Friday, Oct. 24     8:30 – 10 a.m.

Carol Dweck’s work has homed in on the concepts of “fixed” and “growth” mindset, but as leaders, we must venture further with these ideas to foster the learning opportunities our students and schools' merit. It’s not only about what we know but also how we utilize that knowledge. Change is ever-present, and with the advent of new avenues for learning and evolution through technology, such as AI and emerging technologies, it’s crucial that we are proactive not just in response to changes but also in creating change.

In this keynote session, George will explore the principles and characteristics of “The Innovator’s Mindset”—a concept detailed in his book of the same name—and present compelling reasons why this mindset is essential for educators to cultivate outstanding learning opportunities, not only for their students but also for themselves.

Known for their emotional depth and humor, George’s presentations engage audiences on a level that resonates both intellectually and emotionally. This message is not just for the moment; it’s crafted to stay with you, affecting genuine change that extends far beyond the talk itself.

George Couros, Leadership Consultant and Author

The best way to deal with change is to initiate the change we want to see in our schools and classrooms. As we ask our staff to create innovative learning opportunities for all students, what are the core elements that we need to create and sustain to support teachers in their approach, and why does it matter? How do we bring out the voices of our learners to truly personalize education in a way that helps them find a pathway to success that is meaningful to them? In this personalized and conversational session, George will follow up the keynote and will model and share strategies and ideas on ways that we can truly innovate inside the box and create practices that don’t add to the already full plates of teachers, but help us think differently about how we utilize our time in schools.

George Couros, Leadership Consultant, Author and Keynote Speaker

Learn how to lead effectively without the president title or responsibilities. Leadership isn’t defined by position! Join this highly interactive, hands-on session to learn strategies for leading from any board position. We’ll unpack real-life examples as we explore what true leadership means. Both experienced and newly elected board members will leave encouraged and empowered to make a difference from any seat.

Susan Baskett, MBA, Trustee, Ann Arbor Public Schools and Deb Macon, Consultant, MASB

Across the nation, female leaders are shaping the future of education, guiding school districts with vision, resilience, empathy and collaboration. This session highlights the dynamic partnership between female superintendents and board presidents as they navigate challenges, drive innovation and foster inclusive learning environments. Through shared experiences, leadership strategies and actionable insights, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how women in these pivotal roles are transforming both schools and communities. Join us for an inspiring discussion about leadership, advocacy and the power of working together to create lasting impact in education.

Kristin Perkowski, Superintendent, and Nichol Stack, Board President, Grand Haven Area Public Schools

For many students, school is more than just a place to learn—it’s their best chance at a brighter future. As someone who grew up navigating challenges as an at-risk student and ended up as an Assistant Superintendent, I know how much that opportunity matters. This session invites school board members to consider how artificial intelligence, when used thoughtfully, can help ensure that every student—regardless of background—has access to high-quality, personalized learning experiences. This isn’t about replacing educators—it’s about empowering them!

Aaron Baughman, AI Learning Strategist, Michigan Virtual

The stigmatization of Career & Technical Education (CTE) and the misconceptions that surround it are contributing factors to CTE’s varied success throughout the nation and have led some to question the efficacy of technical education in the school system. In this session, we will explore how CTE remains not just relevant but also prepares students with the competencies needed to find success in today's world and tomorrow.

George Kacan, Regional Director, Wightman; Eric Stewart, Assistant Superintendent, Kalamazoo RESA

Election night is over, and your board will welcome one or more new members come January. Is there an onboarding plan in place that focuses on critical information, procedures and relationships to prepare newly elected trustees for their role? This session will ensure everyone—from newly elected trustees to current board members to superintendents and administrators —is ready to work together as a cohesive team.

Kelli Horst, Consultant, MASB

Strong working relationships maximize results for kids. A strong governance team operates with effective communication, strong relationships, respect and the ability to disagree in a civilized manner. This session will provide a specific set of methods and tools that can be used by any district to build relationships and foster an environment that provides the most accurate and open information from the superintendent and the administrative team to allow the board of education to make informed decisions for kids.

Matthew Montange, Ed.S., Superintendent, and Shannon Zabaldo, Board President, Plainwell Community Schools

This session highlights the Short-Term Adolescent Youth Prevention Academy (SAYPA), a day program designed for adjudicated youth ages 11–18 who struggle to succeed in traditional school environments. Through a blend of academics, nutrition, treatment services and life-skills training, SAYPA equips young people with tools for accountability, maturity and responsible citizenship while strengthening family support systems. Participants will learn how the program reduces out-of-home placements, supports parents and helps youth transition successfully back into their schools and communities—all with the goal of lowering recidivism and restoring youth to positive community roles.

