2018 VSBA Annual Convention: Full Schedule

Welcome to the Virginia School Boards Association’s Annual Convention Mobile Schedule

10:00am EST

Education Foundation Workshop

The Virginia School Boards Association would like to invite you to a workshop for 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 connecting students to their future, marketing and messaging, and educational equity. Additionally, attendees will discuss how foundations can partner with the private sector and other foundations for success. There will also be a chance to share best practices from your education foundation and pick up some great tools that you can use as soon as you return to your foundation.

Thank you to TRANE for sponsoring the Education Foundation Workshop.

Sponsors

TRANE

Tuesday November 13, 2018 10:00am - 3:30pm EST
Allegheny

Education Foundation Workshop

9:30am EST

A Seamless Transition from K-12 to High-Skill, High-Wage Employment

Join this session to explore the roadmap of a school division and business community working in partnership to transform the traditional high school experience to prepare young people to graduate college, career, and life-ready. Driven by the current and projected economic workforce data, Hampton City Schools has partnered with industry leaders to create a seamless transition from school to high-skill, high-wage employment. As a result of this meaningful collaboration, students will embody the Profile of a Virginia Graduate. Each participant will leave this session with the processes, structures, and lessons to transform teaching and learning, the secondary school experience, and business/civic engagement. This session will include a variety of voices that will highlight various perspectives of individuals who have come together in order to prepare young people for success.

Speakers

Mary Bunting

City Manager, City of Hampton

In 2010, Mary Bunting became the first female city manager for the City of Hampton, Virginia. Bunting grew up in Hampton and is a product of the Hampton School System. She began her career with the City of Hampton as an assistant to the city manager in 1990 and was promoted to assistant... Read More →

Dr. Robert McNab

Professor of Economics, Old Dominion University

Dr. Robert McNab earned his doctorate in Economics in 2001 from Georgia State University. He has served as a consultant on tax policy, tax administration, and revenue estimation and forecasting issues for the United States Agency for International Development and the World Bank. He... Read More →

Dr. Jeffery Smith

Superintendent, Hampton City

Dr. Jeffery Smith is a Cum Laude graduate of Virginia Union University, where he earned a B.A. degree in English Education, and Virginia Commonwealth University, where he earned a Master of Education degree in Education Administration and Supervision. Dr. Smith is also a graduate... Read More →

Moderator

Cardell Patillo

VSBA Tidewater Region Chair, Portsmouth City

Wednesday November 14, 2018 9:30am - 12:00pm EST
TidewaterABCD

Early Bird Session

10:00am EST

Student School Board Representative Session - You are what you say you are!

For the past fourteen years, the Virginia School Boards Association has hosted a student school board representative session at the annual convention. This workshop will feature various topics, from school board policy input, potential board situations, leadership, and to discuss life as a student representative.

Speakers

Dr. William D. Sroufe

Superintendent, Patrick County

Dr. William D. Sroufe is an award-winning educator and division superintendent of Patrick County Public Schools. In addition to his work in education, Dr. Sroufe has written two books of poetry: Words from a Journal (2014) and Starting a Conversation: Poems and Prose (2017) both by... Read More →

Wednesday November 14, 2018 10:00am - 1:30pm EST
Allegheny

Student Board Representative Session

11:00am EST

VSBA/COSA Meeting

11:00 – 11:05 Welcome
Wade Anderson, Esq., VSBA COSA Chair
Henrico County Public Schools
11:05 – 12:05 Hot Topics in Legal Ethics
  Ethics presentation
Barbara Balogh Saunders, Esq.
Assistant Ethics Counsel
Virginia State Bar

12:05 – 1:05   New Board of Education Licensure Hearing Guidelines
  Stephen L. DeVita, Esq.
Division Counsel
Loudoun County School Board

1:05 – 1:35 Lunch (box lunches will be served; please let us know if you have any special dietary needs)

1:35 – 2:35 You're Fired: Successfully Guiding Your Client Through a Government Employee Termination
  Yvonne S. Gibney, Esq.
Deputy County Attorney
Hanover County

2:35 – 3:00 Business Meeting

Wednesday November 14, 2018 11:00am - 4:00pm EST
The Woodlands

VSBA/COSA Meeting

12:00pm EST

Awards Luncheon (invited attendees)

Speakers

Dr. William D. Sroufe

Superintendent, Patrick County

Sponsors

VMDO

Wednesday November 14, 2018 12:00pm - 1:30pm EST
Piedmont Room

Awards Luncheon (Invitation Only)

2:00pm EST

General Session featuring speaker Coach Carter

Speakers

Coach Ken Carter

When famed high school basketball coach Ken Carter literally locked his undefeated, state play-off bound team out of the gym and forced them to hit the books and stop counting on athletic potential as the only ticket out of a tough, inner city life, he sent a powerful message. At... Read More →

Sponsors

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 14, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Virginia Room

Reception

8:15pm EST

Evening of Comedy & Jazz

Enjoy a relaxing evening of laughs and music with comedian Cyrus Steele and jazz musician Rick Elliott. Cyrus Steele is dedicated to giving his audience more than a show, in addition to being a part of HBO's Comedy Wings competition, Cyrus most recently has performed for FOX's "Showtime at the Apollo" and NBC's "America's Got Talent". Jazz musician, Rick Elliott has been described as one of the most talented musicians in the region. He combines the soulful sounds of smooth jazz with the melodic stylings of rhythm and blues. This is a night you don’t want to miss!

Sponsors

RRMM

Successful Innovations

Wednesday November 14, 2018 8:15pm - 11:00pm EST
Colony A/C

7:00am EST

VSBA 5K

Registration for the 15th Annual VSBA 5K Walk/Run sponsored by BCWH, VS America, Inc & Ascent on Thursday, November 15 at 7:00 a.m. is now open! Registration is free for school board members, superintendents, and board clerks. Please click here to register for the 5K.
Pick up materials for the run/walk beginning at 6:30 a.m. on Thursday 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.

Sponsors

ASCENT Engineers

BCWH

VS America, Inc.

Thursday November 15, 2018 7:00am - 7:30am EST
Williamsburg Lodge

8:00am EST

Breakfast

Sponsors

Benefit Plan Administrators

Inc.

Thursday November 15, 2018 8:00am - 9:15am EST
Virginia Room

Breakfast

8:45am EST

General Session featuring speaker Sue Meyer

Leading Innovation in Education
Technology can provide students access to new learning paths, expand their basic skills, and empower them to create solutions to real challenges. We’ll share some of the key elements that enable education leadership to drive innovation so students are ready for the world ahead.

Speakers

Sue Meyer

Sue Meyer is part of Apple’s Education team, working with school leaders to leverage technology to transform learning. Prior to Apple, Sue served for 26 years as a teacher and district administrator in Minnesota. She holds an MS in Information Media.

