The Policy Hour Series is designed to equip school board members with the tools and knowledge they need to stay informed and engaged in the fast-changing world of federal education policy. This webinar series is an exclusive member benefit. However, given the extraordinary situation of the federal government shutdown, these webinars are available to all school boards and state school boards associations. Click here to learn more about NSBA's membership programs.

Upcoming Session:

The Policy Hour — 12.2.25

50 Years of IDEA: Navigating One of the Biggest Shifts in Its History
As the nation prepares to mark the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), federal policymakers are considering a significant administrative change that could reshape how special education is implemented across the country. Recent proposals have suggested shifting oversight of IDEA from the U.S. Department of Education to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)—a move that would fundamentally alter the administration, monitoring, accountability, and delivery of special education services. 

In this timely NSBA-hosted session, education leaders, legal experts, and policy advocates will examine: 

  • What the proposed change means for school districts, students with disabilities, and families 

  • How the shift could impact compliance, funding, and enforcement of federal protections 

  • Key legal and governance questions surrounding IDEA’s future under a different federal agency 

  • The potential implications on equity, access, and school board decision-making 

  • Advocacy strategies to ensure that the original intent of IDEA—providing every child with a free, appropriate public education—remains intact 

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the current proposal, its potential impacts on public schools, and concrete actions school boards can take to protect special education services during this period of transition.

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Past Sessions:

The Policy Hour — 10.28.25

Navigating the Federal Voucher Program: Implications for Public Education and School Board Advocacy
With several states already opting into the program and the U.S. Treasury Department set to initiate formal rulemaking in 2027, local boards of education are facing urgent questions about oversight, transparency, and accountability. Panelists shared insights on how school boards can proactively engage in advocacy efforts, ensure public accountability, and protect the integrity of public education amid this shifting policy environment.  

Watch Recording

Passcode: NSBAPolicyHour2

The Policy Hour — 9.30.25
This inaugural session introduced NSBA’s new Managing Director of Government Relations, Dr. Phelton Moss, and provided members with timely updates on the federal budget process as Congress worked toward the Sept. 30 deadline.

Watch Recording

Passcode: t1#5kwW6