Spencer Byrd, Superintendent, Cheboygan Schools; Honorable Daryl Vizina, Cheboygan County Probate Court

The graduation requirements in Michigan are often interpreted as a list of courses that all students must take. That interpretation of the Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC) is far from its original intent, and even farther from the truth. The flexibility built into the MMC promotes unlimited pathways to a diploma, allowing students to meet or waive credit requirements in personalized ways. Imagine a high school where each student builds an individualized pathway to graduation, one that is rich in relevant coursework and experiences aligned with future goals. Let’s reimagine high school together!

Rashell Bowerman, Instructional Consultant, Michigan Department of Education

Did you know that only 1.5% of the superintendents are Black women? Come hear the challenges as reflected upon by Ann Arbor's newest superintendent and its longest-serving school board member. Both are Black women from a diverse and successful school district who have demonstrated leadership through some very demanding circumstances. Join in the interactive exchange as they offer resources on how to make your school district more welcoming to candidates of color.

Susan Baskett, MBA, Trustee and Jazz Parks, Superintendent, Ann Arbor Public Schools

AI is already transforming teaching, learning and school operations. This session offers a clear, jargon-free introduction to the current and emerging uses of AI in K–12 education—from instructional tools to data analysis and personalized learning. Explore the ethical, legal and policy considerations that come with AI adoption, and learn how to balance innovation with responsibility. You’ll leave with a better understanding of AI’s potential and how to shape thoughtful, value-driven policies.

Aaron Baughman, AI Strategist, Michigan Virtual

Committees have long played a significant role in school boards. They offer benefits like focused expertise, efficient decision-making, community involvement and enhanced accountability. However, challenges such as bureaucracy, resource demands and potential misalignment with board objectives can limit their effectiveness. This session will wrestle with the question of the necessity and value of committees by investigating factors such as size, resources and the clarity of roles. You’ll leave with practical insights to help your board determine when committees strengthen governance—and when they may hold it back.

Michael Rochholz, Consultant, MASB

The 2026 election cycle may feel far away, but the groundwork starts today. This session will spotlight key steps boards can take now—from community engagement and communication strategies to policy preparation and candidate development—to ensure readiness, stability and success when election season arrives.

Debbie Stair, M.N.M.L., Assistant Director of Leadership Development, MASB

Barbara Roethler, Director of Communications; Paul Salah, Ed.D., Superintendent; Thomas Wiseman, Board President, Huron Valley School District

School board decisions about facilities have a lasting impact on student learning and safety. This session explores how early, collaborative planning with curriculum, facilities, design and safety teams leads to smarter, safer school designs. Learn how exploring design options before a bond campaign can build community trust and support.

Nick Angel, Ed.D., Superintendent, Grass Lake Community Schools; Rob Atkins, President, Kingscott; Sara Melton, Ed.S., Senior Learning Designer, Fielding International

Sooner or later, your school board will have a vacancy. This session will cover the law, common procedures and specific issues related to filling a school board vacancy. The content will prepare you for the unexpected "I'm resigning, effective immediately" declaration by a member of your school board.

Brad Banasik, J.D., Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy, MASB

As we continue to navigate turbulent times, how do we strengthen and maintain the bond within the team of eight? Districts across the state have faced tremendous turnover among both board members and superintendents. Looking ahead, we will lead our districts through educator shortages, a looming recession, and polarization around our most crucial work of supporting social-emotional learning. This session will focus on sharing one district’s systems and strategies for developing and maintaining a crucially important team of eight.

Heidi Kattula, Ed.D., Superintendent, and Mike Reid, Board President, East Grand Rapids Public Schools

Effective mental health services, accessible in all schools. Thanks to public and private funding, TRAILS is moving toward that vision and currently supporting more than 1500 schools in Michigan. This session provides an overview of the TRAILS program, and how it equips school leaders and staff with training and resources to deliver evidence-based mental health programming to students across a multi-tiered support framework. Learn how our tiered supports improve student well-being which impacts their success in school and life. Join us for a fun, informative and engaging session.

Lauren Kazee, MSW, VP of National Partnerships, TRAILS

Saturday, Oct. 25     8:30 – 10 a.m.

