NEW! Youth in School Governance Institute

Saturday, March 29 - Monday, March 31
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Student representatives serve on hundreds of school boards throughout the United States. These representatives are often relied upon to be the voice of the student body, the "insider." As students, they bring a unique and valuable perspective to their board. One student representative recently commented, "My board realizes that I represent the customer. They listen when I speak."

NSBA offers this Youth in School Governance Institute to build boardsmanship skills in student representatives. And, even though many may be under-utilized or have loosely defined roles, each representative is expected to contribute. She/he is expected to understand the scope and breadth of the board's purpose and support the overall function and goals of their local school board.

The 2008 Institute will focus on building upon the skills each student representative will need to be most effective.

We will stress:

• Defining the student representative's role;
• Connecting to the board in meaningful ways;
• Assessing your level of commitment;
• Planning and preparing to make contributions;
• Communication, political, and organizational skills; and
• Expanding your leadership skills to work within the democratic process.

Of course, each student representative has already developed many of these skills through his/her education and personal experience. And, boardsmanship demands that these skills be continuously improved upon. This institute provides opportunities to practice leadership within a school board context. Together, in a network of their peers, they'll share their insights and exchange stories of the successes they have experienced.

At the end of the three-day institute, student representatives will better comprehend the importance of school boards and community leadership. Each student will better understand their role and how they can best contribute. Participants will explore meeting preparation, taking their role and responsibility seriously, and have the confidence to articulate opinions, ideas, and insights clearly and persuasively.

Student representatives will benefit from participation in NSBA's Annual Conference. By having student leaders attend, your district is investing in the overall balance of your board and showing that you value and appreciate the student voice.

The registration fee for the three-day Youth in School Governance Institute is $275 and limited to the first 50 registered student leaders — check the Youth in School Governance box on your registration form.

Youth in School Governance participants are also encouraged to attend Early Bird #6 - Getting the Most from your Student Board Representative on Friday, March 28. Pre-registration and a fee are required.