resources they provide to our district on a regular basis, i.e., board development, legal, governance. MASB was instrumental in helping to craft and implement our five-year strategic plan in a timely, methodical and well organized manner. They helped us to deliver a measurable, comprehensive outcome that will benefit our students and district for years to come.

-Kim Samuelson, board president, Lincoln Consolidated Schools

I appreciate the commitment of our members. Being a locally elected official is often a thankless job, but our members continue to embody what it means to live in a democratic society. It’s truly rewarding to come to work every day and experience this kind of dedication to a cause. Working in the communications department I know there’s a lot of negative news about schools, but our members continually remind me of the great things happening in our schools across the state.

– Sarah Ford, communications specialist

MASB provided a quality, comprehensive strategic planning process that was all-inclusive with a valuable community survey. The process and survey identified critical priorities that focused on student achievement. I’m confident that the process will move the district forward and help Lake Orion graduates make continued gains in student achievement. After meeting with the MASB team, we were confident they could deliver a superior service at an affordable cost—and they did just that.

-Ken Gutman, superintendent, Lake Orion Community Schools

I really enjoy the interactions I have with school board members. Not a day goes by that my phone doesn't ring with a question about pending legislation or what the legislature is up to. It's refreshing to know that so many board members across the state take an interest in what happens in our state Capitol.

-Peter Spadafore, assistant director of government relations

I became an instant fan of MASB when I became a new board member with Merrill Schools. I was the first female on their board and it was hard for the other board members to function as usual, with a female on board. MASB gave me good directives and confidence to proceed as a good board member, with the children and district's best interest in mind. MASB continues to be very important in my life keeping me informed and helping all districts and board members across the state to be the best they can be in these turbulent times.

-Ruth Coppens, board member, Saginaw ISD

The commitment and support from the MASB Board of Directors for my nearly 13 years as a staff member has resulted in a high level of enthusiasm for our work in serving board members throughout Michigan. While the board has provided strategic direction, I've always experienced total support for the ideas and initiatives we’ve introduced to achieve the goals the board has established. The board has led MASB into a culture shift that has motivated staff to achieving levels never before experienced.

-Olga Holden, director of leadership services

From Grant Township School District #2 near Copper Harbor in the north, to Mason Consolidated Schools near Monroe in the south, over 4,000 women and men give much time and great effort to the children of Michigan through service on local school boards. The past few years have seen increasingly tough financial and other challenges that you, our members, have faced with courage and grace, always keeping the best educational interests of our young people at the forefront. It’s satisfying, gratifying and a great privilege to work with and for such dedicated and committed volunteers.

- Bob Ebersole, assistant legal counsel/director of policy services

MASB’s online survey service was a great opportunity to engage community members in the future direction of Richmond Community Schools. The service and personal attention we received from the MASB team was exceptional and exceeded all expectations. The results allowed us to really understand what’s important to the community and focus on what matters. Through MASB’s customized process and the way they handled all of the details, Richmond immediately realized savings in both financial and personnel time. The follow-up and recommendations were excellent and I recommend that districts use MASB’s survey service to gain the invaluable data needed to make informed decisions. We couldn't have asked for a better organization to guide us through this process.

-Chuck Hazekamp, superintendent, Richmond Community Schools

I appreciate board members because they represent the 1.6 million children whose voice is too small to be heard. Board members continue to forge ahead in spite of politics, challenging financial times and declining enrollment. So why do it? They do it because they genuinely care. I especially appreciate board members who serve in underrepresented and at-risk districts – this is no easy task.

-Deborah Keys, director of conference/exhibit planning & business affiliates

Over the past year I’ve had the pleasure of working with local boards of education from the farthest point west in the Upper Peninsula to the farthest point south in both southeastern and southwestern lower Michigan as well as points in between. I’m continually impressed with the dedication and passion that local board members bring to their position. I view them as truly servant leaders who put children and education first during these most difficult of times.

-Richard Dunham, director of superintendent search services

I value my MASB membership because it has allowed me to develop my abilities as a board member to serve my community at an unprecedented level. It truly allows board members across the state to stay up to date with Michigan’s ever-changing educational environment.

-Michael Whalen, board member, Mt. Morris Consolidated Schools

MASB is a high quality organization that educates individual board members and entire board’s of education on their role in a child’s education.

-Bill Chilman, superintendent, Beal City