General Session: Leading Through Complexity: Strengthening Trust and Decision-Making

Mounting challenges to civic unity, economic uncertainty and political pressures are each making local leadership increasingly challenging. The work of local governance—navigating conflict, engaging stakeholders and fostering confidence in decisions—is more crucial than ever. Every choice shapes the stability and future of the community.

Matt Lehrman, Managing Director & Co-Founder, Social Prosperity Partners

Saturday, Oct. 25     12:15 – 1 p.m.

Get the most up-to-date information about the upcoming elections, what to expect on your ballot, and all the legislative happenings in Lansing and Washington, D.C.

Jennifer Smith, Director of Government Relations and Brenda Pilgrim, Assistant Director of Government Relations, MASB

Saturday, Oct. 25     2:30 – 3:15 p.m.

Closing General Session: Choose Your Own Adventure

Every choice shapes the story. In this interactive closing session, you’ll chart the path and connect with fellow leaders as you navigate real-world scenarios and decide what happens next in your story. Expect lively discussion, fresh ideas, and a little fun as we close our time together.

MacKenzie Feldpausch, M.A., Education Programming Manager

Join an inspiring storytelling panel featuring accomplished female superintendents and board presidents as they candidly share experiences, challenges, victories and invaluable lessons from their leadership journeys. This engaging discussion will provide authentic insights, practical advice and guidance for current and aspiring educational female leaders who are committed to equity, excellence and strong governance.

Sandra Dukhie, Board President and Camille Hibbler, Superintendent, Ferndale Public Schools; Anisha Hannah, Ed.D., Board President and Kimberly Leverette, Ed.D., Interim Superintendent, Pontiac School District; Lauren Christenson, Board President and Monica Merritt, Ed.D., Superintendent, Plymouth Canton Community Schools

In this interactive session, participants will engage with Maxwell’s Leadership Game to enhance their leadership skills and foster stronger collaboration within their school boards. Through reflective exercises and dynamic discussions, attendees will explore key leadership principles such as influence, communication and growth. Leave with actionable strategies to build trust, strengthen team dynamics, and drive positive change that aligns with the mission and vision of their school district.

Tennille Woodward, Ed.D., Lead Learner, GrowLeadEmpower LLC

Board members are faced with complex decisions that shape their schools and communities. Imagine if AI could help lighten that load while sharpening your critical thinking along the way. In this session, you’ll learn how AI can act as your clerk to tackle routine tasks, your colleague to weigh decisions and play out scenarios, and your coach to prompt deeper reflection and growth. Walk away with actionable prompts, strategies, and tools to lead confidently.

Karle Delo, AI Strategist, Michigan Virtual

This session will tell the powerful story of how Wolverine Community Schools turned dysfunction into success through the application of MASB training and best practices. Attendees will hear firsthand how the board’s commitment to understanding and respecting Board/Superintendent Roles and Responsibilities, continuous learning and effective policy implementation led to unprecedented student growth, dramatic teacher retention gains, leadership stability, community support, and financial transformation.

Eric Bardo, President; Matthew Baughman, Superintendent, Wolverine Community Schools

This session will provide participants with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate Grants.gov, the official website for finding and applying for federal grants. Attendees will learn how to effectively search for relevant grant opportunities, understand eligibility requirements and identify key components of successful grant applications.

Brenda Pilgrim, Assistant Director of Government Relations, MASB

Derek Gottlieb, Senior Research Advisor, School Perceptions; Jeremy Pach, Superintendent, Bark River-Harris Schools

School boards play a critical role in shaping the success and stability of their superintendent. This session will provide board members with practical strategies to foster a strong, lasting leadership partnership. Topics include establishing clear contracts and salary schedules, supporting ongoing professional growth, strengthening board–superintendent relationships, setting effective communication norms, and understanding both the legal requirements and best practices for evaluation. Participants will leave with actionable insights to ensure their superintendent is supported, effective, and positioned for long-term success.

Shawn Bishop, Ed.D., Deputy Executive Director; Tina Kerr, Ph.D., Executive Director, Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators

Are your board meetings out of control? Do board members fight at the table? Are members of the public unruly? Anecdotes and specific mitigation strategies will be discussed to help keep focus on governance during your public meetings.

Kristen Fauson, Ph.D., President; CJ Michaud, Treasurer; Maggie Terryn, Vice President, Forest Hills Public Schools

This session will walk you through how the Livonia Public Schools Board of Education and Superintendent foster teamwork for highly effective board governance. Examples will be shared on how to form a collaborative team that works to create an environment that supports student success.

