The Board recognizes the need for continuing in-service training and education and encourages the participation of all members at these specific categories of activities as a part of their official duties: conferences, workshops, in-service programs, and conventions, at the local, regional, state, and national levels. A Board member’s actual and necessary expenses shall be paid for or reimbursed when the member attends any of these activities.
In situations where a Board member holds a state or national office in a School Board Association, or has been asked or appointed to serve a School Board Association at the state or national level, the Board shall budget for the additional expenses as agreed to prior to the beginning of each fiscal year.
The Superintendent and Board Secretary shall prepare a calendar of annual conferences, workshops, in-service programs, and conventions which Board members may wish to attend. The Superintendent and Board Secretary shall update the calendar with additional in-service programs for Board members, as the programs become known. The Board shall periodically review the calendar and designate those activities for Board member participation along with limitations as to the number of persons attending specific events.
The Superintendent and Board Secretary are responsible for authorizing requests for attendance of Board members at approved meetings if the requests come within budgeted appropriations and limitations. The Superintendent and Board Secretary shall consult with the Board President in situations where funds may not be available for a specific activity or when a determination is necessary as to who shall attend a given activity when more requests are received than can be honored. The President and Superintendent may bring recommendations to the Board on such matters for final determination.
Funds for participation at all activities shall be budgeted for on an annual basis.
The Board strongly recommends that each Board member take the Certified Board Member classes through the Michigan Association of School Boards Board Member Award Program during the first two years in office.
Expense reimbursement shall be in accord with policy bylaws and procedures on Board reimbursement.