2019 GSBA/GSSA Annual Conference: Full Schedule

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and Education Equity Expectations

ESSA established the expectation that states, districts and schools develop and implement plans that ensure the equitable delivery of educational services to all children, but especially those that have been underserved, equipping each student with the necessary tools and skills to be successful as they face the demands of the 21st century. What should board members know and be able to do to support the superintendent in addressing student achievement gaps?

This session will highlight the equity journey of four Georgia governance teams: Pike County, Baldwin County, Newton County and Forsyth County. They will focus on steps taken thus far to implement best practices related to major areas such as: 1) access to rigorous learning opportunities; 2) varied ways to measure equity 3) resource equity 4) researched based interventions and equity strategies.

Join the conversation and hear what our public education colleagues are doing within our state as well as nationally to advance student learning for all via a lens on equity.

AGENDA (Subject to change)

8:30-8:45 Welcome & Introductions
Dr. Samuel T. King, GSBA Director of Superintendent Search Services, Training & Curriculum Manager

8:45-9:45 Opening Activity
Dr. Nyah Hamlett, Chief of Staff, Loudoun County, VA
Dr. Tommy Welch, Chief Equity and Compliance Officer, Gwinnett County, GA

9:45-10:30 Governance Team #1
Pike County
10:30-10:45 Reflection

10:45 Break

11:00-11:45 Governance Team #2
Baldwin County
11:45-12:00 Reflection

12:00-1:00 Lunch

1:00-1:45 Governance Team #3
Newton County
1:45-2:00 Reflection

2:00-2:15 Break

2:15-3:00 Governance Team #4
Forsyth County
3:00-3:15 Reflection

3:15-4:00 Closing Activity & Adjournment
Dr. Nyah Hamlett
Dr. Tommy Welch
Dr. Samuel T. King

Speakers

Dr. Samuel King

Board Development Manager, GSBA

Dr. Samuel T. King joined Georgia School Boards Association in July 2016 as Training and Curriculum Manager in School Board Governance. He has 32 years of public education experience. Prior to retiring in 2015, he served as Superintendent of Rockdale County Schools, Georgia and Norfolk... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2019 8:30am - 4:00pm EST
Habersham Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

Pre-Conf Workshops

8:30am EST

Finance Workshop- Highlands (1st Floor)

Feedback Survey

AGENDA (subject to change)

8:30 a.m. GaDOE Financial Risk Assessment Process
9:00 Responsibility of the Board as Policy Makers
9:15 School District Financial Information and the DOE Enhanced Website
9:30 Financial Efficiency Star Rating (FESR)
10:15 Break
10:30 Program Weights and Funding Impacts
Noon Lunch
1:15 p.m. Equalization – Why Don’t We Get It (or Get More)?
2:00 Break
2:15 Millage Rates and the Real Funding Impacts
3:00 Budgeting in an Era of “Full-Funding”
3:15 The QBE Formula: Why Does Everyone Want to Change It?
3:45 Wrap-up & Questions
4:00 Workshop Ends

Speakers

Amy Rowell

Director of Financial Review, GaDOE

Steve Smith

Superintendent, Bleckley County Schools

Marc Wisniewski

Former School Board Member, City Schools of Decatur

Wednesday December 4, 2019 8:30am - 4:00pm EST
Highlands Ballroom 1st Floor Waverly 1st Floor

Pre-Conf Workshops

8:30am EST

Legal Issues Workshop- Grand Ballroom

Feedback Survey

AGENDA (subject to change)

8:30-8:45 a.m. Welcome and Introductions

8:45-9:15 Disciplining Students for Having Sex At School: The Title IX Implications
Presenter: Canon B. Hill, Jones Cork, LLP

9:15-9:45 Title IX: Equity in Sports Returns to the Courts
Presenter: Susan W. Cox, Edenfield, Cox, Bruce

9:45-10:15 Break

10:15-10:45 Protecting Student Athletes: The Role of GHSA, State Law and the Courts
Presenter: Leonard O. Fletcher, Fletcher, Harley, & Fletcher, LLP

10:45-11:15 CBD, Medical Cannabis, Vaping: The Role of the Schools
Presenters: Lester B. Johnson, III, Law Offices of Lester B. Johnson, III, LLC
D. Brian Dennison, Assistant School Board Attorney

11:15-12:00 p.m. Recent Court and State Board Decisions Every Board Member Should Know
Presenter: Phillip L. Hartley, Harben, Hartley & Hawkins, LLP

12:00 -1:15 p.m. Lunch

1:15 – 4:00 All Board Members & Superintendents Session:
Hardtimes County Board of Education
Presenters: Harben, Hartley & Hawkins, LLP

1:00-1:15 Attorneys Only Session: Business Meeting
1:15-2:15 Professionalism
2:15-2:30 Break
2:30-4:30 Litigating Title IX Sexual Harassment from Investigation to Court
4:30 Adjourn

