2019 VSBA Annual Convention: Full Schedule

10:00am PST

Education Foundation Workshop

The Virginia School Boards Association would like to invite you to a workshop for school board members, education foundation professionals, volunteers and those interested in starting an education foundation in your school division. The workshop, held in conjunction with the VSBA Annual Convention, will feature education foundation representatives from Virginia discussing how to work with a foundation board and partnering with the community. Additionally, attendees will discuss the important steps necessary in beginning a foundation. There will also be a chance to share best practices from your education foundation and pick up some great tools that you can use.

Tuesday November 19, 2019 10:00am - 3:30pm PST
Allegheny

Education Foundation Workshop

9:30am PST

Paddling Upstream in a Public School Canoe

The truth is that public schools are better than they have ever been— so why the national negativity surrounding them? Why do so many from the State House to the White House, feel justified in criticizing public schools? Most of these representatives are caring, patriotic, well-meaning individuals who strangely, when assembled, become negative about public schools. What drives this misguided malady? In this presentation Dr. Draper pushes aside the branches of evil and leads you on a journey to the root of the problem. It’s not low test scores or dwindling discipline or partisan politics or decaying families. You’ll be surprised at the public myth that feeds negativity about public schools.

Moderator

Tyrone Foster

(Bristol City), President, VSBA

Speakers

Dr. John Draper

National Consultant, NSPRA

John Draper has enjoyed a wide variety of experiences in his lifetime. He has been a newspaper reporter, construction worker, jailor, actor, timber buyer, musician, small business owner, choir director, soccer coach, Sunday school teacher, and door-to-door aluminum siding salesman... Read More →

Wednesday November 20, 2019 9:30am - 12:00pm PST
Tidewater

Early Bird Session

10:00am PST

Workshop for Student School Board Representatives

For the past fourteen years, the Virginia School Boards Association has hosted the ever-popular student school board representative session at the annual convention. This workshop will feature various topics, including school board policy input, advocacy, leadership, and serving as a student representative.

Wednesday November 20, 2019 10:00am - 1:30pm PST
Allegheny

Student School Board Representative Workshop

11:00am PST

VSBA/COSA Meeting

The VSBA COSA Annual Conference meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 20, from 11:00 am – 3:00 p.m. in the Cascades Room at the Williamsburg Woodlands Conference Center in Williamsburg. Please plan to join your colleagues to hear about current topics of interest to school board lawyers. CLE credit will be applied for by the VSBA. At the conclusion of the program a brief business meeting will be held.

Wednesday November 20, 2019 11:00am - 3:00pm PST
Woodlands Cascades

VSBA/COSA Meeting

12:00pm PST

Awards Luncheon (invited attendees)

The Award of Distinction is the highest level in the VSBA Boardmanship Academy. This reception is to honor those who have earned at least 84 credits over the last two years. Congratulations to the 115 individuals who have achieved the highest Academy level and we hope to see more next year! Attendees will hear from Scott Albrecht, VSBA Past-President and member of the Manassas City School Board.

Speakers

Scott Albrecht

(Manassas City), Past President, VSBA

Sponsors

VMDO

Wednesday November 20, 2019 12:00pm - 1:45pm PST
Piedmont Room

Awards Luncheon (Invitation Only)

12:00pm PST

Annual Convention Notebook Pickup

Sponsors

DLR Group

Wednesday November 20, 2019 12:00pm - 5:30pm PST
Registration Lobby

2:00pm PST

General Session featuring Dr. Luvelle Brown

The Virginia School Boards Association would like to invite you to attend the Opening
Session of the 2019 VSBA Annual Convention.
The Loving Journey to Equity and Excellence
This session will explore strategic processes and actions involving self-reflection, conflict, and policy shifts that produce academic achievement for all students.

Dr. Luvelle Brown will also serve as moderator for a student panel who will be discussing education in Virginia from the perspective of our students. Students will be answering questions in the key categories of equity, school safety, and more.

Speakers

Dr. Luvelle Brown

Superintendent, Ithaca City School Distric, New York

Dr. Luvelle Brown has served as Superintendent of the Ithaca City School District (ICSD) in Ithaca, New York since January 2011. During his tenure in Ithaca, the ICSD has experienced unprecedented levels of success. Dr. Brown has received various awards and recognitions. The 2017... Read More →

Sponsors

Sodexo

Wednesday November 20, 2019 2:00pm - 4:00pm PST
Colony

General Session

4:30pm PST

Blue Ridge Regional Meeting

Wednesday November 20, 2019 4:30pm - 5:00pm PST
Tidewater D

Regional Meeting

4:30pm PST

Central Regional Meeting

Wednesday November 20, 2019 4:30pm - 5:00pm PST
Piedmont C

Regional Meeting

4:30pm PST

Eastern Regional Meeting

Wednesday November 20, 2019 4:30pm - 5:00pm PST
Tidewater A

Regional Meeting

4:30pm PST

Northeastern Regional Meeting

Wednesday November 20, 2019 4:30pm - 5:00pm PST
Allegheny

Regional Meeting

4:30pm PST

Southern Regional Meeting

Wednesday November 20, 2019 4:30pm - 5:00pm PST
Liberty

Regional Meeting

4:30pm PST

Southside Regional Meeting

Wednesday November 20, 2019 4:30pm - 5:00pm PST
Tidewater B

Regional Meeting

4:30pm PST

Southwest Regional Meeting

Wednesday November 20, 2019 4:30pm - 5:00pm PST
Piedmont A/B

Regional Meeting

4:30pm PST

Tidewater Regional Meeting

Wednesday November 20, 2019 4:30pm - 5:00pm PST
Tidewater C

Regional Meeting

4:30pm PST

Valley Regional Meeting

Wednesday November 20, 2019 4:30pm - 5:00pm PST
Patriot

Regional Meeting

5:00pm PST

President's Reception

This event will provide an opportunity for attendees to network after the VSBA Regional Meetings. Refreshments will be provided. Attendee spouses/guests are welcome to attend this event.
Sponsored by VACORP

Sponsors

VACORP

Wednesday November 20, 2019 5:00pm - 6:00pm PST
Virginia Room

Reception

8:15pm PST

Evening of Comedy and Music

Stop by the Colony Room to enjoy a relaxing evening of laughs and music with comedian Chad Thornsberry followed up by music stylings from a live DJ from Astro Entertainment. Chad’s unique comedic perspective awards audience the opportunity to laugh at the common, often unnoticed, occurrences in everyday life. Often referred to as a “great writer,” his straightforward style allows audiences to laugh with him and at him as they find the humor in themselves. With smart humor, in a conversational style, Chad has delighted audiences from the trailer park, throughout the Midwest and literally from coast to coast. His regular cruise ship shows take him around the world. This is a night you don’t want to miss.
Sponsored by RRMM and Successful innovations

Sponsors

RRMM

Successful Innovations

Wednesday November 20, 2019 8:15pm - 11:00pm PST
Colony

7:00am PST

VSBA 5K

Pick up materials for the run/walk beginning at 6:30 a.m. at a table near the start of the race, adjacent to the VSBA registration desk in the main entrance of the Williamsburg Lodge Conference Center. Race results and prizes will be announced and presented at 2:00 p.m. at the Quinn Evans Booth #61.