Thursday November 15, 2018 8:45am - 10:00am EST
Colony Room

General Session

9:45am EST

School Board Clerks Workshop

The school board clerks planning committee has been working hard to develop an interesting and exciting workshop! This year, clerks will have the opportunity to:
· Attend the VSBA Annual Convention general sessions
· Get an overview of practical job tasks
· Learn strategies to deal with stress, and difficult people
· Learn about the different roles of a School Board Clerk
· Hear about legal hot topics from VSBA Director of Legal and Policy Services, Elizabeth Ewing
· And more!

Thursday November 15, 2018 9:45am - 4:00pm EST
The Woodlands

School Board Clerks Workshop

10:15am EST

Building Capacity for Blended Transformation

One of the greatest challenges facing classrooms today is successfully transforming to 21C, student-centered learning. Futurists predict that today’s students may have 11 different jobs and need to reinvent themselves multiple times to remain workforce relevant. How can schools prepare students to be lifelong, self-generating learners? This session will explore characteristics of 21C learning and how educators can support student-centered learning.

Speakers

Jason Green

Co-Founder, Learning Innovation Catalyst

Co-founder of LINC (Learning Innovation Catalyst), Jason has helped hundreds of schools and districts reimagine and implement 21st century teaching and learning. Through an ongoing research partnership with Stanford University Graduate School of Education’s Dr. Arnetha Ball, Jason... Read More →

Moderator

Janet Turner-Giles

Vice-Chair, Nelson County School Board

Thursday November 15, 2018 10:15am - 11:15am EST
Tidewater C/D

Breakout Session

10:15am EST

Coach Carter's Playbook

The workshop leverages the content from Coach Carter’s presentation and delves into the Coach Carter’s Playbook as it relates to an educational setting providing pragmatic tools for educators and parent involvement. He uses examples from the movie to illustrate the principles of his 7 life plays.

Moderators

Tyrone Foster

VSBA President-Elect, Bristol City School Board

Speakers

Coach Ken Carter

Debra Carter-Kelly

CEO, Lifepoint

Debra is the CEO of Carter-Kelly Consulting LLC and its’ divisions, a thriving executive image, relationship and constituency management firm. Debra has a Masters Degree from the University of San Francisco in International Multicultural Education. She is a Director for the International... Read More →

Thursday November 15, 2018 10:15am - 11:15am EST
Allegheny

Breakout Session

10:15am EST

Commit to Be Fit: A Three-Pronged Approach to Community Wellness

Rappahannock County Schools has implemented a three-pronged approach to addressing the rural obesity epidemic through three C's-- Cafeteria, Classroom, Community. Cornerstones of the program are cafeteria menu redesigns, integration of action-based learning, and wellness and fitness classes for the community at large. This presentation will outline the framework used to share best practice in implementing school-based wellness programs.

Speakers

Shannon Grimsley

Superintendent, Rappahannock County Public Schools

Shannon Grimsley is the superintendent (cheerleader in chief) of Rappahannock County Public Schools. She is the researcher/grant writer of the Commit to Be Fit program and is committed to engaging the community around the concept of health and wellness.

Amanda Grove

Nutrition Specialist / Food Service Director, Rappahannock County Public Schools

Amanda Grove is the nutrition specialist for the program and the food service director for the division. The two titles go hand-in-hand when integrating healthier foods into the cafeteria menu, teaching nutrition to students, and providing one-on-one nutrition consulting for the community... Read More →

Holly Jenkins

Wellness Integration Specialist, Rappahannock County Public Schools

Holly Jenkins is the wellness integration specialist whose primary focus is ensuring the implementation of kinesthetic learning practices in the classroom, and engaging the community in the wellness program. Holly is a certified wellness coach, a former gym manager, and an advertising/marketing... Read More →

Jackie Tederick

Wellness Coordinator, Rappahannock County Public Schools

Jackie Tederick is the wellness coordinator for the project. With nearly 20 years experience as a PE/Health teacher and various certifications as a fitness/personal trainer, she is an integral part of coordinating the team and the various project activities.

Moderator

Iris Lane

Member, Westmoreland County

Thursday November 15, 2018 10:15am - 11:15am EST
Liberty

Breakout Session

10:15am EST

Early Childhood Education- Lessons from the Past and Possibilities for the Future

Study after study reaches the conclusion that early childhood education has a tremendous impact on life outcomes. Yet only 51% of 3-and-4-year-olds in the US are enrolled in full-day preprimary programs, with no improvement in the last 15 years. In this session, educators from the front lines will talk about the latest thinking in early childhood education. Along with educational planners and architects, they will review three projects designed to support early childhood education and how these spaces do or do not meet the needs of early learners. One project has been in operation for nearly a decade, one opened in 2017, and one is in the early planning stages. Participants will hear about approaches from three different districts in Virginia, understand best practices and lessons learned from these projects, and engage in a dialogue about the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Speakers

Maria Bninski

Associate, VMDO Architects

Maria has been a member of the VMDO team since 2010. Through her work on a recent Capacity Study for Charlottesville City Schools, she has worked with CCS to design options for expanding early childhood learning district-wide. She will present findings from her research on early childhood... Read More →

Kelly Callahan

Principal, VMDO Architects

Kelly plays a key role in shepherding VMDO’s K12 education projects from conception to completion. She places high priority in design on a sense of place, definitions of public space, and the resolution of a building as a built object. Most recently, she oversaw the design and management... Read More →

Dr. Scott Kizner

Superintendent, Stafford County Public Schools

Dr. Kizner has more than 18 years of experience serving as a school superintendent. He is currently the Superintendent of Stafford County Public Schools. Prior to coming to Stafford County Dr. Kizner served as superintendent in Harrisonburg City Public Schools. Previous to that, he... Read More →

Wyck Knox

Principal, VMDO Architects

Wyck is a nationally-recognized leader in the design of high performance learning spaces that blend thoughtful design with sustainable goals to deliver added value for clients and users. Through his work on Manassas Park Elementary School and Pre-K, Wyck contributed to VMDO’s first... Read More →

Moderator

Teresa Ellison

Member, Buena Vista City

Thursday November 15, 2018 10:15am - 11:15am EST
Piedmont A

Breakout Session

10:15am EST

Fairfax County’s Project Momentum: Delivering Equity and Excellence for All Children

Attendees will hear from Fairfax County Public Schools about their model for equity and school improvement, and explore the results from the initiative in its first three years. This project is based on tight focus, strategic and equitable deployment of resources, and removal of barriers to student achievement, all in a differentiated framework. By explaining the history of the project and its current state, attendees will learn how they can help improve equity across their divisions and improve results at the struggling schools in their district.