Speakers

Phillip L. Hartley

GSBA General Counsel, Harben, Hartley & Hawkins, LLC

Phillip L. Hartley graduated with honors from the University of Georgia in 1976 and then obtained his J.D. degree with honors from the University of Georgia Law School in 1979. He was a member of the Georgia Law Review, Order of the Coif and Phi Beta Kappa. After law school, he immediately... Read More →

School Law Conference Board Members pdf

Wednesday December 4, 2019 8:30am - 4:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

Pre-Conf Workshops

8:30am EST

Strategic Planning & Community Engagement- Kennesaw Room (1st Floor)

Feedback Survey

Draft Program Agenda
8:30 a.m. Welcome and Introductions

8:40 a.m. Oconee County Schools:
Oconee has focused on being transparent and inclusive of all of their stakeholder feedback in guiding the direction of the plan. Oconee had over 400 attendees at the Community Engagement Meeting and key stakeholders driving the work of the Planning Team.

Presenters: 2019 GSSA Bill Barr Leadership Award Recipient Superintendent Jason Branch & Dr. Claire Buck
Vision Project Component: Culture, Climate and Organizational Efficacy

9:45 a.m. Break

10:15 a.m. Toombs County and Vidalia City Schools:
Toombs County and Vidalia City will share how the planning process worked while looking at the county district going through the process within the same fiscal year as the city district. They will share how they prepared their stakeholders, involved the board in the Planning Team stage and implemented the plans at different times of the year.

Presenters: Superintendents Barry Waller and Garrett Wilcox
Vision Project Component(s): Teaching & Learning, Teaching & Learning Resources

11:20 a.m. GSBA and GLISI:
GSBA and GLISI facilitate strategic improvement planning in school districts all over Georgia. This year alone we have worked with eight school districts from all corners of the state and in systems that have as few as 1,100 students and as many as 100,000+. Through this process we are able to integrate the research-based recommendations of The Georgia Vision Project to leverage improvement in every component from teaching and learning to maintenance and operations. Planning and Action Team Steps defined.

Presenters: Lynita Jackson, GSBA and Dr. Jennie Welch, GLISI
Vision Project Components: Teaching & Learning, Teaching and Learning Resources, Human & Organizational Capital, Early Learning & Student Success, Governance, Leadership & Accountability, Culture, Climate & Organizational Efficacy, Financial Resources and Communications & Messaging

12:00 p.m. Lunch

1:15 p.m. Richmond County Schools:
Richmond County Schools began their planning process as the Superintendent was transitioning to another position. They will share how the focus of the board and staff ensured that the plan aligned with Richmond’s vision and emphasis on Student Achievement. The plan serves as the blueprint that will guide the work of the district for the next 5 years.

Presenters: Accountability Team Members Dr. LaToya Doby-Holmes and Matea Chavous
Vision Project Component: Governance, Leadership & Accountability

2:15 p.m. Break

2:30 p.m. DeKalb County Schools:
DeKalb County Schools restructured their Planning Process to include the Board Members as the leaders of the Community Engagement Process. Each board member was the face of the part of the district that he or she represented. This process allowed the community to see how committed his or her board member was in ensuring the success of every student in DeKalb County.

Presenters: Board Members ? and two other members of the leadership team (Dr. Linda Frazer and Mrs. Rebecca Braaten)
Vision Project Component(s): Teaching & Learning, Teaching & Learning Resources, Human & Organizational Capital

3:30 p.m. Q & A

4:00 p.m. Adjourn

Speakers

Jennie Welch, Ph.D.

VP of Strategy & Finance, GLISI

Lynita Jackson

Strategic Planning Services & Vision Project Manager, Georgia School Boards Association

Lynita Jackson formerly served as the Training and Support Manager for eBOARDsolutions, a subsidiary of the Georgia School Boards Association for the past 9 years. She is currently GSBA's Strategic Planning Services and Vision Project Manager. She has worked with school districts... Read More →

Wednesday December 4, 2019 8:30am - 4:00pm EST
Kennesaw - 1st Floor Waverly 1st Floor

Pre-Conf Workshops

12:00pm EST

Attendees Lunch

Feedback Survey

Lunch may be eaten in workshop rooms and in the atrium.

Wednesday December 4, 2019 12:00pm - 1:15pm EST
Various

Pre-Conf Workshops, Lunch

12:00pm EST

Board Chair Lunch - Galleria Center Rm103

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The Board Chair Lunch is sponsored by AlertPoint Security. Thank you AlertPoint!

Wednesday December 4, 2019 12:00pm - 1:15pm EST
Galleria Center - Rm 103 Galleria Center

Pre-Conf Workshops, Lunch

12:00pm EST

New Board Members Lunch - Chancellor I & II

In addition to sponsoring the Leading Edge Awards, AlertPoint Security is also sponsoring the Governance Team of the Year Banquet and the Youth Advisory Council for the conference. As part of the Pre-Conference events, AlertPoint is sponsoring both the Board Chair Lunch and the New Board Member Lunch on Wednesday. Thanks AlertPoint!