Sponsors

Ascent

Quinn Evans

VS America, Inc

Thursday November 21, 2019 7:00am - 7:30am PST
Williamsburg Lodge

8:00am PST

Breakfast

Sponsors

Benefit Plan Administrators

Thursday November 21, 2019 8:00am - 9:15am PST
Virginia Room

Breakfast

8:30am PST

Annual Convention Notebook Pickup

Sponsors

DLR Group

Thursday November 21, 2019 8:30am - 11:45am PST
Registration Lobby

8:45am PST

General Session featuring speaker Dr. Tim Hodges

The State of Our Schools: Public Opinion and Best Practices for Addressing the Challenges Facing Education

Preparing students for a successful future requires us to understand the opinions of key stakeholders, including students, educators, administrators, parents, employers and the broader community. Gallup has uncovered key areas of agreement as well as gaps in perceptions among these stakeholder groups. Leading with this information in mind will help our students be engaged in school today and hopeful about their role in a changing workplace for the future.

Moderator

R. Tyrone Foster

President, VSBA, Bristol City School Board

Speakers

Dr. Tim Hodges

Senior Consultant, Gallup

Thursday November 21, 2019 8:45am - 10:00am PST
Colony

General Session

10:00am PST

School Board Clerks Workshop

School Board Clerks will have the opportunity to:
· Attend ALL the VSBA Annual Convention general
sessions
· Get an overview of Access to Public Records & Meetings under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act
· Hear about the top 10 legal issues facing School Board Clerks
· And more!
This is a workshop you will not want to miss!

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:00am - 3:30pm PST
Woodlands

School Board Clerks Workshop

10:15am PST

2019 School Law Update

This session will bring you the most recent developments in school law at the state and federal levels, to include Title IX, school board authority, special education and more!

Moderator

Janet Turner-Giles

VSBA Member-At-Large, Nelson County School Board

Speakers

Bradford King

School Board Attorney, Sands Anderson

Bradford A. King has counseled and represented public school divisions for more than 20 years with the understanding that his clients’ successes directly affect their communities and constituents. He balances large-scale projects such as employee grievance proceedings, special education... Read More →

Nicole Cheuk

School Board Attorney, Sands Anderson

Nicole S. Cheuk offers comprehensive guidance to public school boards in all areas of representation, including special education, student discipline, personnel issues, policy, and procurement. Her experience working with a wide variety of school boards enables her to bring diverse... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:15am - 11:15am PST
Colony D-E

Breakout Session, Track: School Law

10:15am PST

Athletics in Five Years

In this presentation, VHSL Executive Director will discuss five issues that will shape the future of high school athletics.

Moderator

James Coleman

VSBA Southern Region Chair, Lynchburg City School Board

Speakers

Dr. Billy Haun

Executive Director, Virginia High School League

Dr. Billy Haun was a public school educator for 37 years. He served 17 years as a teacher and coach, 13 years as a middle and high school administrator, 5 years as Assistant Superintendent in Albemarle County Public Schools and almost 2 years as Assistant Superintendent for Instruction... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:15am - 11:15am PST
Tidewater C-D

Breakout Session

10:15am PST

Beyond Standardized Testing: How to Measure What Matters

Parents, the media and the taxpayers are quick to pass judgement on a school division according to its Standards of Learning pass rates. But we need to go beyond SOL pass rates to tell the whole story of student success. This presentation looks at ways to do this and the impact we can have when we tell our own story of academic success.

Moderator

Julie Bennington

Bedford County School Board

Speakers

Dr. Gregory C. Hutchings, Jr.

Superintendent of Schools, Alexandria City Public Schools

Dr. Gregory C. Hutchings, Jr. is a Class of ‘95 graduate of T.C. Williams High School. Prior to joining ACPS, he was a teacher, assistant principal, principal, middle school administrator at ACPS and superintendent in Ohio. He and his wife Cheryl have two school-age children who... Read More →

Helen Lloyd, APR

Director of Communications, Alexandria City Public Schools

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:15am - 11:15am PST
Piedmont C

Breakout Session

10:15am PST

Building and Sustaining Momentum for Your Graduate Profile

In this session, participants will learn more about key questions and protocols they can use to unpack their Portrait of a Graduate and how to use it as a critical component in the strategic planning process. Deep impact requires deep thinking, come learn from and share your insights with like-minded educational leaders committed to ensuring that all students are future ready.

Moderator

Iris Lane

VSBA Finance/Audit Committee Chair, Westmoreland County School Board

Speakers

Dr. Aaron Spence

Superintendent, Virginia Beach City Public Schools

After previously serving other communities as a teacher, administrator and Superintendent, Dr. Aaron Spence has served as Superintendent of Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) since June 2014, where he oversees the operation of 86 schools and the education of nearly 67,000... Read More →

Dr. Marc Bergin

Chief of Staff, Virginia Beach City Public Schools

Dr. Marc Bergin has served as the school division’s chief of staff since July 1st, 2015. His education career spans 29 years and includes prior service as the deputy superintendent of Moore County Schools in North Carolina, director of elementary education in Chesterfield County... Read More →

Dr. Lisa Banicky

Executive Director for Planning, Innovation, and Accountability, Virginia Beach City Public Schools

Dr. Lisa Banicky is the Executive Director of Planning, Innovation, and Accountability for Virginia Beach City Public Schools. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Millersville University and a Doctorate in the same field from the University of Delaware. With over 20... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:15am - 11:15am PST
Piedmont B

Breakout Session

10:15am PST

Equity in a Division Strategic Plan: Closing the Gaps

Attendees will learn from Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) about their model for equity and school improvement. The FCPS Strategic Plan emphasizes equity as a key outcome, reducing gaps between subgroups in all subject areas, and expanding access for students related to technology and advanced academic opportunities. Participants will hear how the work of equity has developed in the 10th largest school division in the nation, and will examine the “equity dashboard” which publicly shares data related to plan metrics. Attendees will learn how they can improve equity and improve results at the struggling schools in their district.

Moderator

Jannan Holmes

VSBA Northeastern Region Chair, Fredericksburg City School Board

Speakers

Dr. Brendan Menuey

Executive Principal for School Improvement, Fairfax County Public Schools

Dr. Frances Ivey

Deputy Superintendent, Fairfax County Public Schools

Dr. Frances Ivey is the Deputy Superintendent of Fairfax County Public School. Previously, she was the assistant superintendent for Region 5 and, before that, Cluster 5. She also served as the director for preK-12 curriculum and instruction in the Instructional Services Department... Read More →

Dr. Fabio Zuluaga

Region Assistant Superintendent, Fairfax County Public Schools

Dr. Fabio Zuluaga is the Region 2 Assistant Superintendent for Fairfax County Public Schools. Region 2 provides instructional and operation leadership to over 40,000 students in 45 schools. Dr. Zuluaga holds a bachelor's degree in Chemistry from the Nation Pedagogical University in... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:15am - 11:15am PST
Colony A-C

Breakout Session, Students and Schools in Challenging Environments

10:15am PST

Rethinking School: Preparing Rural Students for Success in the 21st Century

Discover how freedom, innovation and access to multiple pathways can help increase opportunities and prepare rural students for success in the 21st Century. The session will cover programs and initiatives from the U.S. Department of Education and elsewhere in Washington to rethink school. We will include a discussion of the Department’s recently released Rural Report, as well as recent legislation, policies and initiatives and how these can help expand opportunities for rural students.