Speakers

Dr. Scott Brabrand

Superintendent, Fairfax County Public Schools

Dr. Scott Brabrand is in his first year as Superintendent of FCPS after spending five years as Superintendent of Lynchburg City Schools, where he oversaw increases in the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) pass rates in math and reading and in the graduation rate, particularly for... Read More →

Mark Greenfelder

Executive Director, Office of School Support, Fairfax County Public Schools

Mr. Mark Greenfelder served as a middle school and high school principal before becoming an Executive Principal for School Improvement, a role that he defined by creating a model of support for schools at risk. He now serves as the first Executive Director of the Office of School... Read More →

Dawn Hendrick

Principal, Woodlawn Elementary School

Dawn Hendrick has been the principal of Woodlawn Elementary School in Alexandria, VA since June 2011. Woodlawn began participating in Fairfax County Public Schools’ Project Momentum in July 2014 and is still part of the program today. Since the implementation of Project Momentum... Read More →

Brendan Menuey

Executive Principal for School Improvement, Fairfax County Public Schools

Brendan Menuey became the Executive Principal for School Improvement in 2015, after starting his fifth year as principal at Lake Anne Elementary School. His work focuses on supporting struggling schools and leading instructional change, especially for at-risk students. He holds a... Read More →

Dr. Fabio Zuluaga

Assistant Superintendent, Fairfax County Public School

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... Read More →

Moderator

Bob Hundley

Board Chair, Hanover County

Thursday November 15, 2018 10:15am - 11:15am EST
Colony A/C

Breakout Session, Schools in Challenging Environments

10:15am EST

School Law Update

This annual update will provide a summary of the court decisions and other major developments in the area of school law for the past year.

Speakers

Jason Ballum

Attorney, Reed Smith LLP

Pat, Kathy, Jason are all attorneys with the law firm Reed Smith. Their practice focuses exclusively on the representation of school boards throughout Virginia.

D. Patrick Lacy, Jr

Attorney, Reed Smith LLC

Pat, Kathy and Jason are all attorneys with the law firm Reed Smith. Their practice focuses exclusively on the representation of school boards throughout Virginia.

Kathleen Mehfoud

Attorney, Reed Smith LLC

Pat, Kathy, and Jason are all attorneys with the law firm Reed Smith. Their practice focuses exclusively on the representation of school boards throughout Virginia.

Moderator

Beth Hardy

Vice Chair, Goochland County

Thursday November 15, 2018 10:15am - 11:15am EST
Colony D/E

Breakout Session, School Law

10:15am EST

Strategic Thinking and Strategic Planning: The Key to a High Functioning School Division

This presentation will provide participants with an overview of the key components to strategic thinking and strategic planning in their school division. Participants will identify key components of an effective strategic plan as well as the importance of strategically thinking your way through division-wide initiatives.

Speakers

Dr. Greg Hutchings

Superintendent, Alexandria City Public Schools

Dr. Gregory C. Hutchings, Jr. began his tenure as superintendent of schools in Alexandria City Public Schools on July 1, 2018 after serving five years as superintendent in the Shaker Heights City Schools (Ohio). Dr. Hutchings' areas of expertise include strategic thinking, educational... Read More →

Moderator

Jannan Holmes

Member, Fredericksburg City

Thursday November 15, 2018 10:15am - 11:15am EST
Tidewater A/B

Breakout Session

10:15am EST

Superintendent Search Panel

Samantha Bosserman, VSBA Director of Communications & Board Development, explains the VSBA model used successfully in 14 searches in 2017-18. Board members from Newport News, Orange County and Manassas City will review their successful experiences using this VSBA service.

Speakers

Gary Hunter

Board Chair, Newport News City

Sherrie Page

Board Chair, Orange County

Sanford Williams

Board Chair, Manassas City

Moderator

Theresa Bryant

Member, Buckingham County

Thursday November 15, 2018 10:15am - 11:15am EST
Patriot

Breakout Session, Board Governance

10:15am EST

Teacher Pay: Options for Rewarding Excellence

Bob Holt will present research-based findings on various practices for compensating outstanding classroom teachers.

Speakers

Bob Holt

Board Chairman, Franklin City Schools

BS in Business Management from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg MS in Adult and Continuing Education " CAGS in Higher Education Administration " 46 year career in both the private and public sectors specializing in human resources development

Moderator

Cardell Patillo

VSBA Tidewater Region Chair, Portsmouth City

Thursday November 15, 2018 10:15am - 11:15am EST
Piedmont B

Breakout Session

10:15am EST

Workforce Readiness Update Panel

Speakers

Dr. Megan Healy

Chief Workforce Development Advisor, Governor Northam

Dr. Brenda Long

Executive Director, Virginia Association of Career and Technical Education

Keith Martin

Executive Vice President, Virginia Chamber of Commerce

Moderator

James Meyer

At-Large Member, VSBA Board of Directors

Thursday November 15, 2018 10:15am - 11:15am EST
Piedmont C

Breakout Session, CTE/Workforce Readiness

11:30am EST

A Standard of Care for the Prevention of Employee to Student Sexual Misconduct

Ten percent of students in grades K to 12 report being the target of sexual misconduct by a school employee, most often a teacher or a coach. These children have life-long responses to the trauma they faced. As arrests increase , so too, do civil suits against school districts with settlements and awards ranging from 1 to 30 million dollars. This talk will present a standard of care for the prevention of employee sexual misconduct that school districts can use as a guide for keeping students safe.

Speakers

Charol Shakeshaft Ph.D.

School of Education Professor, Virginia Commonwealth University

Dr. Charol Shakeshaft, a professor of educational leadership at VCU, has been studying student safety for 25 years. Her research has been funded by the U.S. Department of Education and she is the author if the congressionally mandated report on educator sexual misconduct in the... Read More →

Moderator

Kathleen Beane

Member, Richmond County

Thursday November 15, 2018 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
Tidewater A/B

Breakout Session

11:30am EST

Board Governance Panel

Speakers

Ann Cherry

Board Chair, Hampton City

Dr. Andrea Hall-Leonard

Board Member, Franklin City

John Priest

Board Member, Mathews County

Dr. Michael Thornton

Superintendent, Surry County Public Schools

Moderator

Iris Lane

Member, Westmoreland County

Thursday November 15, 2018 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
Patriot

Breakout Session, Board Governance

11:30am EST

Budget 101- What Every New School Board Member Needs to Know About Budget and Finance

Perfect session for new School Board members and new Superintendents or even those who need a refresher course. Budget process, staffing, reporting, state revenue and laps and turnover will be covered as well as miscellaneous topics that everyone needs to understand.

Speakers

Leigh Burden

Assistant Superintendent of Financial Services, Fairfax County public schools

Leigh Burden has been in Virginia education finance for over 25 years. She currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Financial Services for Fairfax County Public Schools, a position she has held since March 2018. Ms. Burden was previously the Assistant Superintendent for... Read More →

Moderator

James Coleman

Vice Chair, Lynchburg City

Thursday November 15, 2018 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
Allegheny

Breakout Session, Board Governance

11:30am EST

Changing Lanes- One Division’s Transition to a Non-Traditional Pay Structure

Staff from Manassas Park City Schools will tell the story of how that division moved from multiple traditional step and lane salary scales to a single unified series of pay grades. Details on the three-year journey will include the ups and downs of benchmarking, the journey to gain buy-in for the new midpoint plus loyalty raise methodology, and the intricacies of scale placement.