Wednesday December 4, 2019 12:00pm - 1:15pm EST
Chancellor I & II Waverly 2nd Floor

Pre-Conf Workshops

1:00pm EST

Exhibit Schedule

Exhibit Schedule

Information Desk/ Exhibit Registration (near the escalators)
Open:
Wednesday, December 4, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday, December 5, 7 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Friday, December 6, 7 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Exhibit Move In: Any time after 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 4 but before 7:00 a.m., Thursday, December 5

Exhibit Show Hours:
Thursday, December 5, 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Friday, December 6, 7:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Exhibitors Breakdown: December 6, Friday, 11:45 a.m.

Freeman Exhibit Services Breakdown: December 6, Friday, 1:30 p.m. - until

Wednesday December 4, 2019 1:00pm - Friday December 6, 2019 11:45am EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

1:15pm EST

Educational Equity Workshop - Afternoon

Feedback Survey

Educational Equity Agenda

Afternoon AGENDA (Subject to change)

12:00-1:00 Lunch

1:00-1:45 Governance Team #3
Newton County
1:45-2:00 Reflection

2:00-2:15 Break

2:15-3:00 Governance Team #4
Forsyth County
3:00-3:15 Reflection

3:15-4:00 Closing Activity & Adjournment
Dr. Nyah Hamlett, Chief of Staff, Loudoun County, VA
Dr. Tommy Welch, Chief Equity and Compliance Officer, Gwinnett County, GA
Dr. Samuel T. King, GSBA Director of Superintendent Search Services, Training & Curriculum Manager

Wednesday December 4, 2019 1:15pm - 4:00pm EST
Habersham Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

Pre-Conf Workshops

1:15pm EST

Finance Workshop - Afternoon

Feedback Survey

Noon Lunch
1:15 p.m. Equalization – Why Don’t We Get It (or Get More)?
2:00 Break
2:15 Millage Rates and the Real Funding Impacts
3:00 Budgeting in an Era of “Full-Funding”
3:15 The QBE Formula: Why Does Everyone Want to Change It?
3:45 Wrap-up & Questions
4:00 Workshop Ends

Speakers

Steve Smith

Superintendent, Bleckley County Schools

Marc Wisniewski

Former School Board Member, City Schools of Decatur

Wednesday December 4, 2019 1:15pm - 4:00pm EST
Highlands Ballroom 1st Floor Waverly 1st Floor

Pre-Conf Workshops

1:15pm EST

Legal Issues Workshop - Afternoon (Attorneys Only)

Feedback Survey

Tentative Agenda

1:00-1:15 p.m. Attorneys Only Session: Business Meeting

1:15-2:15 p.m. Professionalism

2:15-2:30 p.m. Break

2:30-4:30 p.m. Litigating Title IX Sexual Harassment from Investigation to Court
Presenters: Victoria Sweeny, Thompson, Sweeny, Kinsinger & Pereira, P.C.
Russell A. Britt, Hall Booth Smith, P.C.
Torin Togut

4:30 p.m. Adjourn

Wednesday December 4, 2019 1:15pm - 4:00pm EST
Chancellor I & II Waverly 2nd Floor

Pre-Conf Workshops

1:15pm EST

Legal Issues Workshop - Afternoon (Board Members & Superintendents)

Feedback Survey

1:15 – 4:00 p.m. All Board Members & Superintendents Session:
Hardtimes County Board of Education
Presenter: Harben, Hartley & Hawkins, LLP

Speakers

Phillip L. Hartley

GSBA General Counsel, Harben, Hartley & Hawkins, LLC

Wednesday December 4, 2019 1:15pm - 4:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

Pre-Conf Workshops

1:15pm EST

Strategic Improvement Planning - Afternoon

Feedback Survey

Noon Lunch

1:15 p.m. Richmond County Schools:
Richmond County Schools began their planning process as the Superintendent was transitioning to another position. They will share how the focus of the board and staff ensured that the plan aligned with Richmond’s vision and emphasis on Student Achievement. The plan serves as the blueprint that will guide the work of the district for the next 5 years.

Presenters: Accountability Team Members Dr. LaToya Doby-Holmes and Matea Chavous
Vision Project Component: Governance, Leadership & Accountability

2:15 p.m. Break

2:30 p.m. DeKalb County Schools:
DeKalb County Schools restructured their Planning Process to include the Board Members as the leaders of the Community Engagement Process. Each board member was the face of the part of the district that he or she represented. This process allowed the community to see how committed his or her board member was in ensuring the success of every student in DeKalb County.