Moderator

Rodney Jordan

VSBA President-Elect, Norfolk City School Board

Speakers

Michael Chamberlain

Special Assistant for Rural Outreach, U.S. Department of Education

Michael Chamberlain is Special Assistant for Rural Outreach in the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Rural and Community Engagement (ORCE), coordinating outreach efforts across the Department that focus on serving rural communities. ORCE spearheaded the work on the Department’s... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:15am - 11:15am PST
Tidewater A/B

Breakout Session, Students and Schools in Challenging Environments

10:15am PST

Superintendent Search Panel

Samantha Bosserman, VSBA Director of Communications & Board Development, explains the VSBA model used successfully in searches in 2018-19. Board members from Essex County, New Kent County and Colonial Heights will review their successful experiences using this VSBA service.

Moderator

Raymond Whitaker

VSBA Eastern Region Chair, Essex County School Board

Speakers

Sarah Barber

New Kent County School Board

Angie Woody

Colonial Heights School Board

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:15am - 11:15am PST
Patriot

Breakout Session, Track: Board Governance

10:15am PST

Supporting and Cultivating Learning Innovation in Goochland County

Goochland Education Foundation and Goochland County Public Schools have partnered to provide grants to teachers to enable relevant and engaging experiences for students that foster deeper learning. Our symposium provides a venue for teachers to share the details of their projects, lessons learned, and tips for replication. Learn how the grant program was administered by our non-profit partner, and how we organized a fun and relevant professional development forum for teachers.

Moderator

Beth Hardy

VSBA Member-At-Large, Goochland County School Board

Speakers

Dr. John Hendron

Director of Innovation & Strategy, Goochland County Public Schools

John Hendron was named by Converge Magazine as one of the 50 most innovative educators. In his role in Goochland, John is responsible for the division's strategic planning, award-winning instructional technology program, and oversees the school libraries.

Dr. Jeremy Raley

Superintendent, Goochland County Public Schools

Jeremy Raley is superintendent of Goochland County Public Schools and brought the vision for the grant program to fruition. Under his leadership, Goochland has been named the #1 division in the Richmond Metro-Region by Niche.com and participates in the Virginia is for Learners Innovation... Read More →

Cyndy Brown

Executive Director, Goochland Education Foundation

Cyndy Brown serves as the executive officer of the Goochland Education Foundation, which provides financial support to enhance the learning opportunities for students served by Goochland County Public Schools.

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:15am - 11:15am PST
Piedmont A

Breakout Session

10:15am PST

Turning Negative Heat into Positive Energy!

Change is hard—but organizations that don’t change are doomed to obsolescence. The challenge is for school leaders to design change so that staff members embrace and support it. There are 3 fundamental change elements to start right or get back on track quickly. Dr. Draper shares a simple but powerful template for leading effective change without losing your job!

Moderator

Scott Albrecht

(Manassas City), Past President, VSBA

Speakers

Dr. John Draper

National Consultant, NSPRA

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:15am - 11:15am PST
Allegheny

Breakout Session

10:15am PST

Workforce Readiness Award Winners

During the spring of 2019, the VSBA requested proposals for the second annual Excellence in Workforce Readiness Award. The award was established to showcase school divisions who are implementing innovative programs designed to prepare students for workforce readiness. In May, the programs underwent review by a five-judge panel and today three programs are being recognized for their Excellence in Workforce Readiness. Your students deserve the best that we as School Board members can provide in Workforce Readiness opportunities. VSBA is showcasing the following programs: Dinwiddie County-“#CTE4ALL”; Isle of Wight County-“Incorporating Authenticity into CTE Programs”; and Henrico County- “Setting the Bar High: CTE Letter of Intent Signing Day”. Come, see and learn what these school divisions have done and what your school division can also implement.

Moderator

James Meyer

VSBA Legislative Positions/Federal Relations Chair, Spotsylvania County School Board

Dr. Jeffery Smith

Superintendent, Hampton City Public Schools

Speakers

Michael Lombardo

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Isle of Wight County Schools

Mr. Michael Lombardo has served as the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction with Isle of Wight County Schools since 2017. With a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and Master of Science Degree in Educational... Read More →

Beverly Cocke

Henrico County School Board

Beverly Cocke is in her eighth year as a member of the Henrico County School Board, representing the Brookland District. She is a passionate and committed advocate for public schools. Having served on the Henrico County Career and Technical Education Business Council since she joined... Read More →

Carly Woolfolk

Director of Secondary Education, Dinwiddie County Public Schools

Mrs. Carly Woolfolk oversees and manages the Secondary Education and Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs for Dinwiddie County Public Schools. Mrs. Woolfolk supervises all 6-12 curriculum development and implementation, local assessment development, textbook and resource selection... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 10:15am - 11:15am PST
Liberty

Breakout Session

11:30am PST

AMPedUp! Magna Award Winning Accelerated Math Progressions for Under Represented Potential

This session will provide an overview of Winchester Public Schools comprehensive Equity Framework including AMPedUp! which was an NSBA 2019 Magna Award winning program for divisions under 5,000 students. Using data to identify under-represented minorities with potential for advanced math, students are invited to participate in a STEM program that builds teamwork among the students and helps them see themselves as successful in math. During enrichment time, students meet with a math teacher, working cooperatively to solve problems. One of the goals of AMPedUp! is to encourage all students in the program to take Algebra I in 8th grade which will allow them to take advanced math in high school.

Moderator

Rodney Jordan

VSBA President-Elect, Norfolk City School Board

Speakers

Carl Rush

Division Equity Specialist, Winchester Public Schools

Carl Rush earned his Bachelor and Master of Business Administration from Shenandoah University and is on track to complete his Master of Education in Educational Administration. Prior to becoming an educator, Mr. Rush gained several years of experience in the area of diversity, equity... Read More →

Eric Cornish

Math Teacher, Winchester Public Schools

Eric Cornish earned a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2005 and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Western New Mexico University in 2013. He has 11 years of teaching experience that includes 2 years in Malawi as a Peace Corps volunteer, 5 years in New Mexico within... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PST
Tidewater C-D

Breakout Session, Students and Schools in Challenging Environments

11:30am PST

Board Governance Panel

The Virginia School Boards Association offers customized training in various topics to assist with your work on your school governance team. Hear from a panel of board members who have participated in Board Governance training with the VSBA and how their school boards have used the training in their day to day work on the board.

Moderator

Paul Grinstead

VSBA Southwest Region Chair, Smyth County School Board

Speakers

Kerri Wilson

Consultant, VSBA

Samantha Bosserman

Director of Communications and Board Development, VSBA

Dr. JoWanda Rollins-Fells

Caroline County School Board

Kyra Cook

Williamsburg/James City County School Board

Dr. Stan Jones

Superintendent, Danville City Public Schools

Thursday November 21, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PST
Patriot

Breakout Session, Track: Board Governance

11:30am PST

Cyber Security 101

No organization is immune to the pervasive threat of cyber crime. Your security is only as strong as its weakest link. This is why it is imperative to have all employees educated on cyber risks. This workshop offers a basic introduction to the world of cyber security while focusing on practical steps for individuals and organizations to avoid being the victim of a cyber attack.