Speakers

Krista Kelly

Executive Director of Finance, Manassas Park City Schools

Krista Kelly served MPCS as a teacher before assuming her current role in 2010. With twelve years in the private sector as an Engineer and Finance professional, her varied background gives her a unique perspective. She continually finds ways to enhance the performance and efficiency... Read More →

Rachel Kirkland

School Board Chair, Manassas Park City Schools

Mrs. Rachel Kirkland has been a member of the Manassas Park School Board since 2008. In addition to her school board duties, Mrs. Kirkland is a Media Specialist for a neighboring school division. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English from George Mason University and a Masters... Read More →

Dr. Bruce McDade

Superintendent, Manassas Park City Schools

Dr. McDade was appointed Superintendent of Manassas Park City Schools in 2010. Prior to his appointment, Dr. McDade served the district as the Associate Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction and Technology from 2006-2010, and as principal of Manassas Park High School from 20... Read More →

Eric Neff

Deputy Superintendent, Manassas Park City Schools

Mr. Neff began his education career in 1988 as a high school business teacher in Stafford County Public Schools. He was named Assistant Principal of Manassas Park High School in 1999, Principal of Manassas Park Elementary School in 2003, and Principal of Manassas Park Middle School... Read More →

Moderator

David Mitnick

Thursday November 15, 2018 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
Piedmont B

Breakout Session

11:30am EST

Empowering Young Learners to Lead a Culture Change for Innovation

Over the past 18 months we engaged our school and central leadership in the development of nine cultural norm statements to specifically identify behaviors that are necessary to change our culture to support innovative, learner-centered practices, but we were then faced with challenges of how to communicate these norms to teachers and other staff in very practical ways. Guided by our core value of collaboration, we worked with a very talented group of young learners from Jefferson Forest High School to write, direct, and perform a series of skits that illustrated one or more of our cultural norms. Eight of these skits were performed live during our annual leadership training event in June 2018 and were used to facilitate discussions about school culture among principals and other staff. Each of the young learners also joined a small group discussion in order to provide the student perspective in these discussions. Based on the overwhelming positive response to the live skits, we then worked with these same young learners to produce film versions that we debuted at our August back-to-school gathering for all teachers, while making additional films available for training purposes at each school in the future. During this presentation you will hear our story from the perspective of our superintendent and the young learner who directed and produced both the live skits and film versions. We will also share one or two of the films and engage session participants in some of the same professional learning activities that we conducted with our teachers and leaders this past summer.

Speakers

Sarah Detwiler

Student, James Madison University

Sarah Detwiler is a student at James Madison University and a 2018 graduate of Jefferson Forest High School. Sarah has been involved in numerous student produced films and starred in the critically acclaimed "Exposed" video that addresses the topic of teenage sexting. She was also... Read More →

Chandler Hood

Student, Central Virginia Community College

Chandler Hood is a student at Central Virginia Community College and a 2018 graduate of Jefferson Forest High School. In addition to his recent work with Bedford County Public Schools, Chandler has written, directed, and produced films for the Bedford County Sheriff's Department... Read More →

Dr. Doug Schuch

Superintendent, Bedford County Public Schools

Dr. Doug Schuch has served as Superintendent of Bedford County Public Schools since 2009. He began his career in public education in 1994 at Hayfield Secondary School in Fairfax County, where he taught Physics and Physical Science, and later worked in Stafford County as an assistant... Read More →

Moderator

Anita Parker

Board Chair, Gloucester County

Thursday November 15, 2018 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
Tidewater C/D

Breakout Session

11:30am EST

From A-to-F to Growth to Equity

This session will provide an update from your Task Force on Schools in Challenging Environments. Learn about the successes and remaining opportunities from the task force’s 1.0 report; Provide input into the under-development 2.0 report; Learn how your governance team may seize the work of the task for to advance academic achievement for all.

Speakers

Dr. Lisa Banicky

Director Department of Planning, Innovation, and Accountability, Virginia Beach City

Dr. Scott Brabrand

Superintendent, Fairfax County Public Schools

Rodney Jordan

Finance/Audit Committee Chair, Norfolk City School Board

Dr. Mark Lineburg

Superintendent, Halifax County School Board

Thursday November 15, 2018 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
Piedmont A

Breakout Session, Schools in Challenging Environments

11:30am EST

It’s So Easy Being Green!

Implementing and maintaining energy efficiency, environmental education, and conservation practices can be daunting in a school division of any size. Through collaborative efforts within each school and with the community, Henry County Public Schools is realizing the benefits of educating the school community on what it means to be a conscientious environmental citizen. Discover daily practices that can make a dramatic difference in the school community – and on our world! Henry County Public Schools is the home of two USDOE Green Ribbon Schools and was named one of six USDOE Green Ribbon Schools Sustainability Awardees in 2018.

Speakers

Monica Hatchett

Director of Communications & Organizational Learning, Henry County Public Schools

Prior to her current position, Monica Hatchett served students as a classroom teacher and mentor. Today, she enjoys sharing the division's story and coordinating meaningful learning experiences for faculty and staff across the district.

Keith Scott

Director of Facilities Maintenance, Henry County Public Schools

Keith Scott's background in the HVAC field helped to pave the way for the environmental responsibility his team has adopted. As Director of Facilities Maintenance, he oversees the daily operation and maintenance of seventeen sites.

Moderator

Ray Kohl

Board Chair, Galax City

Thursday November 15, 2018 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
Liberty

Breakout Session

11:30am EST

School Safety & Security Liability: What You Need to Know

In a changing world that includes dangerous and violent threats, our school leaders, administration, and staffs must work harder than ever to meet safety requirements and provide a secure learning environment. In response to these threats, Virginia school boards are weighing various options of providing essential safety and security for our students. In this session, VACORP staff will discuss the options you have to secure your schools, the proper safeguards you need to take to protect your school division from liability, and best practices being used by school divisions across the Commonwealth to improve safety.

Moderators

Sanford Williams

Board Chair, Manassas City

Speakers

David Brooks

Deputy Administrator, VACORP

David Brooks has over 20 years of experience in school risk management and loss prevention. David and his team currently manage safety and risk control delivery to over one hundred school divisions participating in VACORP. He specializes in management training, injury prevention... Read More →

Chris Carey

Administrator, VACORP

Chris is responsible for administrative oversight of the VACORP group self-insurance risk pool. Serving over 450 counties, cities, towns, school divisions, regional jails, CSBs, and authorities in Virginia, the Pool provides property, general liability, automobile, errors & omissions... Read More →

Nancy Sullivan

Legal Counsel, VACORP

Nancy Sullivan is Legal Counsel for VACORP. She is a graduate of the University of Delaware and a 1986 graduate of T.C. Williams School of Law at the University of Richmond. Nancy has been providing legal counsel for Virginia public school divisions for fourteen years.

Thursday November 15, 2018 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
Colony A/C

Breakout Session

11:30am EST

Workforce Readiness Award Winners

During the months of January and February the VSBA requested award-winning Excellence in Workforce Readiness proposals on how school divisions best prepare students through innovative programs for Workforce Readiness. In March, thirty-five school divisions presented their programs for 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: Carroll County – “Agriculture Science (Food Safety Initiative)”; Montgomery County – “Building Capacity for Work-Based Learning Experiences”; and Hampton City – “Academies of Hampton”. Come, see and learn what these school divisions have done and what your school division can also implement.