Presenters: Board Members ? and two other members of the leadership team (Dr. Linda Frazer and Mrs. Rebecca Braaten)
Vision Project Component(s): Teaching & Learning, Teaching & Learning Resources, Human & Organizational Capital

3:30 p.m.    Q & A

4:00 p.m.     Adjourn

Speakers

Lynita Jackson

Strategic Planning Services & Vision Project Manager, Georgia School Boards Association

Wednesday December 4, 2019 1:15pm - 4:00pm EST
Kennesaw - 1st Floor Waverly 1st Floor

Pre-Conf Workshops

6:30pm EST

Governance Team of the Year Banquet - by Invitation Only

Wednesday December 4, 2019 6:30pm - 9:00pm EST
Habersham Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

7:00am EST

Continental Breakfast - Sponsored By: GSBA's Risk Management Services

Sponsored By: GSBA's Risk Management Services

Thursday December 5, 2019 7:00am - 8:00am EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

7:00am EST

Exhibits Open

Exhibits open all day Thursday and until 11:45 a.m. on Friday.
Stop by and see what they have to offer!

Exhibit Schedule

Information Desk/ Exhibit Registration (near the escalators) Open:
Wednesday, December 4, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. (Set up)
Thursday, December 5, 7 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Friday, December 6, 7 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Exhibit Move In: Any time after 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 4 but before 7:00 a.m., Thursday, December 5

Exhibit Show Hours:
Thursday, December 5, 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Friday, December 6, 7:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Exhibitors Breakdown: December 6, Friday, 11:45 a.m.

Freeman Exhibit Services Breakdown: December 6, Friday, 1:30 p.m. - until

Thursday December 5, 2019 7:00am - 4:30pm EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

7:00am EST

Registration Open

Thursday December 5, 2019 7:00am - 4:30pm EST
GSBA Registration Booth Waverly 2nd Floor

Registration

7:30am EST

Voluntary Time of Inspiration

Feedback Survey

Thursday December 5, 2019 7:30am - 8:15am EST
Habersham Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

8:30am EST

First General Session

Feedback Survey

Video

Welcome: Frank Griffin, GSBA President

Inspirational Presentation: The Singing Brothers of Stilwell
Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts, Clayton County Schools
Vicorie Brown, Director

Introduction of Governor: Frank Griffin, GSBA President
The Honorable Brian Kemp, Governor, State of Georgia

Possible 2nd Video

Introduction of Panel: Frank Griffin, GSBA President

Panel Discussion: Youth Advisory Council

Speakers

Frank Griffin

Past President, GSBA

Frank Griffin has served as a school board member of Lee County for 15 years. He has served as a Director, the Executive Vice President and the Chief Lending Officer for the Flint Community Bank in Albany, GA, since it was organized in 2006. A lifelong resident of Lee County and a... Read More →

Honorable Brian Kemp, invited

Head of State, Governor

Brian Kemp is a husband, father, businessman, and public servant. On November 6, 2018, he was elected as Georgia's 83rd Governor, earning more votes than any gubernatorial candidate in state history.Governor Kemp built his first business – Kemp Development and Construction Company... Read More →

The Singing Brothers of Stilwell

The Singing Brothers of Stilwell is an extra-curricular organization at Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts located in Jonesboro, Georgia that seeks to provide male students with the opportunity to experience brotherhood, team building, academic support and enhanced musicianship... Read More →

GSBA Youth Advisory Council

Panel of 8 Students

The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) was formed by the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) to give high school students the opportunity to provide meaningful input to school board members. The goal of the feedback is to help aid school board members in their decision making and implementation... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2019 8:30am - 10:30am EST
Grand Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

Conference

10:30am EST

Break and Tour Exhibits

Exhibits open all day Thursday and until 11:45 a.m. on Friday.
Stop by and see what they have to offer!

Exhibit Schedule

Information Desk/ Exhibit Registration (near the escalators) Open:
Wednesday, December 4, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. (Set up)
Thursday, December 5, 7 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Friday, December 6, 7 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Exhibit Show Hours:
Thursday, December 5, 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Friday, December 6, 7:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Exhibitors Breakdown: December 6, Friday, 11:45 a.m.

Freeman Exhibit Services Breakdown: December 6, Friday, 1:30 p.m. - until

Thursday December 5, 2019 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

11:30am EST

Lunch

Invocation:

Governance Team of the Year Recognition

Leading Edge Award Recognition

GSBA Service Pins

Thursday December 5, 2019 11:30am - 12:45pm EST
Grand Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

12:45pm EST

Break and Tour Exhibits

Exhibits open all day Thursday and until 11:45 a.m. on Friday.
Stop by and see what they have to offer!

Exhibitors Breakdown: December 6, Friday, 11:45 a.m.

Freeman Exhibit Services Breakdown: December 6, Friday, 1:30 p.m. - until

Thursday December 5, 2019 12:45pm - 1:30pm EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

1:30pm EST

Second General Session

Feedback Survey

Video

Introduction of Student Speaker: Frank Griffin, GSBA President

Student Speaker: Jadyn Andrews, Burke County High School
Sponsored by: Carroll Daniel Construction (Chris Erwin)

Introduction of Speaker: Ron Hopkins, NSBA District Director & GSBA Treasurer
Beth Branham, NSBA President

Introduction of Speaker: Frank Griffin, GSBA President
Richard Woods, Georgia's School Superintendent

