CASB Connections

The Policy Review Process

Is the policy review process somewhat confusing? CASB's Policy Specialists, Kristina Gutierrez and Holly Burg, break it down into steps so you know how to organize your board meeting agenda, who should have input into policy updates, and depending on your board policy BG, how many meetings you are required to have in order to adopt policy and/or policy updates. 

Understanding the Policy Coding System

If you're a new board member you may be a bit overwhelmed with the policy coding system. This podcast shares the why and the what to the system so you can become familiar with your board policies in no time. Make sure to access CASB's top 20 policies board members should know, which is available on our website at www.casb.org.

Meet Colorado's New Commissioner of Education: Susana Cordova

Susana Cordova is Colorado's newest Commissioner of Education and she brings of wealth of education knowledge with her to this position. Susana is not new to Colorado or education. Get to know her and her hopes and dreams for the education system in our state that benefits all students regardless of where they live.

Connecting with Peter Sheahan, CASB's 83rd Annual Convention Keynote Speaker

Peter Sheahan, well known leadership consultant and speaker, is joining CASB for their 83rd Annual Convention on Friday, December 8, 2023 to speak on AI, K12 education, and student mental health. Hear what Peter has in mind for his keynote address and why you should attend.

Creating Your District's Legislative Platform

Join CASB's Communications Specialist, Bryce Reedy, and CASB Board of Directors Member and Englewood School District Board Member, Caty Husbands, as Caty leads you through the steps in creating your legislative platform. This isn't a quick process, but Caty will get you started on the very necessary path of grounding your district in their legislative priorities at the state and federal level. 9 Steps to Effectively Advocate for Public Education

Communication Strategy

Does your district have an updated communications plan in place? Learn how to create a plan or update your current plan regardless of your district's size. We cover the basics starting with knowing your "Why" and moving on to the "What" and "How". We also dive into crisis communication plans. At CASB, we've got you covered with best practices and this practice focuses on your district's communication strategy and plan.

Proposition HH

Join Tracie Rainey, Executive Director at the Colorado School Finance Project, Matt Cook, CASB's Director of Public Policy & Advocacy, Leslie Bogar, CASB's Director of Professional Learning, and Bryce Reedy, CASB's Communications Specialist, as they dive into Proposition HH and everything that goes along with it. Below you will find the resources discussed in the podcast. "Use our calculator to determine what your new property tax bill would be under the Colorado legislature’s relief plan"...

Electric School Bus Grant Program

Join CASB's Communication Specialist Bryce Reedy and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment's Steve McCannon as they discuss the Electric School Bus Grant Program. Steve dives into the requirements for districts, how the grant process works, its potential advantages for reducing pollution, and much more. Colorado Electric School Bus Grant Program Home Page Clean Fleet Vehicle & Technology Grant Program Home Page

Rural Advocacy from the Larger School District Dias

Join Leslie Bogar, CASB's Director of Professional Learning, Lindley McCrary, CASB's President-Elect, and Brian Ewert, Littleton Public Schools Superintendent, as they discuss rural advocacy from the larger school district dias.

Policy Governance

Board Governance. What is it and how many models of school board governance exist? Join Director of Public Policy & Advocacy, Matt Cook, and Policy Specialist Kristina Gutierrez as they dive into all thinks policy governance.

The Role of the Board President

The school board president is responsible for setting the tone and demeanor of the board and so much more. If you are new to this role or have future aspects of running for school board president, the insights and wisdom shared in this podcast are worth listening to. You'll gain insights from Tammie Delaney, Hayden School District school board president, and Karin Reynolds, former school board president for Academy District 20, as they share their experience serving in this important positio...

Student Voice and the Work of the Durango 9-R School Board

Including student voice in the work of the school board takes planning but most of all, it takes students that have an interest in and passion for influencing decision makers in their district. Hear how the Durango 9-R School District implemented student engagement in the work of their board and the effects it has had on the students serving on the board, as well as the district as a whole. Music: Traveling with Corina Long by Lobo Loco

Quorums and Electronic School Board Participation

Engaging Student Voice in the Work of the Board

How do you engage student voice in the work of your board? Hear from three Colorado high school students that have worked hard to share their ideas, as well as work alongside board members and their state education department. You'll pick up insights into how your board can actively engage students in the work of the district and much more. Music: Breathe in the Static by Kirk Pearson

Understanding the Colorado Open Records Act

Want more information on the Why, What, and How of the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA)? Find out why CORA requests are a good thing, as well as best practices to follow when you do receive a request. Music: Soothe by Bodytonic

Onboarding New Board Members Part 4

There are multiple areas new board members should be oriented to in the onboarding process. These include orientation to the board, orientation to board member responsibilities and those of the superintendent, and orientation to the district. This podcast focuses on orientation to the board and the district and the documents and protocols necessary to help your new members get up to speed.