Speakers

Veronica Hurd

Academies of Hampton Director, Hampton City

Dr. Mark Miear

Superintendent, Montgomery County

Randy Webb

Teacher, Carroll County

Moderator

James Meyer

At-Large Member, VSBA Board of Directors

Thursday November 15, 2018 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
Piedmont C

Breakout Session, CTE/Workforce Readiness

11:30am EST

Workplace Discrimination: EEOC Traps for Boards and Superintendents to Avoid

In today’s world for education leaders, it’s critical that board members and superintendents have a solid understanding about traps that await their school divisions when it comes to employment discrimination charges filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). A strategic and tactical grasp of how things work—and don’t work—in what can be a demanding experience in dealing with EEOC charges can make the difference for the entire organization. In this session, you’ll get a foundation and advanced lessons from an experienced legal counsel and human resources professional, who draw on their individual and collective years of managing the risks and finding opportunities even with the very large federal government agency which investigates discrimination complaints under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. While the session will include presentations and real-life examples, it will offer interactive exchanges that provide ample opportunity for questions and discussion at both the governance and management levels.

Speakers

Francine Bouldin

Executive Director of Human Resources & Employee Services, Chesterfield County Public Schools

Francine Bouldin has served as a human resource practitioner for 25 years. She has worked in state and local government and has been employed at the HR Director level for schools for the past 19 years. Mrs. Bouldin currently serves as Executive Director of Human Resources & Employee... Read More →

Doug Guynn

Attorney, BotkinRose PLC

Doug Guynn is a frequent VSBA legal presenter and is with The Virginia Education Law Group of the BotkinRose law firm based in Harrisonburg. Mr. Guynn and Lindsay Brubaker, his partner, recently presented at the VSBA School Law Conference. He has handled numerous EEOC proceedings... Read More →

Moderator

Janet Turner-Giles

Vice-Chair, Nelson County School Board

Thursday November 15, 2018 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
Colony D/E

Breakout Session, School Law

12:30pm EST

Lunch

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

Thank you to our sponsor, McGraw Hill Education

Sponsors

McGraw Hill Education

Thursday November 15, 2018 12:30pm - 2:00pm EST
Colony Foyer

Lunch

12:45pm EST

Board Governance “Ted Talk”

Hear three school divisions share ideas, tips, and best practices in Board Governance and Strategic Planning in three- 20 minute sessions, presented in the style of a Ted Talk. This presentation style involves personal stories that will take the attendees on a journey through successful board governance and strategic planning in a quick and concise manner.

Speakers

Dr. Jared Cotton

Superintendent, Chesapeake City Public Schools

Strategic Planning: The Board’s Critical RoleChesapeake PublicStrategic Planning: The Board’s Critical RoleChesapeake Public Schools’ Superintendent, Dr. Jared A. Cotton, and School Board Chairman, Ms. Victoria L. Proffitt, will discuss the role of the School Board during the... Read More →

Tyrone Foster

VSBA President-Elect, Bristol City School Board

Dr. Keith Perrigan

Superintendent, Bristol City Public Schools

Victoria L. Proffitt

Board Chairmen, Chesapeake City

Chesapeake Public Schools’ Superintendent, Dr. Jared A. Cotton, and School Board Chairman, Ms. Victoria L. Proffitt, will discuss the role of the School Board during the strategic planning process and share an update on their current progress.

Dr. James Smith

Superintendent, Richmond County Public Schools

Thursday November 15, 2018 12:45pm - 1:45pm EST
Tidewater A/B

Lunch & Learn, Board Governance

12:45pm EST

Focusing on Sustainability of Teachers Through Adaptation and Innovation

The presentation will have an interactive component in the latter part of the presentation, but will begin with a description of the current state of public education, views and data from national education experts. We’ll provide ample evidence that if we don’t take significant action now, our incredibly valuable resource, the American teacher, will indeed become extinct. We cannot afford the implications of losing our public education system, a great American institution, which offers a very special individual opportunity to all for success. It has surely played an important role in the success of our citizens and our country. The personal touch of a teacher, and bond forged in the classroom, cannot be replaced by artificial intelligence, virtual teachers, on-line curriculum and other advanced technology.

Speakers

Russell Leboff

VP of Business Development, ESS

Eighteen years experience in senior level business development in Virginia where he lives, works and has enjoyed eight of those years supporting educators to develop resource solutions that benefit Virginia school districts. Previous business leadership roles include BellSouth, T-Mobile... Read More →

Dr. David White

Superintendent, King William County Public Schools

Over twenty years education leadership experience while living and working in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Previous leadership roles include Stafford County Public Schools, Westmoreland County Public Schools, Fredericksburg City Schools and the University of Mary Washington. His... Read More →

Thursday November 15, 2018 12:45pm - 1:45pm EST
Patriot

Lunch & Learn

12:45pm EST

Partnering with Industry: Strategic CTE Programs and Job Opportunities for Students

Learn how your peers are developing strategic CTE programs with industry to create job opportunities for students. Developing lab spaces, coordinating on curricula development, mentoring and internships are just a few of the examples. One example that will be shared…Louisa County is developing a “warehouse style” construction process for tiny houses incorporating stages for framing, wiring, plumbing, HVAC, drywall, painting and trim work. Houses will be sold and revenue used to buy material for the next house. Find out more about these examples and more by joining this Lunch and Learn.

Moderators

Daryl Bishop

Solutions Account Manager, Trane

Speakers

James “Bo” Bundrick

Director of CTE Program, Louisa County

Matthew Senters

Area Service Manager, Former CTE Student, Trane

Frank “Will” Willis

Master HVAC Mechanic/Master Plumber/Instructor, Director of CTE, Chesterfield County

Thursday November 15, 2018 12:45pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont C

Lunch & Learn, Schools in Challenging Environments

12:45pm EST

The JASON Experience for Districts: Engage Your Community, Students, and Parents in Scientific Thinking and Activity Through JASON Learning

A building block for career pathways is scientific literacy. In order to engage your community and all students in project-based learning designed to increase scientific literacy, it takes rigor and relevance, Superintendent and School Board Leadership. The JASON District Experience helps give opportunity to all students. Here are how two District Leaders have reached out to their community with JASON.

Speakers

Dr. Elie Bracy

Superintendent, Portsmouth Public Schools

A lifelong educator, Dr. Elie Bracy, III serves as Division Superintendent for Portsmouth Public Schools. Dr. Bracy began working for the division in February 2015, bringing with him more than 20 years of experience as guidance counselor and school administrator.

Dr. Gwendolyn Shannon

Superintendent, Southampton Public Schools

Dr. Gwendolyn Page Shannon has served as Southampton County Public School's Superintendent since 2016. She has been a member of the education community for 21 years.