Speakers

Frank Griffin

Past President, GSBA

Ron Hopkins

GSBA Treasurer & Jefferson City Board Member, NSBA District Director

Beth Branham

2019-20 President, NSBA

ElizaBeth “Beth” BranhamBeth Branham, the President of the National School Boards Association (NSBA), is a longstanding school board member and public school advocate. Branham started her career as an educator, teaching English at Brookland-Cayce High School, South Carolina. She... Read More →

Richard Woods

Georgia's School Superintendent

Richard Woods was born in Pensacola, Florida and while growing up in a military family, lived in California, Hawaii and Virginia before moving to Georgia. He graduated from Fitzgerald High School, and went on to receive a Bachelor’s Degree from Kennesaw State University and a Master’s... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2019 1:30pm - 2:30pm EST
Grand Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

Conference

2:30pm EST

Break and Move to Mini-Sessions

Door Prizes (This year door prizes will be given during the mini-sessions Thursday afternoon.)

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:30pm - 2:45pm EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

2:45pm EST

Alternative Education: The New Normal in Public Education- Stately Room

Feedback Survey

Presenter: Marcus Scott IV, president, Georgia Association for Alternative Education

The Georgia Association for Alternative Education provides several services to districts throughout Georgia. We will discuss how effective non-traditional schools and programs can increase CCPRI scores, increase graduation rates, increase attendance rates while decreasing discipline problems.

We will also discuss how we implemented a new alternative program in Savannah Georgia that almost eliminated the need for suspensions, while addressing the psychological, social and mental health issues which may have caused unwanted behaviors. We will explain how we were able to impact student achievement, graduation rates, and maintain discipline with effective leadership strategies through an effective PBIS program, strategic RTI interventions, effective counseling models, providing wrap-around services and building significant relationships while dramatically lowering discipline infractions and eliminating the need for referrals to juvenile court, thus helping to eliminate the School-to-Prison Pipeline in Savannah, Georgia.

Speakers

Marcus Scott, IV

Georgia Association for Alternative Education

Marcus Scott is the current principal of Myers Middle School. Prior to Myers Middle School he was instrumental in starting to innovative alternative programs in Savannah, Georgia called Building Bridges Academy Middle and Building Bridges Academy High. Mr. Scott started his career... Read More →

Alternative Education Standards Handout pdf

gsba AltEdPresentation pptx

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Stately

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

Census 2020- Hallmark Room

Feedback Survey

What You Can Do to Help Everyone Get Counted & Why That Matters to YOUR Community

This session will discuss the importance of the 2020 Census, why it matters to communities all over the state and what local leaders can do to ensure a complete count of all communities with a special focus on the Latinx and immigrant communities .

Moderator: Jerry Gonzalez, GALEO Executive Director

Panelists:

Jerry Gonzalez, Executive Director, Georgia Association of Latino Elected Officials (GALEO) & Co-chair, GA Latino Complete Count Committee
Gigi Pedraza, Executive Director, Latino Community Fund of Georgia & Co-Chair, GA Latino Complete Count Committee
Armando Mendoza - Statistics in School Liaison, U.S. Census Bureau
Gerson Vasquez - Data Visualization Lead, U.S. Census Bureau

Speakers

Jerry Gonzalez

Executive Director, Georgia Association of Latino Elected Officials (GALEO)

Gonzalez is executive director of the Georgia Association of Latino Elected Officials (GALEO). GALEO's mission is to increase civic engagement and leadership of the Latino/Hispanic community across Georgia."I would hope we can spend some time speaking about the need to move from diversity... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Hallmark

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking Policy & Protocol- Kennesaw Room (1st Floor)

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Domestic minor sex trafficking is a billion dollar enterprise and the fastest growing crime against children. Youth who are victims of DMST may not be easily identifiable and may not initially identify as a “victims”. However, a significant number of youth continue to be referred for assessment, treatment, and safe home placement throughout the United States. According to Polaris, national human trafficking hotline, the average age of DMST victims is 14-years of age. This presentation will highlight the importance of Atlanta Public School district developing policies, Atlanta Public Schools Administration developing protocol and teachers being educated about warning signs and risk factors so that they can identify and respond early.

Attendees will also hear from Earnelle P. Winfrey, Esq., Assistant Fulton County District Attorney, Human Trafficking Unit; Tracy Gilbert, Community Affairs Manager, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport; Sebastian Barron, Office of Governor Brian Kemp.