Moderator

Dawn Shelley

Spotsylvania County School Board

Speakers

Mike Rezac

Loss Control Consultant, VACORP

Mike began his career as a risk consultant with Federated Insurance where he assessed the exposures of commercial accounts and developed plans to control their risk. He was a field trainer before moving on to a position with ISO where he focused on property inspections and underwriting... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PST
Piedmont B

Breakout Session

11:30am PST

Integrating Secure 21st Century Learning Environments into 20th Century Buildings

We will explore the issues that many communities face in renovating buildings for tomorrow while overcoming some of the earlier design approaches that make managing and creating a secure place for learning a challenge. Introducing design elements that improve the safety of school sites and buildings while opening up to support student independence, collaboration, and community. This session seeks to share examples of how old buildings can be made new again in ways that are secure physically and experientially.

Moderator

Kathleen Beane

Richmond County School Board

Speakers

Roger Richardson

AIA, REFP, Principal Architect, Quinn Evans

Roger is a Principal at Quinn Evans Architects in the Richmond office and has centered his 40+ year career in school design, focusing on new and renovated public K-12 facilities. Roger has unparalleled experience in the analysis, planning, design, and delivery of educational facilities... Read More →

Erin Richardson

CID, IIDA, Associate, Quinn Evans

Erin has worked on a variety of new, renovation, and interior refurbishment projects, many of them for K12 clients, working in phases from Programming through Construction Administration. She is well-versed in the complexities of furniture and equipment packages, and has developed... Read More →

Allie Jarett

AIA, Project Architect, Quinn Evans

As a Project Architect, Allie brings her passion for the design of interactive spaces that foster creativity and learning that are seamlessly integrated throughout every stage of the project’s development. Allie has worked on numerous education projects throughout her career, focusing... Read More →

Donald Upperco

Executive Director of Operations, Spotsylvania County Public Schools

Mr. Upperco has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Richmond and a Masters of Education Administration degree from Virginia Tech. During his 33 years in the field of education, Don has served in a variety of capacities, including: high school principal, middle school... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PST
Liberty

Breakout Session

11:30am PST

Legislative Update

The Election is over, and a new session of the Virginia General Assembly is right around the corner. What will be the major topics of debate when the legislature convenes in January? How will the election results impact what transpires in the coming session? VSBA Chief Lobbyist, Stacey Haney, and VSBA Government Relations Specialist, J.T. Kessler, will provide a glimpse into what they believe the legislature will tackle during the 2020 session and how your division can assist the lobbying efforts by making your voices heard through grassroots advocacy with your elected Delegates and Senators.

Moderator

Robert Hundley, Jr.,

Hanover County School Board

Speakers

Stacy Haney

Chief Lobbyist, VSBA

J.T. Kessler

Government Relations Specialist, VSBA

J.T. Kessler joined the VSBA staff as Government Relations Specialist in March 2019 bringing over 15 years of government relations and advocacy experience gained in Ohio and North Carolina. J.T. also spent nine years teaching high school government, economics, and United States History... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PST
Allegheny

Breakout Session

11:30am PST

Social Media & Public Forums: Understanding the 1st Amendment in the Digital Age

From President Trump constantly using Twitter, to local politicians campaigning on Facebook, social media plays a large part in modern politics. This presentation explores how the 1st Amendment both encourages and discourages certain politically motivated behavior on social media platforms.

Moderator

Teddy Martin

VSBA Blue Ridge Region Chair, Henry County School Board

Speakers

Chris W. McCarty

Attorney, Lewis, Thomason, King, Krieg & Waldrop, P.C.

Chris W. McCarty is an attorney and former school teacher who practices education law at the firm of Lewis Thomason in Knoxville, Tennessee. Mr. McCarty is the current President of the Tennessee Council of School Board Attorneys, and is a frequent presenter on education related... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PST
Tidewater A/B

Breakout Session, Track: School Law

11:30am PST

Telling Your Own Story: How to engage the media and your community when sharing key messages

In a bold move, Portsmouth Superintendent Dr. Elie Bracy, III hired former newspaper journalist Cherise Newsome to lead the Communications Office for Portsmouth Public Schools. In nearly 3 years, the duo developed a multimedia powerhouse that positively shaped the image of Portsmouth’s public schools as a progressive, urban school division for all families. Using traditional media and digital platforms, the school division engages the community, policymakers and the media in relevant and captivating ways. In this session, you will learn how to: Share key messages with news media, Develop strong Governance Team communications strategies, Build a network of school and community ambassadors, and Grow your digital media footprint. The session includes Q&A with Dr. Bracy and Cherise and a Digital Communications Toolkit for every Governance Team.

Moderator

Catherine Wilkinson

VSBA Southside Region Chair, Amelia County School Board

Speakers

Dr. Elie Bracy, III

Superintendent, Portsmouth City Public Schools

A lifelong educator, Dr. Elie Bracy, III serves as Division Superintendent for Portsmouth Public Schools and has more than 20 years of experience as guidance counselor and school administrator. He's been named Superintendent of the Year by Virginia PTA.

Cherise M. Newsome

Communications Consultant

Cherise M. Newsome is a problem solver, strategic adviser and public relations pro. A former newspaper reporter, Cherise now coaches executives on powerful communications strategies, including storytelling, crisis management, client engagement, social and digital media.

Thursday November 21, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PST
Piedmont C

Breakout Session

11:30am PST

The State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act

This presentation satisfies the mandatory training requirement for local elected officials on the Conflict of Interest Act.

Please note this room has a capacity of 495.

Moderator

James Meyer

VSBA Legislative/Federal Relations Committee Chair, Spotsylvania County School Board

Speakers

Stewart Petoe

Executive Director, Virginia Conflict of Interest and Ethics Advisory Council

Stewart Petoe has been the Executive Director for the Ethics Council since 2016. Prior to that, he was the Director of Legal Affairs for the Virginia State Crime Commission. He received his undergraduate degree from the College of William and Mary and his law degree from the University... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PST
Colony D-E

Breakout Session, Track: School Law

11:30am PST

Transforming A High Poverty School Division: Our Students Don't Have Time to Wait

In just three years Martinsville City Public Schools moved from all four of its schools being Partially Accredited, two of them Reconstituted, and three under federal sanction to all four schools being Accredited with no federal sanctions. In fact, this year Martinsville Middle School and Martinsville High School have received the VDOE Continuous Improvement Award. This has been accomplished in a division where all of the schools are Community Eligible Partnership schools providing each student with free breakfast and lunch, and three of the schools are Title I Schoolwide schools. In fact, Martinsville’s division-wide average from low income families is 70%. Dr. Talley and his team will share the story of this journey and the keys to making the transformation and answer any questions.

Moderator

Theresa Bryant

VSBA Central Region Chair, Buckingham County School Board

Speakers

Dr. Zebedee Talley, Jr.,

Superintendent, Martinsville City Public Schools

Dr. Zebedee Talley, Jr. has over forty years of experience in education and has served as an administrator at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. He is currently in his fourth year as superintendent of Martinsville City Public Schools.

Angilee Downing

Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, Martinsville City Public Schools

Angilee Downing has twenty-six years in education, which includes teaching at the elementary, middle, junior high, and high school levels. She served as a lead teacher, Instructional Coordinator, Federal Programs Coordinator, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and currently Assistant... Read More →

Cynthia Tarpley

Principal, Martinsville Middle School

Cynthia Tarpley has twenty-nine years of experience with a background in special education. She has served as a middle school teacher, educational diagnostician, and is in her twelfth year as the middle school principal.

