MASB held its annual Delegate Assembly on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at the Lansing Center. Voting delegates from more than 195 districts in 53 counties attended, along with many nonvoting members. This year saw a record number of counties represented, increasing the geographical diversity of the assembly, a positive trend for your organization.
This annual event allows MASB members to consider, debate and adopt resolutions that affect public education and Michigan’s schools. As a member-driven organization, MASB delegates, selected by their school boards, have an important voice in shaping those resolutions and, therefore, the direction of the Association.
The evening started with an address from Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, including a year in review, as well as a short legislative update highlighting legislation passed this year and this year’s School Aid Budget. Two bylaw changes, eleven amendments to resolutions, and one new resolution were put forward by the MASB Resolutions and Bylaws Committee.
Ten of the recommended amendments to resolutions were adopted as proposed by the Resolutions and Bylaws Committee. These changes are outlined in the 2024 Delegate Assembly Handbook. One resolution, G-9.10 School Bus Safety, was further amended by the delegates to include encouragement for districts to “implement school bus security and safety cameras and recording equipment that incorporate the appropriate viewing angles to enhance student safety and adequate recording of possible interior and exterior incidents.” The amendment was adopted, and the resolution was passed overwhelmingly by the Assembly. Resolution G-9.40 Healthful Nutrition drew a debate over whether to include healthy or healthful; after debate on the resolution and proposed amendments, the resolution was adopted as proposed by the Committee.
The new resolution, G-9.30 Suicide Prevention and Education, was received with much support and appreciation for the Committee bringing this issue forward. One minor amendment was adopted, and the resolution was passed. Finally, the two bylaw proposals were passed as presented by the Committee.
The Delegate Assembly concluded with a resolution of appreciation to the Resolutions and Bylaws Committee and a chance to ask questions of the MASB Executive Director and President. Then, all members were invited to join Executive Director Don Wotruba and MASB Board President James Johnson for a toast to MASB’s 75th anniversary before heading to the Welcome Reception and Grand Opening of the Exhibit Show for refreshments and a chance to talk with vendors.
Thank you to all who served on the 2023-2024 Resolutions and Bylaws Committee, proposed amendments, engaged in debate, served as voting delegates, supported those voting delegates, and attended the Assembly.
If you have ideas you would like incorporated into MASB’s resolutions and bylaws, please discuss them with your board, as they can be submitted for consideration beginning in the new year to be brought to the 2025 Delegate Assembly. As always, please feel free to contact us with any questions. Your Association is stronger with all your voices.