Presentation Overview
Define Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC)
Identify risk factors and warning signs
Identify effects of trauma in students
Define district-wide awareness and response plan
Discuss equitable re-entry plan for CSEC youth
Discuss how to develop an equitable collective impact, policy and protocol
Community Input/ Advocacy

Handouts:

Atlanta Public Schools Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking- Student Support Services Policy
Atlanta Public Schools Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking- Child Abuse- Child Neglect Policy
Sample Atlanta Public Schools Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking Policy
Sample Atlanta Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking Proposed Protocol

Speakers

Erika Mitchell

Board Member, Atlanta Public Schools

Since elected to the Atlanta Board of Education, Erika Mitchell has established herself as one of Atlanta’s most influential public servant. Mitchell is an active board member when it comes to serving her community and she is a strong believer in parent and community engagement... Read More →

Dr. Sharnell Myles, PSY.D., PC, CCTP

Executive Director, JoyUs Beginnings Child & Family Wellness Center & Trauma Institute

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Kennesaw - 1st Floor Waverly 1st Floor

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

Engaging the Community and Implementing Your Strategic Plan- Rondelet Room

Feedback Survey

Presenters: Lynita Jackson, GSBA Strategic Planning Services Manager and
Dr. Jennie Welch, GLISI Vice President of Strategy and Finance

In this session, you will hear how the voices of all of your stakeholders are needed to develop a plan to move your district forward. Using your community’s feedback will help to ensure that your plan is inclusive and transparent.

Speakers

Jennie Welch, Ph.D.

VP of Strategy & Finance, GLISI

Lynita Jackson

Strategic Planning Services & Vision Project Manager, Georgia School Boards Association

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Rondelet

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

How Strong is Your Social-Emotional Muscle as a Leader? Tools to Build Trust, Culture, Safety and Success- Fulton Room

Feedback Survey

“Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.” This quote from James Baldwin points to the need not only to teach children social-emotional skills in the classroom, but for the adults in the system, starting with the school board, to model healthy social-emotional competencies in their everyday interactions with one another and with children. This is not only for the benefit of student well-being. Research is clear that leaders with strong social-emotional competencies are more effective in leading successful teams to achieve results. In this interactive session, participants will explore six research-based social-emotional competencies for leaders. They will engage in candid reflection and dialog on their own strengths, assumptions, and needs for growth. Participants will leave with resources and strategies they can use immediately to grow their SEL muscle.

Speakers

Leslie H Bussey, Ph.D.

CEO/Executive Director, GLISI

Dr. Samuel King

Board Development Manager, GSBA

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Fulton Waverly 2nd Floor

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

Preparing Teachers to Respond to the Impact of Globalization in the Classroom- Habersham

Feedback Survey

The success of students in the United States depends on their ability to access and use tools for living and working in an increasingly interdependent global environment that includes interaction with Africa. These tools include language and culture training as well as understanding the historical and economic connections that the U.S. has with Africa and other parts of the world. In order to provide this training, teachers in all subject areas particularly, social studies and humanities need to deepen their knowledge base to include global perspectives in their lesson plans. What is the School Boards role in ensuring that teachers/ administrators are equipped to address these issues? Thus, the need for expanding international education and addressing the critical global and intercultural issues our students face and will continue to face in this modern time justifying the American Institute for Resource and Human Development’s (AIRHD) strong involvement in promoting global education in general and African Studies in particular.

The panelists are asked to present on the following topics...

How experiences from the AIRHD study abroad opportunities are integrated into the classrooms, their daily lives and outlook on education;

GPA 2019 - Tanzania, Aminata Edwards, 5th Grade Elementary, DeKalb
GPA 2018 - Ghana, Michelle Simmons, AIRHD President, 5th Grade Co-taught, DeKalb
GPA 2017 - Tanzania, Sarah Hunsberger, 5th Grade Elementary, DeKalb

How they use their newfound experiences in managing diversity and multiculturalism in classroom?

GPA 2019 - Tanzania, Beth White, 4th & 5th ESOL Grade Elementary, DeKalb
GPA 2019 - Tanzania, Adrienne Abdul Salaam, 9-11th Dance High, Douglas
GPA 2018 - Ghana, Courtney Mack, 5th Grade Elementary, DeKalb

Describe successes teachers have had in such areas as the extracurricular activities, presentations made to other teachers or groups as a result of their participation in AIRHD Fulbright Hays Group Projects Abroad and how this program transformed their outlook on Africa.

GPA 2019 - Tanzania, Derrick Mosley, 7th Grade Social Studies Middle, Atlanta Public Schools
GPA 2018 - Ghana, Onequa Hampshire, 6th Grade Math Middle, Clayton

How the AIRHD Fulbright Hays Group Projects Abroad experience empowered teachers and transformed their leadership growth and professional development?

GPA 2019 - Tanzania, Kasmarine Ho, 2nd Grade ESOL Elementary, DeKalb
GPA 2018 - Ghana, Sharron Henry, 9th-12th Grade Griffin High, Griffin-Spalding
GPA 2010 - Tanzania, Angela Bass, Executive Director, Mississippi Early Learning Alliance

Speakers

Michelle Simmons

Vice Chair, Douglas County Schools

Michelle Simmons, Vice Chair, Douglas County Schools, has been on the board since January 2015.

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Habersham Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

Safety Planning for School Board Meetings and Hearings- Waverly Room

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Presenter: David Colvard, GSBA/RMS Safety & Risk Control Coordinator

As school board meetings sometimes deal with emotional and controversial topics, this presentation will share tips, suggestions, and best practices to develop or enhance your current safety plans.