Ajamu Dixon

Principal, Martinsville High School

Ajamu Dixon has been in education for sixteen years and has served as a teacher, assistant principal, Drop-out Prevention Coordinator, and high school principal. He currently serves as the principal at Martinsville High School.

Thursday November 21, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PST
Piedmont A

Breakout Session, Students and Schools in Challenging Environments

11:30am PST

Virginia K-12 Budget and Finance 101

This session is perfect for new or novice School Board members as it will provide information on the budget process and roles of various stakeholders. Revenue will also be explained in a simple way that anyone can understand with emphasis on major State revenue categories. Other topics to be discussed include financial reporting, school activity funds, lapse and turnover, fund balance and carryover.

Moderator

Cardell Patillo

VSBA Tidewater Region Chair, Portsmouth City School Board

Speakers

Leigh Burden

Assistant Superintendent for Financial Services, Fairfax County Public Schools

Leigh Burden has been in Virginia education finance for over two decades. She currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent for Financial Services for Fairfax County Public Schools, a position she has held since March 2018. Previously Ms. Burden was the Assistant Superintendent... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 11:30am - 12:30pm PST
Colony A-C

Breakout Session, Track: Board Governance

12:30pm PST

Boxed Lunches

Boxed lunches will be available in the Colony Foyer for pick-up for all registered attendees.

Thank you to our sponsor, McGraw Hill Education

Sponsors

McGraw Hill Education

Thursday November 21, 2019 12:30pm - 2:00pm PST
Colony Foyer

Lunch

12:45pm PST

Bright Budget Bonus: How School Districts Are Saving Millions Through Solar

As school districts throughout the Commonwealth face increasingly tight budgets, a growing number of leaders are embracing on-site solar power, which allows them to bring STEM into the classroom while also saving significant sums of money. Come hear Superintendent Peter Gretz (Middlesex) and Assistant Superintendent Terry Stone (Hanover) share their first-hand experiences from their districts, as they are joined by solar-in-schools expert Seth Herman (Sun Tribe Solar), who will help understand the pathway towards making these projects a reality.

Speakers

Dr. Peter Gretz

Superintendent, Middlesex County Public Schools

Dr. Peter Gretz – Superintendent, Middlesex County Public Schools, a career educator and former Teacher of the Year, Dr. Peter Gretz currently serves as Superintendent for Middlesex County Public Schools, which will soon become the first school district in the nation to be 100 percent... Read More →

Terry Stone

Assistant Superintendent, Hanover County Public Schools

Terry Stone – Assistant Superintendent, Hanover County Public Schools, a Certified Public Accountant who has long served as a leading public sector finance expert, Terry Stone serves as Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations for Hanover County Public Schools. Prior... Read More →

Seth Herman

Senior Development Manager, Sun Tribe Solar

Seth Herman – Senior Development Manager, Sun Tribe Solar, an entrepreneur, solar expert, and advocate, Seth Herman has spent his career bringing people together and finding new audiences for community-focused ideas. He currently serves as Senior Development Manager at Sun Tribe... Read More →

Trish Tablan

Program Director, Generation 180

Trish Tablan – Program Director, Generation 180. As Program Director, Tish Tablan leads a nationwide campaign to help schools receive the educational and financial benefits of clean energy for Generation 180 – a non-profit committed to inspiring, empowering, and equipping individuals... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 12:45pm - 1:45pm PST
Liberty

Lunch & Learn

12:45pm PST

Captive Health Insurance Model

What is a group captive? Learn about the captive model and how it can reduce your districts healthcare and health insurance spend by providing transparency, control, eliminating waste and the latest cost-containment strategies in a turnkey approach.

Speakers

Thomas Wagner

Co-Founder & CSO, Echelon Advisors

Thomas Wagner, Co-Founder & CSO of Echelon Advisors is an experience executive and entrepreneur with extensive knowledge in the insurance and risk transfer industry. He has led multiple teams, created and develop programs for national franchisors, state systems, hospital systems and... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 12:45pm - 1:45pm PST
Piedmont A

Lunch & Learn

12:45pm PST

Maintaining Quality Instructors in Every Classroom, for Every Student, Every Day

Presenters will review the problems causing serious nationwide teacher shortages, absenteeism, turnover and overall job dissatisfaction. The interactive presentation and discussion will focus on key issues keeping teachers out of the classroom. We will share creative ideas gathered from education experts from across the country to address the problems and ask for additional ideas from our audience. We must ensure quality instruction is provided to every student, every day. It can be achieved through policy changes, execution, accountability and select, strategic partnerships.

Speakers

Russell Leboff

Vice President of Business Development, ESS

Russell Leboff has over 30 years business leadership and staffing experience working with ESS, GCA, T-Mobile, Cingular, BellSouth and Tandy Corporation with the last ten years dedicated to the support of education partners throughout the Southeast in his current role with ESS and... Read More →

Dr. David White

Superintendent, King William County Public Schools

Dr. David White, a long time resident of Virginia, has over 25 years experience in both the private and public sector with much of his time spent in education to include leadership roles in Stafford and King William County School Divisions where he currently leads that team as Division... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 12:45pm - 1:45pm PST
Piedmont C

Lunch & Learn

12:45pm PST

Practices of Promise and Success “Pop Up”

The VSBA Task Force on Students and Schools in Challenging Environments invites you to share your practices of promise and success with students and schools in challenging environments at this lunch time “pop up.” We are seeking to document policy, program, strategies, and other successes occurring around the Commonwealth aligned with our task force goals. Pop Up presenters may share their story for up to 10 minutes. Topics areas are limited to: Community & Family Engagement, Funding & Resources, Specialized Training, Student Learning, and Teacher Quality. Come and hear from Alexandria City Public Schools, Bristol City Public Schools, Charlottesville City Public Schools, Hampton City Public Schools, and Virginia Beach City Public Schools and share your successful and innovative approaches advancing positive outcomes for all students.

Moderator

Rodney Jordan

VSBA President-Elect, Norfolk City School Board

Thursday November 21, 2019 12:45pm - 1:45pm PST
Piedmont B

Lunch & Learn, Students and Schools in Challenging Environments

12:45pm PST

Promising Pathways, Journeying Towards Equitable Education

No two students, or teachers, or classrooms are the same! To inspire imaginations and shape students' identities as literate citizens of the world, they need to see relevant representations of themselves and their communities and see the lives of others in every aspect of their instruction. Expanding students' view of the world in this way affirms their experience, develops empathy, and opens students to possibilities beyond their experience and geography. This prepares them for global citizenship and the life-long learner journey! Our capacity to learn extends not only to the rich academic content encountered in schools, but also to our emotions and relationships with others. The principles and strategies offered in this session are designed to create pathways towards addressing the fundamentally social aspect of learning, and help all educational partners support both the hearts and the minds of all students. Participants will explore effective ways to enhance instructional equity through high quality instruction and delivery. This workshop will concentrate on creating equitable learning environment by engaging the unique strengths of your students. We will identify key principles in the research with example activities, teaching strategies, and routines. By pairing positive social and emotional learning with high quality academic instruction, students are empowered to capitalize on their powerful, innate learning abilities, and will build skills that will have a positive impact on their lives throughout their school years and beyond.