Karen Bradford, President; Colleen Burton, Trustee; Crystal Frank, Vice President; Liz Jarvis, Trustee; Mark Johnson, Trustee; Dave MacFarland, Trustee; Andrea Oquist, Superintendent, Livonia Public Schools

Wondering how your board and superintendent can get regular student input on hot topics like cell phone use, AI, grading practices and course offerings? One option is to form a dedicated Student Advisory Council that meets regularly. Learn how one district has attracted over 30 high school students to serve in this role and how these students have helped the administration and board better meet student needs.

Josey Ballenger, Board of Education; John VanWagoner II, Ph.D., Superintendent; Student Panel, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Traditional metrics don’t tell the whole story. This session challenges school leaders and board members to think differently about what postsecondary readiness and success look like. Highlighting one Early College’s journey, attendees will learn how to center equity, foster student agency and develop partnerships that provide meaningful college credit and career readiness while students are still in high school.

Jonathon Marowelli, Ed.S., President and Superintendent, Jackson Preparatory & Early College; Daniel Phelan, Ph.D., President, Jackson College

Ready to build bridges? In this session, we will explore and practice how to foster trust, increase collaboration and create effective partnerships through the MiFamily Engagement Framework principles and relational leadership practices. This highly interactive session will guide participants through strategies and tools to engage family and community partners in meaningful and high-impact ways to enhance overall student success

Angela Brigham, M.Ed., Region 4 MiFamily Engagement Coordinator, Ottawa Area ISD; Al Thomas, Family Engagement Consultant, MiLEAP

Follow the journey of Mason Public Schools as they utilize intentional talent and team development to invest in their district culture. From the board to the bus garage, everyone has a role in building a culture by design, whether through tool investment or team development. Learn how Mason’s unique partnership with Humanex Ventures’ consulting team and scientific tools have madea distinctive mark in culture growth, and how this can apply in your district.

Steve Duane, Vice President; Gary Kinzer, Ed.D., Superintendent, Mason Public Schools; Matt Munson, Client Development, Humanex Ventures

Keynote presenter Matt Lehrman facilitates a dynamic discussion where attendees share challenges and exchange practical advice. Come ready to speak openly and explore ways to persevere through tough times.

Matt Lehrman, Managing Director & Co-Founder, Social Prosperity Partners

In this session, James Tyler, who serves as both a K12 Technology Director at Niles Community Schools and Board Treasurer at Watervliet Public Schools, discusses common policy adoptions, what they mean and the challenges AI poses to school districts.

James Tyler, Director of Technology, Niles Community Schools

Curious how a Board Self-Assessment really works? In this interactive session, a school board will demonstrate a facilitated discussion based on its own assessment results. You’ll see the process in action—how boards reflect on strengths, identify growth areas and chart a path forward together. Walk away with a clear sense of how the tool can spark meaningful conversations and drive continuous improvement on your own board.

Jessica Ellis, Kati Hartma, Cindi Immonen, Patrick Marietti, Darwin Morgan, Dennis Myers, Andrea Watt, Clarenceville Board of Education; Scott Morrell, MASB Consultant

Setting policy for the school district is a critical function of every school board. Board policies affect every aspect of school operations and have an equally widespread impact on individuals, including the administration, staff, students, parents and the community in general. While compliance with state and federal law is a priority, effective board policies must also be straightforward, well-organized and structured in a way to permit efficient implementation. This session will provide invaluable guidance for developing clear, concise policies while avoiding common pitfalls, such as policies that are burdensome, disorganized and confusing. Thrun attorneys will cover “best practices” in general and introduce a simplified and streamlined approach to ensuring that the district’s policy manual remains up to date.

Cathleen M. Dooley, Associate, Thrun Law Firm

As healthcare costs continue to rise, districts face increasing challenges in providing competitive benefits while managing financial sustainability. Join us to explore key cost drivers, including the impact of specialty drugs, the rise in mental health claims, and broader industry trends affecting health insurance pricing. Gain insights into the evolving benefits landscape and strategies to address these challenges while supporting employee well-being.

Casey Kilcherman, Senior Account Manager; Kyle Koch, Employee Benefits Sales Manager, SET SEG

The threat landscape facing K-12 educational institutions has grown dramatically in recent years, with cybercriminals increasingly targeting schools due to perceived vulnerabilities and valuable data. In response to this growing risk, there are initiatives and solutions designed to proactively defend against the most common and dangerous cyber threats while ensuring the safety of student and staff data, maintaining operational continuity, and upholding public trust. This session will explore three of these initiatives and why they are important to implement within your organization. Investing in cybersecurity is not optional anymore—it is a critical necessity for the protection of our students, staff, and community.