Speakers

David Colvard

Safety & Risk Control Coordinator, GSBA

Hired as the safety and risk control coordinator for GSBA in July 2012, Mr. Colvard has over 30 years of experience in public education. During his tenure, he served as a teacher, coach, principal and a safety and athletic director. He holds the following designations: Certified... Read More →

Cliff Cole

Director of Risk Management Services, Georgia School Boards Association

Sponsor of Conference Tote Bags and Friday Continental BreakfastContact Cliff Cole, Director of Risk Management Services at 770-962-2985

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Waverly 2nd Floor

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

Sister Cities Consortium- Chancellor II Room

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Georgia City School Systems have similar leadership challenges and needs. Please plan to convene for a
time of collaboration and networking with other city school system leaders.

Speakers

Dr. Michele Taylor

Superintendent, Calhoun City Schools

Calhoun City Schools has been a part of the Calhoun, Gordon County community for more than one hundred years and there are so many accomplishments that could be shared. A history rich in achievement and honor surrounds this school system. Calhoun City Schools began with a small number... Read More →

Eddie Reeves

Board Chair, Calhoun City Schools

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Chancelor II Waverly 2nd Floor

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

The Role of the Board of Education in Improving Student Achievement- Chancellor I Room

Presenters from Henry County Schools Governance Team:
Josh Hinton, Chair; Holly Cobb, Vice Chair; Annette Edwards, Board Member; Dr. Pam Nutt, Board Member;
Sophe Pope, Board Member; and Dr. Mary Elizabeth Davis, Superintendent

The Henry County BOE will share their journey to driving school improvement and student achievement gains. By using shared beliefs, the Superintendent evaluation instrument, and policies, the Henry County BOE has focused on student growth and student connectivity that is resulting in significant gains on account-ability measures.

Speakers

Henry County Schools Governance Team

The Henry County Schools Governance Team consists of the following:Josh Hilton, Chair, Henry County BOE Holly Gibb, Vice Chair, Henry County BOE Annette Edwards, Board Member Dr. Pam Nutt, Board Member Sophe Pope, Board Member Dr. Mary Elizabeth Davis, Superintendent

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Chancellor I Waverly 2nd Floor

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

Using Flexibility for High School Graduation & Career Development- Tyndall Room

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This session will highlight how districts can use flexibility regarding graduation requirements to enable a student to obtain both a diploma and industry certification to support the student’s chosen career path.

Dr. Sherrie Gibney-Sherman, Superintendent, Foothills Education Charter High School & DOE Charter System Consultant
Dr. Mary Evans, Superintendent, Evans County Schools
Dr. Lynn Plunkett, GA DOE Charter Systems and College & Career Academy Consultant
Frank Pinson, Program Manager, Secondary Education Initiatives, Technical College System of Georgia

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Tyndall

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

Using Simbli to Conduct Your Governance Team Self-Assessment- Galleria Room

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Effective school boards are intentional about making time to reflect on their work and seeking ways to improve. One great way to do that is by conducting an annual self-assessment. A Governance Team Self-Assessment is also a requirement for each of GSBA's board recognition levels (Quality Board, Distinguished Board, and Exemplary Board).

Speakers

Mark Willis

Assistant Executive Director & Chief Operating Officer, Georgia School Boards Association & eBOARDsolutions

Mark Willis serves as Assistant Executive Director of the Georgia School Boards Association. Working with the Association since 1995, Mr. Willis oversees the organizations finances and technology as both CFO and CIO and is COO of the Association’s technology subsidiary eBOARDsolutions... Read More →

Sandra McGuire

Simbli Training and Support Manager, GSBA

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Galleria Waverly 2nd Floor

Mini Sessions

2:45pm EST

Winning the Race to Literacy in Underserved Georgia (through Public-Private Partnerships.)- Brayton Room

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Facilitator: Brad Bryant

Panel:
Comer Yates, Executive Director, Atlanta Speech School
Cindy Hughes, Superintendent, Crisp County Schools
Jerry Parker, Principal, Atlanta Public Schools
Lauren Koontz, President & CEO, YMCA of Metro Atlanta
Noris Price, Superintendent, Baldwin County Schools

Speakers

William Bradley "Brad" Bryant

Vice President, REACH Georgia

About the REACH Georgia Program:REACH Georgia is the State of Georgia’s first needs-based mentorship and college scholarship program. The mission is to ensure that Georgia’s low income, academically promising students have the academic, social, and financial support needed to... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2019 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
Brayton Waverly 2nd Floor

Mini Sessions

3:00pm EST

Rural Task Force - by Invitation Only

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Details to come

Speakers

Angela Palm

Director of Policy and Legislative Services, Georgia School Boards Association

Angela Palm is Director of Policy and Legislative Services for the Georgia School Boards Association. She leads the team assisting local boards with policy issues, review and development and directs the state and federal advocacy programs. Prior to GSBA, Ms. Palm was executive director... Read More →

Justin Pauly

Director of Communications, Georgia School Boards Association

Justin currently serves as the Director of Communications for the Georgia School Boards Association. Prior to GSBA, Justin worked as the Liaison to the Georgia State Board of Education where he was responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the State Board of Education... Read More →

Thursday December 5, 2019 3:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Stanhope, 1st Floor

Mini Sessions

4:30pm EST

Exhibits Close for the Day

Thursday December 5, 2019 4:30pm - 4:45pm EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

5:30pm EST

President's Reception - by Invitation Only

Speakers

Frank Griffin

Past President, GSBA

Thursday December 5, 2019 5:30pm - 6:30pm EST
Stanhope, 1st Floor

7:00am EST

Continental Breakfast

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Exhibits open until 12:00 p.m. on Friday. Stop by and see what they have to offer!