Onboarding New Board Members Part 3: Roles and Responsibilities

Are you a new board member? Do you understand the difference between your role and your board responsibilities? When it comes to the role and responsibilities of the board it is imperative that board members understand what this means to them both individually and collectively. Effective boards know their lane of operation and do their best to stay in that lane. In this podcast you'll learn more about your lane.

Onboarding New Board Members Part 2

Part 2 in this series focuses on sharing the district's vision, mission, and strategic plan process. A shared vision is imperative for a well-functioning board governance team. A vision action plan is necessary in order to move the district forward with the goal of improved student achievement for all students. A vision without a plan is not actionable. Get new board members on the same page by sharing the process up front. Music: Delighted People

Onboarding New Board Members Part 1

Do you have an onboarding plan for your new board members? There's still time to get one in place and this series of Onboarding podcasts will help you get there. Effective boards onboard new members well so they can get to work as a united team. Hear an overview of 11 steps you can begin to discuss with your board members in order to create a great onboarding plan. Music: Gaena by Azalai

The ESSER Tell Your Story Campaign

The Tell Your Story Campaign has been created so that school districts can share relevant first-hand knowledge with their community members in regard to the importance of public education, how the district has and is using the federal stimulus funds, and more.  East Grand School District Superintendent, Frank Reeves, shares his district's story and why it is important for all districts to share their story. CASB has resources to help school districts share the story of how they've utilized...

Governing the Right Way: The Role and Responsibilities of School Board Members

School board members are elected to govern their school district and many times this is much harder than it sounds. It boils down to the role and responsibilities of a school board member and if they choose to follow them or not. Two board presidents share their wisdom and insights gained from years of experience with boards that have stayed within the guardrails, as well as those that have driven through them. Interview with: Sherri Wright and Laura Case: Two board presidents in Colorado ...

The Colorado Youth Congress & Student Voice

The Colorado Youth Congress is a program engaging students across the state in two focused priorities all the while building necessary skills for success after graduation. Learn about the program from three students that have been impacted by their involvement in the organization, as well as influenced the organization's DNA. Music: Downside Up

Colorado Legislative Basics

If you're unfamiliar with how the Colorado legislative session works, don't know quite how a bill becomes a law, need a refresher on some of the terms used during the process, and are unaware of a few of our Colorado state symbols, this podcast will help.  Music: Gaena by Azalai

An Equitable Outcomes Discussion with Bill de la Cruz

The terms Equity and Equitable Outcomes are not one in the same. Bill de la Cruz, personal transformation guru in the field of foundational bias, shares the meaning behind both terms and how school board members and others can move forward in their goal to provide opportunity, access, and inclusion for their students and staff. Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning & Events Music: Algae Trio by Algae Fields

The Colorado Virtual Career Fair: It's Educational!

Don't let your students miss out on the Colorado Virtual Career Fair coming April 2021. It's an educational event not a hiring event. Students, parents, and educators will connect with professionals in a variety of career fields to hear stories of their journeys. The Colorado Virtual Career Fair is seeking panelists as well as student facilitators.  Interview with: Larry Beer, Colorado State Youth Council and Department of the Army Education Services along with Kaream Reid, Colorado State ...

A Conversation with the Colorado Gifted and Talented Student Board

Join the Colorado Gifted and Talented Student Board as they share their board's creation story, the goals the board has set for supporting gifted and talented students, and how they went above and beyond with what the pandemic brought to their doorstep. Allie Lindsey, Sarah Keller, and Zeyta Whitson-Deherrera share the why, how, and what of the work of their board. Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning & Events Music: Energy Drink by Bio Unit  

The Role of an Advocate with Phil Virden

Rural advocacy requires commitment, perseverance, and gumption, which are also necessary characteristics for all school board members. Join Phil Virden, Former CASB Board of Directors President and current Board President for the Hinsdale School District as he shares wisdom in regard to establishing human to human relationships in order to move your advocacy efforts forward.

The Role of an Advocate with Kathy Plomer

The role of an advocate is built upon establishing relationships first and foremost. Adams 12 board president, Kathy Plomer, shares her insights into advocacy based upon years of experience as an advocate for public education. You'll hear why you don't have to be an expert on every single issue in order to be a great advocate. Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning and Event Music: Wingspan by Bayou Birds

The Role of an Advocate with Jan Tanner

As a school board member you are an advocate for public education and students in your district. Former Colorado Association of School Boards Board President, Jan Tanner, shares  insights and practices that will help you in your advocacy role. Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning & Events Music: Wingspan by Bayou Birds

Peak Health Alliance and Saving Districts Money

Peak Health Alliance is a purchasing alliance that provides the ability for districts to save money on employee health insurance. It's Colorado grown and customizable to the needs of community members.  Interview with Tamara Pogue, former CEO for Peak Health Alliance. Host is Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning and Events Music: Molly Molly by Barstool

The Multi-Tiered System of Supports for K12 Schools

Learn the basics of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports, or MTSS, and how school boards can help to promote universal mental health for each and every student. Find out about online training and more. Interview with clinical psychologists Lisa Costello, Ph.D and Catherine Wolcott, Ph.D Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning & Events Music: Faster Faster Brighter

CASB 80th Annual Convention is Virtual!