Speakers

Amber Woodford

National Literacy & Equity Strategist, McGraw-Hill Education

Amber Woodford is a Literacy Strategist for McGraw-Hill Education. As part of the National Urban Education Team, she partners with districts to advocate for equity and access for all students through culturally relevant and responsive literacy instruction. She is a former elementary... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 12:45pm - 1:45pm PST
Patriot

Lunch & Learn, Students and Schools in Challenging Environments

2:00pm PST

DELEGATE ASSEMBLY

This is the official business meeting of the VSBA. Stop in and hear the debate on critical VSBA educational issues which are sure to come before the 2020 Virginia General Assembly.

Thursday November 21, 2019 2:00pm - 4:00pm PST
Colony D-E

Delegate Assembly

2:00pm PST

VASS Training Seminar for Superintendents

Thursday November 21, 2019 2:00pm - 4:30pm PST
Tidewater A/B

VASS Training Seminar for Superintendents

2:30pm PST

"Save the Name…But the Name Hurts" A School Name Change Story

The Staunton School Board voted in the fall of 2018 to change the name of the city's only high school from Robert E. Lee High School to Staunton High School, effective July 1, 2019. A series of regrettable events occurred in Staunton City Schools in 2016 that put our division in the national spotlight, plus the August 2017 event in Charlottesville, just 30-some miles away, prompted school leaders to take a close look at racial disparities, diversity, and inclusivity in Staunton City Schools, and, ultimately, begin a yearlong process to examine those issues. The name change has been the most prominent transformation that has taken place as a result of self-examination and reflection, but the work continues.

Moderator

Jonno Alcaro

Albemarle County School Board

Speakers

Dr. Garett Smith

Superintendent, Staunton City Public Schools

Garett Smith is entering his third year as division superintendent for Staunton City Schools. He previously has served as an executive director, principal, assistant principal, and teacher. Smith has also been an adjunct professor, teaching school leadership classes at the University... Read More →

Ruth Jones Turner

Communications Manager, Staunton City Public Schools

Ruth Jones Turner is the communications manager for the City of Staunton and Staunton City Schools. She has served as a communications director and consultant for nonprofit organizations for more than 12 years and previously worked as a journalist for six years.

Jon Venn

Chief Human Resources Officer, Staunton City Public Schools

Jonathan Venn is the Chief Human Resources Officer for the City of Staunton and Staunton City Schools. He has previously served in multiple roles in Staunton City Schools including the Director of Human Resources, Director of Student Services and as a school psychologist.

Thursday November 21, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
Tidewater C-D

Breakout Session

2:30pm PST

Building and Sustaining Inclusive Practice through a Collaborative Partnership: Waynesboro, Pulaski, and Radford University

Waynesboro City Schools and Pulaski County Schools have partnered with Radford University's Inclusive Practices Center to enhance and sustain inclusive practice at the school and division level, and increase the successful inclusion of all students with disabilities. This is a two-year initiative funded by the Virginia Board of People with Disabilities. This first year each school used a collaborative team process to assess current practices that support inclusion and then developed an inclusive action plan with two or three measurable goals. Each school-based inclusion team included administrators, general and special educators, family members, students, and other school community members. The second year will include the 3Cs of the project: Culture, Collaboration, and Coaching. The presentation will include a rationale for why these divisions chose to work to build their capacity in inclusive practice, a description of activities to date, our successes, and also our challenges. We will share photographs and examples of assessments, professional development activities, and sample inclusion plans.

Moderator

Andrew Kohen

Harrisonburg City School Board

Speakers

Dr. Elizabeth Altieri

Professor, Radford University

Liz Altieri is Professor of Special Education and Co-Director of the Center for Inclusive Practice at Radford University. She has a career-long interest in collaboration and inclusive practices, and academic and social supports for people with significant disabilities. She also serves... Read More →

Dr. Ryan Barber

Executive Director of Student Services, Waynesboro City Schools

Ryan Barber has worked in several school divisions around the Commonwealth of Virginia. He is beginning his fourth year in Waynesboro City Schools as Executive Director of Student Services. He believes that by creating more inclusive environments, students and staff are better prepared... Read More →

Dr. Jeff Cassell

Superintendent, Waynesboro City Schools

Jeff Cassell's experiences include teaching high school and middle school math, serving as elementary principal and assistant superintendent for administration. He has served as Superintendent of Waynesboro Public Schools for six years during which he has supported the expansion of... Read More →

Dr. Kevin Siers

Superintendent, Pulaski County Schools

Kevin Siers has been Superintendent of Pulaski County Schools for three years. He was principal of Christiansburg High School from 2012 -2016 after two years working as the superintendent of Monroe County Schools in West Virginia, where he was credited with drastically cutting the... Read More →

Sarah Polcha

Director of Special Education, Pulaski County Schools

Sarah Polcha is a Pulaski County native who has been teaching special education 13 years. She became the Director of Special Education in Pulaski County in January of 2018 after working in elementary and middle settings.

Thursday November 21, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
Piedmont B

Breakout Session, Students and Schools in Challenging Environments

2:30pm PST

Creating a Strategic Plan that is Much More than a Shelf Document

Learn how Chesapeake Public Schools has leveraged the power of strategic thinking and collaborative planning to drive focused organizational change by engaging diverse stakeholders in the strategic planning process and fostering critical buy-in throughout the school division. Empower 2025 has become a living document that will provide the CPS road-map to inspire, engage, and empower all students to achieve their life’s purpose.

Moderator

Gail Hardinge

New Kent County School Board

Speakers

Victoria Proffitt

Chair, Chesapeake City School Board

Victoria L. Proffitt was elected to the Chesapeake Public Schools' School Board in 2012 and re-elected in 2016. She was elected as the School Board Vice Chairman in 2016 and 2017, and was elected Chairman in 2018. She is a native of Hampton Roads, a 29-year resident of Chesapeake... Read More →

Dr. Jared Cotton

Superintendent, Chesapeake City Public Schools

With over twenty-five years of experience in education, Dr. Jared A. Cotton has a strong background in strategic planning, curriculum, and instruction. He believes in the importance of aligning all aspects of the school division to focus on the core mission of empowering all students... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
Piedmont C

Breakout Session, Track: Board Governance

2:30pm PST

Graduation Within Reach

This presentation provides data on a successful plan to improve the graduation rate, reduce retention and decrease the dropout rate. This presentation will show a variety of ideas and implementations to complete the puzzle for success of the students. Attendees will learn of programs and plans to improve the data with very little cost to the school division and learn of Chesterfield County’s plans for the next five years to reach high expectations and success for the students.

Moderator

Dr. Andrea Hall-Leonard

Franklin City School Board

Speakers

Dr. Mervin Daugherty

Superintendent, Chesterfield County Public Schools

Dr. Daugherty began his tenure as the Superintendent of Chesterfield County Public Schools on November 1, 2018. Prior to this date he was the Superintendent of Schools for the Red Clay Consolidated School District in Wilmington, Delaware from 2009-2018. Before accepting the current... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
Liberty

Breakout Session

2:30pm PST

How to Present the School Division Budget to Local Appropriating Bodies

Adequate funding support from local appropriating bodies (city council & board of supervisors) is essential to developing and maintaining a quality public education program. Therefore, it is critical that local school boards and superintendents develop budget proposals that reflect the needs of the students and families their school divisions serve. On average, local appropriating bodies provide 45-55% of a school division's general operating budget funding; and nearly 100% of the school system's capital improvement funding. Therefore, it is essential that the school division's budget proposal and presentation to the local appropriating bodies clearly and concisely reflect the values and needs of the school division and the community that it serves. This presentation and discussion is designed to provide school board members with some of the key elements of an effective budget presentation to local appropriating bodies.

