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Publications

Becoming a Better Board Member

Designed to give you an easy-to-understand guide to the workings of a school board. Considered THE source of information, this resource gives you everything you'll need to be a board member.

Board Governance through Policy Online Course

Learn what policy is and the role administrative regulations play in the implementation of policy.

Boardsmanship for Oregon School Board Members

A comprehensive look at what it takes to be an Oregon school, ESD or community college board member. Written by OSBA staff.

Charter Governance through Policy Online Course

Learn the importance of charter policies and what’s different about them.

Community Engagement Online Course

This online course looks at the who, what, why and how of community and family engagement.

Educational Equity: Racial Equity 101 Online Course

This online course looks at the difference between equality and equity, and why it is vital to closing the achievement gap.

Ethics Online Course

What board members need to know about Oregon's ethics laws.

Extended Day Learning Opportunities Online Course

An overview, strategies, and case studies of effective extended day learning opportunities programs.

Key Work of School Boards

NSBA's newly revised guidebook provides a systems-thinking framework that gives educational leaders a blueprint to create quality, results-driven school systems. The enhanced guidebook includes: an analysis of the impacts of new federal and state legislation, including No Child Left Behind; new opportunities for districts based on evolving technology; tactics for surviving and thriving in this era of public accountability; suggestions on how to use data for decision making at all levels - classroom, school, district, and school board; and, case studies illustrating districts who have successfully used Key Work concepts to advance student achievement.

Lean in Education Online Course

Creating greater efficiencies in school districts and community colleges.

Modification of AIA Construction Contracts Online Course

A guide to sample modification language for commonly used AIA model construction contracts.

New Board Member Orientation Online Course

Resources and advice for beginning successful board service.

Public Meetings Online Course

An overview of the do's and don'ts of public meetings, minutes and executive sessions with examples.

Roles and Responsibilities Online Course

Who does what and why? What are the usual pitfalls, and how can you and your board avoid them?

School Law Basics for Board Members Online Course

This course is an overview for board members of their duties and legal responsibilities regarding policy, curriculum, staffing and budget.

Special Education, IDEA, and Section 504 Online Course

Reviews the history of special education laws since 1966 and current federal requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Act and Section 504.

Superintendent Evaluation Made Simple Online Course

Walks you through an easy to understand process to guide your board on its way through a superintendent evaluation.

The Essential School Board Book

NSBA recommends this book for its practical strategies to improve student achievement through good governance.

When You're in Charge: Board Chair Guide

Board chairs face an onslaught of decisions and responsibilities including conducting board meetings, working with their superintendents, and dealing with pressure groups, the news media and parents. OSBA recommends board chairs and anyone thinking about selecting or becoming a board chair read this publication, which contains straightforward guidelines as well as answers to questions we've received throughout the years.