AASB's Board Development Program
AASB's Board Standards is a framework for the work of school boards. Developed by a diverse group of Alaskans in 1998 these are the standards that school boards should be committed to and held accountable for. The Framework — Vision, Structure, Accountability, Advocacy and Conduct and Ethics — serves as the foundation for all of the Association's board development activities.

A variety of training opportunities are available for board members throughout the year. Program content and topics are linked to the Standards Framework as shown on the attached document. A description of the program offerings follows:

Spring and Fall Boardsmanship Academy. The Academy provides comprehensive training on the board's role in School Law, School Finance, Policy Development and Curriculum. Conducted in conjunction with the University of Alaska /Southeast, AASB-sponsored training earns school board members and administrators professional development credits and public recognition.

Annual Conference. Held each November, this is the largest gathering of school board members in the state. Conference programs feature renowned speakers, educationsectionals, new board member orientation, and a business meeting that gives the association its direction.

Labor Relations Conference. Held in December of each year, this workshop prepares board members for the task of collective bargaining and helps clarify labor relations issues.

Leadership Conference. Designed to enhance the skills of present and future board presidents and officers, this top quality program is an opportunity to acquire skills and information that can help participants to become a more effective and productive leader.

Legislative Fly-In's. AASB conducts two Legislative Fly-In's that prepares participants with the basics of the legislative process, helps develop lobbying skills, and provides an opportunity to discuss the issues from a local perspective and advance a statewide vision on key education issues.

School Board Self Assessment. AASB's self-assessment is based on board standards and performance indicators that have been developed by a broad cross section of Alaskans. AASB staff, during a customized workshop, can facilitate the assessment and help a board develop their own plan for improvement.

Customized Workshops. AASB provides in-district workshops upon request and can tailor the workshop to meet the needs of a board. Suggested workshop topics include: Teamwork, Board/Superintendent Responsibilities, School Board Self-Evaluation, and Goal Setting.