Damian Koob, MS-ISM, Director of Technology Services, Van Buren ISD

This session will walk attendees through the essential coordination needed between school boards and communications teams during important events. Whether it's a crisis, community controversy or change in leadership, how we communicate (internally and externally) shapes trust and outcomes. Attendees will leave with a roadmap for clarity on board and PR roles, numerous examples of effective communication partnerships in practice, and practical tools to apply immediately.

Rick Dernberger, Vice President; Brandy Navetta, Director of Communications and Marketing, Zeeland Public Schools

Fraud prevention starts at the top, and the school board plays a pivotal role in setting the tone. While audits are important, they don’t catch every risk. This session breaks down the board’s responsibilities, where audits help (and don’t), and key policy best practices to strengthen internal controls. Attendees will leave with actionable steps to enhance oversight, recognize red flags, and foster a culture of accountability.

Sherrie Blankenship, CPA, Principal; Bethany Verble, CPA, CFE, Senior Manager, Maner Costerisan

In today’s climate, board meetings can quickly shift from routine business to political flashpoints. Strong, proactive communication between the superintendent and board is critical to navigating these challenges. This session will showcase how Dearborn Public Schools—the third largest district in Michigan—builds a unified team approach through tools like incident reports, weekly updates and structured meeting protocols. Learn practical strategies you can apply in your own district to prepare, plan and communicate effectively, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Joanne Harris, Administrative Assistant; Glenn Maleyko, Ph.D., Superintendent; Irene Watts, Vice President, Dearborn Public Schools

This session uses Flint Community Schools' transformation as a case study to explore how authentic partnerships between boards, superintendents and communities can drive innovation and shared accountability. In response to the Flint water crisis and COVID-19, stakeholders co-created bold solutions, most notably a reimagined educational campus that integrates early childhood through middle school learning. Flint's story offers a powerful model of rethinking education through deep, community-driven collaboration.

Joyce Ellis-McNeal, Ed.D., President; Kevelin Jones, Superintendent, Flint Community Schools; Ja’Nel Jamerson, Ed.D., Chief Executive Officer, Flint Center for Educational Excellence

Attendees will learn how three districts work together to manage a dynamic special education program with 17 classrooms across the three districts. The three district collaboration has also led to shared programming for Dual Enrollment and Early Middle College opportunities, a Transportation Consortium, and combined purchasing efforts which have saved the districts tens of thousands of dollars.

Doug Busch, Ed.D., Superintendent, Fenton Area Schools; Russ Ciesielski, Ed.S., Linden Community Schools; Julie Williams, Ed.S., Superintendent, Lake Fenton Community Schools

What can happen in a single year? This session will focus on how Kalamazoo Public Schools made dramatic gains in student achievement, attendance, and graduation rates, and improved student behavior for students who have historically struggled to find success during the course of one school year. By aligning the efforts of the superintendent, school board, district departments and community partners—and consistently communicating priorities to students, staff, parents and the public—Kalamazoo Public Schools fostered a renewed sense of pride and achievement across the district, including historically low-performing schools. Highlights include improving the African American Male 4-year graduation rate by 20% in one school year.

TiAnna Harrison, President; Darrin Slade, Ed.D., Superintendent, Kalamazoo Public Schools

With educator shortages impacting school leaders, MASSP’s Strengthening Leaders program offers a research-based mentoring and coaching experience. Leveraging 27h grant funding, our integrated approach combines cohort-based induction with personalized 1:1 support, drawing on a robust leadership framework and best practices to build essential skills, strengthen retention and meet state mentoring requirements. This framework empowers school boards to attract, train and retain effective administrators, meet new state mentoring mandates, and address critical shortages.

Michelle Blaszczynski, Director of Leadership Induction and Development; Tom Lietz, Ph.D., Associate Director of Training and Development, Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals

The 2025 edition of the Michigan Council of School Attorneys Fall Conference includes sessions for school board members and other school officials that focus on trending legal issues impacting school districts. The MCSA Board of Directors invites you to attend this unique conference to learn about the latest updates and details on complying with school-related laws and court decisions from school law attorneys who work directly with boards of education and their superintendents.