Moderator

Sherry Kraft

Charlottesville City School Board

Speakers

Dr. Michael Thornton

Superintendent, Surry County Public Schools

Dr. Michael E Thornton was appointed to the position of Superintendent of Schools with Surry County Public Schools on July 1, 2016. Dr. Thornton has nearly thirty-four years of school leadership and financial and operational management experience in public education. Dr. Thornton... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
Colony A-C

Breakout Session, Track: Board Governance

2:30pm PST

Redistricting: When You Face a Fight for Doing What's Right: Policy-making for More Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Schools

You aren't alone in navigating tough terrain on the path of progress. From rezoning to broadening access to gifted programs and advanced courses, equitable school board policy-making can be fraught with strong responses and community divisions. This session offers an impetus for action, policy approaches, and strategies to reduce resistance & expand engagement with your board's efforts.

Moderator

Kenneth Pritchett

Petersburg City School Board

Speakers

Dr. Kimberly M. Bridges

Assistant Professor & Co-Coordinator, EdD Program in K12 Education Leadership,, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Education

After two terms as a school board leader in Richmond, Kim Bridges worked in state education policy and earned a doctorate in Education Leadership at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Today she works to bridge scholarship with leadership to improve K12 governance and policies... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
Piedmont A

Breakout Session, Students and Schools in Challenging Environments

2:30pm PST

The Intersection of Public Relations and Risk Management: A Crash Course in Crisis Communications

The news “cycle” is now 24 hour and “news” is not exclusively disseminated in traditional formats at traditional times. Virtual platforms engender intense scrutiny and criticism of public schools and officials. When (not if) crisis hits - whether real or “crisis” of misinformation - managing risks associated with the always-on news cycle is challenging. This session will provide tips for board members and school officials to respond to media and community demands at the best - and worst - of times.

Moderator

Beverly Anderson

Virginia Beach City School Board

Speakers

Mandi Montgomery Smith

Attorney, TimberlakeSmith

Mandi Smith and Rodney Young are the Education Law Group at TimberlakeSmith. Together, they have over 30 years' experience representing more than 35 public school boards and regional programs across the Commonwealth. Both Smith and Young have advised school divisions in virtually... Read More →

G. Rodney Young, II

Attorney, TimberlakeSmith

Thursday November 21, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
Allegheny

Breakout Session, Track: School Law

2:30pm PST

Why wouldn't Zero Energy Schools be the new norm now that it's free?

For Virginia’s 1st Zero Energy School, Arlington Public Schools (APS) elected to purchase and own the Solar PV Array, however at their next school, Alice West Fleet Elementary, APS procured a Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The PPA will enhance learning and place Solar on 5 of their schools including a large array at Alice West Fleet, making the school open and perform at 100% Zero Energy. Nationally this covers two of the three ways Zero Energy Schools are being procured. The third is through a Guaranteed Performance Contract. APS will share the details of this procurement process and how students learned from this process bringing the experience into the classroom through hands on tools and interactive dashboards about energy resourcing and sustainability. The speakers will present Jennings Creek Elementary, an example of how a new Zero Energy Ready School utilized a GEPC to acquire a solar PV array making the school 100% Zero Energy at no cost to the School Division.

Moderator

Wanda Bailey

Mecklenburg County School Board

Speakers

Tony Hans

Vice President, CMTA Consulting Engineers

As CMTA’s National Director of Sustainable Projects, Tony Hans works with architects and owners to increase the potential of projects to be sustainable. He has worked on the majority of CMTA’s Zero Energy projects including Virginia's 1st Zero Energy School, Discovery Elementary... Read More →

Wyck Knox

Principal, VMDO Architects

Wyck Knox has worked for many renowned architectural firms over the years and currently is a Principal for VMDO. Wyck has been there for the past 11 years serving as a project architect and manager for acclaimed K-12 projects that has incorporated innovative design measures relating... Read More →

Cathy Lin

Energy Manager and Stormwater Program Administrator, Arlington County Public Schools

Cathy Lin is the Energy Manager and Stormwater Program Administrator for Arlington Public Schools (APS) in Arlington, Virginia. As the energy manager, she manages and directs various renewable energy and energy efficiency projects and oversees the district’s utility budget. Cathy... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 2:30pm - 3:30pm PST
Patriot

Breakout Session

3:45pm PST

ADA, FMLA and Workers' Compensation; You May Need a Crossing Guard for this Intersection

This presentation examines the intersection of these three employee protections as they may arise in the school setting. The most important provisions of the laws will be covered. Then real life instances occurring in the school building or central office will be shared with practical advice on minimizing time away from work, avoiding charges of discrimination and retaliation and staying out of court.

Moderator

Wendy Lovell

Rockbridge County School Board

Speakers

Robert J. Barry

Member, Kaufman & Canoles, PC

Robert Barry graduated from the University of Virginia for undergraduate and law, and then began his legal career in 1978 as an Assistant Attorney General. During seven years in the Education and Employment Section, he appeared in every courthouse in the Commonwealth. His primary... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm PST
Tidewater C-D

Breakout Session, Track: School Law

3:45pm PST

Assessment for Learning: Bright Spots from Virginia

How can system leaders effectively support assessment for, not of, learning? This is the key question being addressed in an innovative statewide network in Virginia. Eleven divisions--rural, suburban and urban--across the commonwealth have been collaborating for over two years to implement student-engaged assessment. You’ll hear from district leaders who will share tools developed that can be used to increase student engagement in the assessment process. Virginia Department of Education resources will also be discussed as a model for state leadership in performance assessment.

Moderator

Karen Whetzel

VSBA Valley Region Chair, Shenandoah County School Board

Speakers

Shontya' Washington

Frederick County School Board

Shontyá Washington was elected to the Frederick County School Board in 2017. She serves as the Chair of the Board’s Student Conduct and Support Committee and is a member of the Instruction Committee. In addition, she served as a member of the Strategic Plan Portrait Design Team... Read More →

Dr. David Sovine

Superintendent, Frederick County Public Schools

Dr. David T. Sovine is in his ninth year serving as the Superintendent of Frederick County Public Schools. During his tenure, the school division has revised its strategic plan twice, most recently adopting and implementing Inspire 2025: A Promise for Progress. Under Dr. Sovine’s... Read More →

Dr. Shannon King

Chief Innovation Officer, Battelle for Kids

Shannon King has more than 25 years of experience in education roles including classroom teacher, gifted education resource teacher, instructional coach, and as an administrator supporting professional development and instructional best practices. She is excited to be leading Battelle... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm PST
Piedmont A

Breakout Session

3:45pm PST

Closing the Literacy Gap and Reaching all Learners

Mobile technology is changing the way we learn and work. It's driving transformation in businesses of all sizes and across all industries. This monumental shift in how the world works is redefining the skills students need to be successful in the modern workplace. Learn how mobile technology can help empower students to become better communicators, collaborators, and creative problem solvers. Discover curriculum-focused apps that engage students, strengthen their core literacy and numeracy skills, and let them learn at their own pace.

Moderator

Claudia Soucek

Middlesex County School Board

Speakers

Apple, Inc.