Dr. Eleanor Smalley

President and CEO, JASON Learning

Eleanor Smalley is the President and Chief Executive Officer of JASON Learning. Dr. Smalley has returned to JASON after working at the University of Virginia for the Darden Curry Partnership for Leaders in Education, aligning leadership and business practices between state and district... Read More →

Moderator

Beckie Cox

Board Member, Pulaski County

Thursday November 15, 2018 12:45pm - 1:45pm EST
Liberty

Lunch & Learn

12:45pm EST

Virginia High School League Updates: Alignment, Budget, Robotics, Sportsmanship and the NFHS Network

In this session, Billy Haun, the VHSL Executive Director, will provide updates and answer questions on current VHSL issues. Alignment, the process of developing a plan for assigning schools to districts, regions and classifications based on average daily membership, developing a budget that meets the needs of the League, adding robotics as a recognized VHSL activity and improving player and coach sportsmanship in VHSL activities are topics currently being discussed by the Membership and Executive Committee. The NFHS Network celebrates and showcases the unique accomplishments of students, whether they are a student-athlete participating in the 27 different sports covered by the Network, or one of the student broadcasters from schools around the country that produce events through the School Broadcast Program.

Speakers

Dr. Billy Haun

Executive Director, Virginia High School League

In July 2016, Dr. John W. “Billy” Haun became the Executive Director of the Virginia High School League (VHSL). Dr. Haun brings 36 years of education experience and leadership to the VHSL. He worked for 17 years in the Commonwealth of Virginia as a middle and high school teacher... Read More →

Moderator

Beth Hardy

Vice Chair, Goochland County

Thursday November 15, 2018 12:45pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont B

Lunch & Learn

12:45pm EST

VSBA Captive Alternative Health Plan: Public Schools Join Forces to Stabilize Costs

Join BPA in a panel discussion about alternative healthcare plans and how they can benefit you and your family. Hear from current Captive members, engage in an overview about the Captive Purpose and speak to experts to help answer your questions.

Segment 1: Panel of current Captive members
Segment 2: Overview of the Captive Purpose
Segment 3: Q&A

Speakers

Dr. James Blevins

Consultant, Benefit Plan Administrators

Dr. Jim Blevins: Jim is the benefit consultant for BPA. Jim engages the school leadership on the opportunities with the VSBA captive insurance model.

Charles Clement

Captive Advisor, Elite Captive Strategies

Charles Clement: Chuck focuses on introducing the school systems leadership to the Captive model, consults on the transition process, organizes the enrollment and captive implementation.

Morris Masinter

President, Benefit Plan Administrators

Morris Masinter: President of BPA providing the third-party administration infrastructure and team to support the implementation of all aspects of the VSBA Captive strategy.

Thomas Wagner

Captive Manager, Elite Captive Strategies

Thomas Wagner: Thomas is the Captive Manager for VSBA Captive strategy. He interfaces directly with Berkley Life and Health Company for reinsurance and captive organizational expertise.

Thursday November 15, 2018 12:45pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont A

Lunch & Learn

2:00pm EST

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 2019 Virginia General Assembly.

Thursday November 15, 2018 2:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Colony D/E

Delegate Assembly

2:00pm EST

VASS Training Seminar for Superintendents

Thursday November 15, 2018 2:00pm - 4:30pm EST
Tidewater A/B

VASS Training Seminar for Superintendents

2:30pm EST

Education Law in the Courts

Various school boards across the country have ended up in court in 2018. Come join us to hear about recent caselaw involving disputes about special education, employment, and student rights in the public schools.

Speakers

Nikki Cheuk

School Board Attorney, SandsAnderson

Nikki 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 perspectives... Read More →

Bradford King

School Board Attorney, SandsAnderson

Brad 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 →

Moderator

Amy McClure

Lunenburg County

Thursday November 15, 2018 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Allegheny

Breakout Session, School Law

2:30pm EST

Getting to the SOUL of Learning for Students with Disabilities- The Student Overview for Uncovering Learning

The Student Overview for Uncovering Learning (SOUL) processes helps educational stakeholders understand the "why" behind the disability. SOUL supports educational planning teams in utilizing the psychological information strategically to align instructional strategies, interventions, placements, services and accommodations. SOUL uncovers the impacts of brain based challenges to support classroom instructional delivery, behavior management, and a collaborative relationship between school and home for improved outcomes for students.

Speakers

Tedra Richardson

Executive Director of Student Support Services, Spotsylvania County Public Schools

Ms. Richardson has been in the field of Special Education for 22 years. She has served school divisions in Florida and Virginia. She has served Spotsylvania County Public Schools for the past 11 years and supports all aspects of student learning and support needs across the divis... Read More →

Moderator

Diana Williams

Vice Chair, Waynesboro City

Thursday November 15, 2018 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Piedmont A

Breakout Session

2:30pm EST

Hip Hop: A Bridge to The Future For Our Youth

This dynamic training session assists with bridging the gap between teachers and their African American and Latino male students while offering new concepts on how to connect with today's youth in the classroom. The workshop is impactful for teachers and school leaders who desire a better comprehension of the influence that pop culture, music, and media have on African American and Latino boys. During the session we explore some of the stereotypes that are portrayed in the media and examine how they affect learning and achievement. We will also shed light on how to use positive elements from pop culture to reach goals in the classroom and increase the graduation rate for African American and Latino males.

Moderators

Renee Hughes

Member, Danville City School Board

Speakers

Dion Chavis

Founder and CEO, The Glad Dad, LLC

As a speaker and trainer Mr. Chavis has successfully delivered over 500 trainings and workshop presentations in eight different states during his career. An accomplished media professional, author and trainer who uses his voice to help guide the lives of today’s youth while also... Read More →

Thursday November 15, 2018 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Liberty

Breakout Session

2:30pm EST

Kindergarten Through Cap & Gown: A Small Division’s Reinvigorated Focus on Career & Life Readiness

New Kent County Public Schools (NKCPS) has redefined the skills and knowledge of a college, career, and life ready graduate. Students will show mastery by demonstrating the elements of our Portrait of a Graduate. NKCPS has built a framework and delivery models outlining what, when, how, and where competencies are embedded into K-12 curriculum. Students are equipped to make informed career decisions and to apply 21st century skills for increased employability. We will be discussing the process to create and implement a common framework supported by our school community.

Speakers

Dr. Byron Bishop

Executive Director of Curriculum & Instruction, New Kent County Public Schools

Byron is the Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction for New Kent County Public Schools. He has 22 years of experience in education and currently supports the College, Career, & Life Readiness initiative.

Dr. David Myers

Superintendent, New Kent County Public Schools

Dave is entering his 5th year as the Superintendent of New Kent County Public Schools. Dave has had diverse experiences leading high schools and school divisions in suburban, urban, and rural communities over the past 23 years.

