New Beginnings

Patrice McCarthy Executive Director & General Counsel, CABE

Many people see January 1 as a time of new beginnings, but for board of education members, superintendents, educators, school bus drivers, students, parents and CABE staff the new school year is an annual milestone of new beginnings. The summer months brought several opportunities to engage in professional development, and we can now apply our new learning in the board room or the classroom.

The executive directors of school board associations around the country met last month and shared ideas on many topics, including orientation of new board members, educator recruitment and retention, dealing with controversial issues, and supporting prospective superintendents. (I learned that in Tennessee the superintendent, or “director of schools”, is only required to have a baccalaureate degree!) While we are already addressing all of these issues in Connecticut, it is always helpful to hear other perspectives as we work to continuously enhance our support to school boards.

CABE’s annual Summer Leadership Conference was another learning opportunity filled with networking and new learning. Attendees were engaged in exchanging ideas, renewing friendships and making new connections from the moment they arrived, and as they lingered after dinner.

Board members and superintendents serving as presenters provided their insights on the implications of AI for school boards and dealing with controversial issues. Table top discussions focused on emerging legislative issues, communications and policy issues.

Board chairs, many of whom participate in CABE’s board chair check in via Zoom, had the opportunity to engage with their colleagues in person. Student voice was heard loud and clear with a panel of three students providing insights on their educational experience and recommendations to support student leadership.

CABE’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee also met and identified a robust set of initiatives to support school boards in meeting the needs of all students, including the recruitment and retention of minority educators, curriculum enhancements, and helping communities understand why diversity matters.

The opportunity to participate in learning experiences at the national and state levels is rewarding. We have not only gained new insights, but have made valuable connections that we can utilize in the coming year.

I will join board members and superintendents in applying my new learning to support school boards as they focus on what is essential for student success. Let’s approach the new school year filled with the excitement and energy of our youngest students who will enter school for the first time!