Thursday November 21, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm PST
Colony A-C

Breakout Session

3:45pm PST

Combating the Stigma of Youth Mental Illness

One in five children ages 13-18 have or will experience a mental illness. The average delay between the onset of symptoms and intervention is 8-10 years, with the stigma of mental illness being the number one barrier for youth in seeking help. Faced with this reality, Fauquier County Public Schools implemented a program to encourage and support school staff to become certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA). YMHFA is an evidence-based approach that teaches individuals how to help youth who are experiencing a mental health challenge. Equipped with the information and skills provided in the YMHFA course, these "Youth Mental Health First Aiders” also help to spread the word that mental wellness is a topic that should be talked about and responded to as naturally as other health concerns. To date, the school division has over 500 staff trained in YMHFA. Staff members identify themselves as YMHFA certified by wearing purple lanyards. Join this session to learn about the Youth Mental Health First Aid program in Fauquier, including the implementation process and the program’s impact so far. Participants will leave equipped with information and resources to begin a similar program.

Moderator

Anita Parker

Gloucester County School Board

Speakers

Dr. David Jeck

Superintendent, Fauquier County Public Schools

Dr. David Jeck has served as the Superintendent of Fauquier County Public Schools since 2013. He was selected as the 2018 Region IV Superintendent of the Year and currently serves on Virginia's STEM Education Commission. Dr. Jeck is proud of the work Fauquier has done with youth mental... Read More →

Mr. Frank Finn

Assistant Superintendent of Student and Special Education Services, Fauquier County Public Schools

Frank Finn has served as Assistant Superintendent of Student and Special Education Services for Fauquier County Public Schools since 2008. He is responsible for the oversight of all student support services including student mental health and special education services. Mr. Finn is... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm PST
Patriot

Breakout Session

3:45pm PST

Creating Effective Policy for Family Engagement: What School Board Members Need to Know

Policies that align with Federal and State policy ultimately benefit the engagement of every family and the success of every student. Unlike most policies, effective family engagement policy development and implementation requires a different level of attention and engagement from the local school board. In this session, the components and development process of effective family engagement policy will be shared.

Moderator

Martha Mugler

Hampton City School Board

Speakers

Dr. Steve Constantino

Executive Professor, Education Policy, Planning and Leadership,, William & Mary School of Education

Leader, teacher, speaker and best-selling author Dr. Steve Constantino has a long and distinguished career in leadership and bringing innovation to educational and business organizations and is internationally recognized for his work in family and organizational engagement. Steve... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm PST
Allegheny

Breakout Session

3:45pm PST

Modern Governance: Using Digital Tools to Track Strategic Goals

Modern governance requires school board leaders to be more transparent, accountable, and highly engaged. To be successful, school board leaders need better tools that can help them demonstrate to the broader community how their division is performing against strategic plan goals, while also ensuring the board stays on track with the mission of enhancing student achievement and outcomes. This session will focus on how to seamlessly incorporate digital technology tools and modern governance approached into your division’s strategic planning and goal tracking. Attendees will leave the session with small but impactful action steps for better strategic focus at their next board meeting.

Moderator

Dora Garner

Mecklenburg County School Board

Speakers

Andrew Klein

eGovernance Specialist, BoardDocs

Andrew Klein is an eGovernance Specialist for BoardDocs, part of the Diligent brand of companies. He has been helping school boards achieve success results at school board meetings using technology tools.

Thursday November 21, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm PST
Liberty

Breakout Session, Track: Board Governance

3:45pm PST

STEM Learning at the Board Level

What are School Board Members doing to promote STEM through Entrepreneurial Challenges and Algebra?

Moderator

Dr. Elizabeth Altieri

Radford City School Board

Speakers

Dr. Eleanor Smalley

President and CEO, JASON Learning

Dr. Smalley is a nationally recognized educator and non-profit leader providing access and opportunity to all children, whether as a superintendent, teacher, professor or CEO. Dr. Smalley served 30 years in Public Schools, with 12 years as a Superintendent. While Superintendent, she... Read More →

Cardell Patillo

VSBA Tidewater Region Chair, Portsmouth City School Board

Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, Cardell Patillo, Jr. has blessed the world with an extreme love for people and an endless desire to please God. Since June 2009, Cardell has served as the full time Youth Pastor on staff at Grove Baptist Church where Dr. Melvin O. Marriner leads as Senior... Read More →

Dr. Tamara Sterling

Superintendent, Franklin City Public Schools

A transformational visionary leader that is dedicated to providing a high-quality personalized education to all children. Dr. Sterling began her career as a middle school Special Education teacher, then went on to serve as an assistant principal and transformational high school principal... Read More →

Amy Phillips

Board Chair, Franklin City Public Schools

For Amy Phillips, her interest in Franklin City Public Schools is personal. A 1993 graduate of Franklin High School, Amy believes in public education, and strongly supports our local school system and its students. Amy has worked for over 20 years in the financial industry, and has... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm PST
Piedmont C

Breakout Session

3:45pm PST

The Unspeakables-Let's Talk About That

In this workshop, participants will learn two practical strategies that can be used with students, staff, administrators, board members, families, and community members to begin to have some crucial conversations around issues of inequities in our schools and communities. Using Power Cards and Corner Questions, we will explore some of the “unspeakables” that plague our schools. Participants will leave with some examples of “Power Cards” and “Corner Questions” they can share with members of their organization.

Moderator

Leah Puryear

Charlottesville City School Board

Speakers

Dr. Crystal Edwards

Superintendent, Lynchburg City Public Schools

Dr. Crystal M. Edwards was appointed Superintendent for Lynchburg City Schools in 2018. She began her career as a high school science teacher and has over 30 years of experience working as a teacher, supervisor, director, assistant superintendent and superintendent in six urban and... Read More →

Thursday November 21, 2019 3:45pm - 4:45pm PST
Piedmont B

Breakout Session, Students and Schools in Challenging Environments

5:00pm PST

VSBA Thursday Evening Reception

Plan to attend this networking reception downstairs in the exhibit hall. Visit exhibitors one last time and network with your colleagues before you head off to dinner in Williamsburg.

Sponsored by Gold Level Partner Benefit Plan Administrators

Sponsors

Benefit Plan Administrators

Thursday November 21, 2019 5:00pm - 6:00pm PST
Virginia Room

Reception

8:00pm PST

ABM/VSBA Football Party

Join ABM and VSBA after dinner for a chance to network and watch football on the big screen. This event is a great opportunity to meet with colleagues, discuss issues or to just unwind while watching the game. Heavy hors d'oeuvres will be available.

Thursday November 21, 2019 8:00pm - 11:00pm PST
Allegheny

Reception

8:00am PST

Sit Down Breakfast

Thank you to the VA Lottery for sponsoring breakfast

Sponsors

Virginia Lottery

Friday November 22, 2019 8:00am - 8:45am PST
Virginia Room

Breakfast

8:45am PST

General Session featuring speaker Dr. Steven Constantino

Engage! Why Family Engagement Matters
Engaging families in the academic lives of their children is the goal of every school everywhere. However, the reality of successful progress toward this goal suggests much more work needs to be done. In his popular keynote, noted author, speaker and international family engagement practitioner, Dr. Steve Constantino, will take you on a journey through the five principles of effective family engagement. With his famous use of storytelling, infectious humor and knack for telling it like it is, Dr. Constantino will leave you both smiling and thinking, but most importantly, motivated to put into place practices that…Engage Every Family!

Moderator