Peggy Spiak

College, Career, & Life Readiness Coordinator, New Kent County Public Schools

Peggy is the College, Career, & Life Readiness Coordinator for New Kent County Public Schools. She brings nearly 20 years of experience on the college and K-12 levels to this innovative position. Expanding student opportunities for career and life skills development is her greatest... Read More →

Moderator

Leah Puryear

Board Member, Charlottesville City

Thursday November 15, 2018 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Patriot

Breakout Session, CTE/Workforce Readiness

2:30pm EST

Make Your Strategic Plan Come Alive Through Focus Documents

Imagine a school division where the strategic plan comes alive through the shared development and implementation of deeper learning focus documents. Discover a collaborative process that results in the creation of one-page focus documents that encapsulate the division's vision, mission and strategic plan. Focus documents such as the Instructional Framework drive professional development, planning, instruction and reflection. The focus documents provide clarity and direction for strategic plan implementation and align with the Profile of a Graduate.

Moderators

Sharon Y. Carter

Member, Lynchburg City

Speakers

Susan Goetz

Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction, Isle of Wight County Schools

Mrs. Susan Goetz serves as the Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction with Isle of Wight County Schools.

Michael Lombardo

Assistant Superintendent, Isle of Wight County Schools

Mr. Michael Lombardo serves as the Assistant Superintendent for Isle of Wight County Schools.

Dr. James Thornton

Division Superintendent, Isle of Wight County Schools

Dr. James Thornton serves as the Division Superintendent for Isle of Wight County Schools. Dr. Thornton has done extensive work with the implementation of deeper learning methodology and innovative learning environments.

Thursday November 15, 2018 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Piedmont B

Breakout Session

2:30pm EST

School Safety In Virginia: An Overview of Legislation, Training, and Resources

The Virginia Center for School and Campus Safety at the Department of Criminal Justice Services will overview relevant legislation, training, and resources available to constituents across the Commonwealth. Research and data on school climate, threat assessment, and SROs/SSOs will also be discussed.

Speakers

Donna Michaelis

Manager, Virginia Center for School and Campus Safety

Donna Michaelis has been working in the area of school safety since 1985. She began her career with the Chesterfield County Police Department and in 1998, she joined the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. Mrs. Michaelis has been directing the Center since its inception... Read More →

Moderator

Barbara Pittman

Board Member, Dinwiddie County

Thursday November 15, 2018 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Tidewater C/D

Breakout Session

2:30pm EST

Take Your Governance Meetings to the Next Level

Plan for your Board’s success today and well into the future with online collaborative tools like strategic goal tracking, policy, library features and more. Learn how a board management solution can help your district track progress for strategic goals, plans and projects all in one convenient location and maintain valuable transparency for stakeholders and the community. Transform the governance process by building intuitive reports, while aligning goals and projects to Board agenda and action item for highly productive governance meetings.

Speakers

Dick Willis, Jr

Board Member, Roanoke City Public Schools

Mr. Willis was appointed to his third three-year term and has served as a Trustee since July 2011. He is Vice President of Engineering at FlexMetrics (a division of SoftSolutions, Inc.) Mr. Willis earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering at the... Read More →

Andrew Klein

eGovernance Specialist, BoardDocs

Andrew Klein, a Governance Advisor for BoardDocs, has been working in this space for just over 3 years. As someone who is enthusiastic about education, technology, and the environment, BoardDocs was a perfect fit. When he’s not working to streamline governance processes, you can... Read More →

Moderator

Dora Gardner

Board Member, Mecklenburg County

Thursday November 15, 2018 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Piedmont C

Breakout Session, Board Governance

2:30pm EST

WorkForce Connect- Connecting Our Students with the Local Business Community

This session will explore how Spotsylvania County Public Schools has successfully implemented a regional career-readiness event. Coordinated by Rene and Amber, this event involves the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce, 40+ local businesses, five school divisions, and over 500 students. The event has proven to be a GREAT skill development and networking opportunity for both businesses and high school juniors and seniors.

Speakers

Amber Belako

Communications Specialist & Grant Writer, Spotsylvania County Public Schools

Amber Belako worked in the business sector prior to joining Spotsylvania County Public Schools in 2003. Over the past 15 years, she has served SCPS in several capacities. She began her education career as a high school business and marketing teacher, then served as a high school assistant... Read More →

Rene Daniels

Director of Communications & Community Engagement, Spotsylvania County Public Schools

René P. Daniels is the Director of Communications and Community Engagement for Spotsylvania County Public Schools (SCPS), the 13th largest school division in the Commonwealth of Virginia. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communication from the University of North Florida and... Read More →

Moderator

Eli Jamison

Board Member, Roanoke City

Thursday November 15, 2018 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Colony A/C

Breakout Session, CTE/Workforce Readiness

3:45pm EST

Developing Your Own Criteria for Evaluating and Selecting Technology Solutions

School leadership is constantly bombarded by new possibilities, platforms, and offerings from technology while at the same time working through challenges that require technological solutions. How can we ensure that evaluating and selecting technology actually helps to get the right solutions in place and that we end up with the ideal product for our district and our staff/students? In order to help you make the best decision, you will learn about processes and questions that will help wade through the myriad of choices and develop your own criteria for technology selection in your division.

Moderators

Steve Koleszar

Member, Albemarle County School Board

Speakers

Jeffrey Faust

Director of Technology, Charlottesville City Schools

Jeff Faust is Currently serving as Director of Technology for Charlottesville City Schools in Charlottesville, Virginia where he oversees vision, strategy, design and support for initiatives and technology systems across the division. Jeff has spent time as a classroom teacher, in... Read More →

Thursday November 15, 2018 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Patriot

Breakout Session

3:45pm EST

FCPS 101: A Simple Approach to Developing Public School Advocates

Frederick County Public Schools launched the FCPS 101 Community Engagement Program in 2018 in an effort to develop a group of advocates to help counteract a growing number of individuals/groups using disinformation in an attempt to devalue public education and question many of the capital projects and initiatives being undertaken by the School Board. The program, which received a 2018 Golden Achievement Award from National School Public Relations Association, led to parents and other community leaders coming together to advocate on behalf of the school division. In addition to providing an overview of FCPS 101, the presenters will offer practical steps Board members and school staff can use to quickly and effectively begin their own community engagement program.

Speakers

Steve Edwards

Coordinator of Policy and Communications, Frederick County Public Schools

Steve Edwards was named Frederick County Public Schools Coordinator of Policy and Communications in 2006 after working nearly 20 years in the news media as well as the marketing, public relations and fundraising fields. Mr. Edwards’ work has been recognized with numerous awards... Read More →

Dr. David Sovine

Superintendent, Frederick County Public Schools

Dr. David T. Sovine is in his eighth year serving as the Superintendent of Frederick County Public Schools. During his tenure, the school division has revised its Division Strategic Plan and launched a number of innovative programs in support of the plan including balanced literacy... Read More →

Moderator

Teresa Ellison

Member, Buena Vista City

Thursday November 15, 2018 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Tidewater C/D

Breakout Session

3:45pm EST

Hidden Roots of Discontent with Public Schools

“There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root.” -Henry David Thoreau

The truth is that public schools are good as or better than they have ever been— so why the national negativity surrounding them? Why do groups of elected officials, 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 roots of the problem. It’s not low test scores or dwindling discipline or selfish unions or partisan politics or decaying families. You’ll be surprised at the public myth that drives negativity about public schools.