Friday December 6, 2019 7:00am - 8:30am EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

7:00am EST

Exhibits Open

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Exhibits open until 12:00 p.m. on Friday. Stop by and see what they have to offer!

Friday December 6, 2019 7:00am - 12:00pm EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

8:30am EST

Friday AM Session

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Video

Jazz Band, Carrollton City High School
Chris Carr, Director

Introduction of Student Speaker:
Pat Hugley Green, GSBA President Elect

Student Speaker: D. J. Fratt, Forsyth Central High School
Student Speaker Sponsored by RA-LIN

Introduction of Speaker: Frank Griffin

Speaker: Dr. Mike McGough

Personal Leadership: The Art of You Leading You
One of the most significant attributes of successful organizational leaders is a desire and a skill set necessary to be effective personal leaders. This keynote offers practical strategies and techniques to enhance personal leadership. A single core belief is the base upon which this keynote is built. Simply stated, that belief is, “You are not the most powerful person in the world, but you are the most powerful person in your world!” Building on that simple belief, this keynote focuses on personal leadership in three critical areas of daily life. These include: Interpersonal Relationships, Time Management, and Care of the Self.

10:15 a.m. Break & Final Visit with Exhibitors

Speakers

Pat Hugley Green

President, GSBA

Muscogee County Schools board member since 2004, Ms. Hugley Green is the current Vice Chair. She has served in leadership as Board Chair and the Chair of the Audit, Finance, Property & Personnel Committee, and as a member of the Superintendent Search Committee. She has served on the... Read More →

Dr. Michael McGough

Keynote Speaker

Michael R. McGough was a teacher, coach, principal and assistant superintendent in the public schools of Pennsylvania for more than 30 years. In addition to his years in public education, he was a professor of education at York College of Pennsylvania. During his fourteen years at... Read More →

Friday December 6, 2019 8:30am - 10:15am EST
Grand Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

Conference

10:15am EST

Break & Final Visit with Exhibitors

Friday December 6, 2019 10:15am - 11:30am EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

11:30am EST

Awards Luncheon

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Luncheon Agenda:

Welcome & Introduction of GSBA and GSSA Board of Directors, Valarie Wilson, GSBA Executive Director

Student Speaker: LaNya Scott, Oconee County High School
Sponsored by SP Design Group

Invocation: Pat Hugley Green, GSBA President Elect

Lunch

Presentation of Beacon Awards:
Elaine Wilson, Member, Awards Committee; GSBA District 9 Director;
Board Member, Dawson County Board of Education

Print Media Winners

Natalie Davis Linder of The Union Recorder, submitted by Baldwin County Schools
Tim Anderson of The Herald Leader, submitted by Ben Hill County Schools
Marietta Daily Journal (MDJ), submitted by Marietta City Schools

Electronic Media Category

Alisha Evans, "Read to Grow" program, submitted by Bartow County Schools
Zack Fowler of Vidalia Communications, submitted by Vidalia City Schools

Student Video Awards
1st Place – Hart County High School, Hart County Schools
2nd Place – Eastside High School, Newton County Schools
3rd Place – Loganville High School, Walton County Schools
Honorable Mention: Forsyth Central High School, Forsyth County Schools

New Board Member Passport Recognition, Frank Griffin, GSBA President

Recognition of the Georgia Teacher of the Year: Frank Griffin, GSBA President
Tracy Pendley, 2020 Teacher of the Year

Announcement of the Superintendent of the Year Finalists:
Dr. Bronwyn Ragan-Martin, GSSA President & Superintendent, EarlyCounty Schools

Finalists:

Dr. Noris Price, Baldwin County
Dr. Jeff Bearden, Forsyth County
Dr. Mark Scott, Houston County
Dr. Samantha Fuhrey, Newton County

Announcement of the Superintendent of the Year

Door Prizes (This year door prizes will be given during the mini-sessions Thursday afternoon.)

1:30 p.m. Conference Adjourns

Speakers

Conference

12:00pm EST

Exhibits Break Down

Friday December 6, 2019 12:00pm - 12:30pm EST
Garden Court Waverly 2nd Floor

1:15pm EST

Conference Adjourns

The conference will adjourn at the end of the Friday Awards Luncheon.

Friday December 6, 2019 1:15pm - 1:30pm EST
Grand Ballroom Waverly 2nd Floor

Conference