Speakers

Dr. John Draper

National Consultant, National School Public Relations Association

John Draper has enjoyed a wide variety of experiences in his lifetime. For the last 30+ years he has been middle and high school teacher, assistant principal, middle and high school principal, Executive Director of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools, CEO of the Educational... Read More →

Thursday November 15, 2018 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Colony A/C

Breakout Session, Schools in Challenging Environments

3:45pm EST

It’s Not Complicated It’s Culture

This presentation talks about the steps/process involved in changing the culture from a negative to positive and that its not complicated but it does require hard work. I take attendees through the story of how we began to change the culture of our middle school through persistent hard work that anyone can do. What you find asking yourself at the end of the presentation is not if you can change the culture of your school but why you haven't yet.

Speakers

Nick Napolitano

Principal, Fauquier County Public Schools

Nick was an elementary teacher, a high school assistant principal and now a middle school principal and through the journey of each school level has developed an innovative and practical approach to school culture and looks at each interaction as an opportunity to make an impact... Read More →

Moderator

Kenneth Pritchett

Board Member, Petersburg City

Thursday November 15, 2018 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Liberty

Breakout Session

3:45pm EST

Localizing the Profile of a Virginia Graduate

In support of the Commonwealth’s Profile of a Virginia Graduate, Goochland County Public Schools collaborated with a broad range of stakeholders to create their own local Profile of a Goochland Graduate. This work spanned 18 months and included school staff, parents, students, leaders from the military as well as from local business and industry. Division leadership team members worked closely with the school-community’s eight highly active advisory committees, including the CTE advisory committee, gifted advisory, minority student achievement advisory, STEM advisory, and the special education advisory. Goochland’s framework is a strong example of how division’s can personalize the Profile of a Virginia Graduate to reflect the local community, support the school division’s strategic plan, and prepare students to be prepared for success after high school.

Speakers

Dr. Jeremy Raley

Superintendent, Goochland County Public Schools

Dr. Jeremy Raley is entering his third year as Superintendent for the Goochland County Public Schools. Prior to his tenure in Goochland, he served in various capacities for the Shenandoah County Public Schools as a teacher, administrator, and Superintendent. He is a graduate of the... Read More →

Moderator

Helen Payne-Jones

Board Chair, Charles City County

Thursday November 15, 2018 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Allegheny

Breakout Session, CTE/Workforce Readiness

3:45pm EST

Magna Award Winner: Advanced Programs for All

“Advanced Programs for All” was a program designed to expand opportunities for advanced coursework for all students regardless of background. In collaboration with the School Board, Prince William County Schools earned Honor Roll distinction from the College Board and increased the percentage of its seniors, approximately 34%, who graduate having passed a college-level or AP exam. This year, PWCS earned Magna Award recognition for its work in expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Speakers

Michael Mulgrew

Associate Superintendent, Prince William County Schools

Michael Mulgrew serves as the High School Associate Superintendent for Prince William County Public Schools. He has served in this capacity since 2005.

Dr. Steven Walts

Superintendent, Prince William County Public Schools

Dr. Steven L. Walts is in his 14th year as Superintendent of Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS). He has long advocated for opening up advanced courses for all students. During his tenure, PWCS has seen dramatic increases in minority achievement.

Justin Wilk

School Board Member, Prince William County Schools

Justin Wilk serves as the School Board member for the Potomac District. In additional to serving on the School Board, Mr. Wilk has extensive experience as a teacher, educational consultant, and advocate.

Moderator

Paul Grinstead

Board Member, Smyth County

Thursday November 15, 2018 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Piedmont A

Breakout Session

3:45pm EST

Magna Award Winner: Equity for English Learners

Over the past 10 years, Newport News Public Schools has experienced tremendous growth in their English Learner student population. Using a three tiered approach, NNPS has worked to provide strategic supports and resources for EL students, families, and teachers. Please join us as we share our journey towards providing equity for ELs. NNPS Newcomer programming for ELs has been recognized by the NSBA as one of this year’s Magna Grand prize winners.

Moderators

Shelly Simonds

Board Member, Newport News City

Speakers

Brian Nichols

Chief Academic Officer, Newport News Public Schools

Brian Nichols is the Chief Academic Officer for Newport News Public Schools and has a proven record of being an innovative leader and presenter. Over the years, Brian has served as a teacher, teacher leader, principal, and executive director in NNPS and embodies the district's belief... Read More →

April Vazquez

ESL Instructional Supervisor, Newport News Public Schools

April Vazquez has served as the English as a Second Language Instructional Supervisor for Newport News Public Schools for over 5 years. Having previously served as a special education and ESL teacher for NNPS, April is passionate about ensuring that all students are given the opportunity... Read More →

Thursday November 15, 2018 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Piedmont B

Breakout Session

3:45pm EST

To Reinvigorate or To Revitalize: A Case Study in School Facility Decision Making

The session will explore a school division's process in determining if they should replace a school, renovate or revitalize and the key factors that need to be addressed in the decision making process. The case study will be the Powhatan Middle School project in Powhatan, Virginia.

Speakers

Stephen Halsey

Managing Principal, Moseley Architects

Stephen Halsey, AIA, has 27 years of experience in the profession focusing on K-12 education design. He is a Managing Principal in the Richmond office of Moseley Architects. A graduate of the College of Design at North Carolina State University, Stephen is currently Chapter President... Read More →

Dr. Eric Jones

Division Superintendent, Powhatan County Public Schools

Dr. Eric Jones is Division Superintendent for Powhatan County Public Schools. A lifelong educator, Dr. Jones started his career in education in Henrico County as a middle school teacher and moved the administration level after ten years of teaching. Dr. Jones served as an assistant... Read More →

Doug Westmoreland

Vice-President, Moseley Architects

Doug Westmoreland, AIA, has spent the majority of his 40-year career focused on K-12 education facility design. As a Vice-President in the Richmond office of Moseley Architects, Doug has collaborated on facility planning and design with dozens of public school systems. He earned his... Read More →

Moderator

Wanda Bailey

Vice Chair, Mecklenburg County

Thursday November 15, 2018 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Piedmont C

Breakout Session

5:00pm EST

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.

Sponsors

Benefit Plan Administrators

Thursday November 15, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Virginia Room

Reception

7:00pm EST

Interactive Game Night

Join us for fun, and a unique experience, with the Promethean Escape Room. Promethean, a leader in Education Technology, provides an immersive and interactive experience for participants to think outside the box and be creative problem solvers!
Don’t let the fun stop there! A STEM App Arcade will be available to try your hand at interactive and exciting games and activities powered by a Promethean ActivPanel.

Thursday November 15, 2018 7:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Colony Room

8:00am EST

Sit-Down Breakfast

Thank you to our sponsor, VA Lottery!

Sponsors

Virginia Lottery

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00am - 9:00am EST
Virginia Room

Breakfast

8:30am EST

General Session featuring speaker Dr. John Draper

Speakers

Dr. John Draper

National Consultant, National School Public Relations Association

Sponsors

Comcast

Friday November 16, 2018 8:30am - 11:00am EST
Virginia Room

General Session