You don't want to miss our 80th Annual CASB Convention. Although it is virtual, you will gain great board development resources CASB is known for. With over 32 breakout sessions, six general sessions, and networking opportunities, you'll come away with resources to utilize for one full year. Don't delay and register today for our December 4-5, 2020 Convention.

Amendment B: The Gallagher Repeal Unpacked

Join Lisa Weil, Executive Director for Great Education Colorado, and Matt Cook, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy for the Colorado Association of School Boards, as they discuss the Gallagher Amendment and why a repeal is the best way to go for Colorado public education. Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning & Events Music: The Cloud by Lee Rosevere

1st and 2nd Policy Readings

Policy guides the direction of public school board members as they govern their school district. If you need a refresher on the reasoning behind 1st and 2nd readings this Grab and Go podcast provides the information so you can grab what you need to get going as a school board leader.  

Your Social-Emotional Health

School board members typically put themselves last in line when it comes to self-care and we are at a point in time where anxiety and stress are mounting. There is a path forward in self-care and it is grounded in the principle of dignity; our collective belief that each of us has inherent worth and our relationships matter.  Interview with: Cultures of Dignity Co-Founders Rosalind Wiseman and Charlie Kuhn  Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning & Events Music: Lee Ro...

The Coffee Cart Program: A SPED Program

The Coffee Cart program is a job and life skills curriculum for high school special education students with the goal of helping each student seek, obtain, and retain employment after high school. It's a wonderful program bent on making sure students do not become one of the 80% of disabled adults that are unemployed.  Interview with: Julie Lang, Cotapaxi school district board member, attorney & founder of the Gus Belt Family Foundation; Victoria, former Coffee Cart Program student Host: L...

The Coffee Cart Program

The Coffee Cart program is a job and life skills curriculum for high school special education students with the goal of helping each student seek, obtain, and retain employment after high school. It's a wonderful program bent on making sure students do not become one of the 80% of disabled adults that are unemployed.  Interview with: Julie Lang, Cotapaxi school district board member, attorney & founder of the Gus Belt Family Foundation; Victoria, former Coffee Cart Program student Host: L...

Updates on the Education Front

The College Board has changed its mind as far as offering an online SAT test, your body language during a school board meeting may say more than you'd like, and FAFSA applications in Colorado took a dive. Check out these updates on the education front. Music: Bonus Points: Pizza and Video Games

CASB's BuyBoard Purchasing Cooperative Program & PPE

If you are planning on purchasing Personal Protective Equipment for reopening schools in the fall, now is the time to act. CASB's partnership with BuyBoard links you with PPE vendors and it's free to you as a CASB member. Learn more and activate your membership now! Interview with Travis Maese, Assistant National Director for BuyBoard Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning Music: Lee Rosevere

Some Great Stories: 2020 End of Year K12 Ceremonies

It's been a nontraditional and even tough end to the school year and we all need to hear some good stories. Every district has great stories commemorating the end to their year and in this podcast you'll hear stories from Vilas RE-5, Montezuma-Cortez RE-1, Buena Vista, and Cheyenne Mountain District 12. Take a break, settle down, and listen to some good news. Interviews with: John Wittler, Sherri Wright, Suzette Hachmann, John Fogarty Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Lea...

Budgeting During a State Fiscal Crisis 2.0

Now that we’ve heard the interim update on the state revenue forecast and the Joint Budget Committee deliberations, the nature of what school boards must grapple with in order to balance their budget is beginning to crystallize. Join Tracie Rainey, Executive Director for the Colorado School Finance Project, Dave Montoya, Executive Director of Finance, Poudre School District, and Matt Cook, CASB Director of Public Policy and Advocacy, as they discuss the ramifications of what we now know and ...

Initiative 271 Fair Tax Colorado

Learn about Initiative 271 Fair Tax Colorado, which includes benefits to tax payers, education, and much more. Cheri Wrench, CASB Executive Director, Bret Miles, CASE Executive Director, and Abby Vining, Vision 2020 Network Manager share the details and give listeners a call to action in order to get this initiative on the November 2020 ballot. Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning Music: Sine de Cobre by Cholate

20 Best Practices for Virtual Meetings and Webinars

With virtual meetings as the new way of life, make sure to check out the 20 best practices to help you pull off a professional meeting or webinar. These easy to do practices create a win-win scenario for any virtual meeting.   Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning Music: I'm a Punk You're a Punk

Budgeting During a State Fiscal Crisis

The COVID-19 shutdown has created a state fiscal crisis and school boards must navigate uncharted territory as they prepare their district budgets. Join Tracie Rainey, Diane Doney, and Matt Cook as they discuss possibilities, CARE stimulus funds, timelines, and much more. This podcast is taken from the CASB Conversations webinar on April 22,2020. Music: El Tajo by Cholate  

Budgeting During a State Fiscal Crisis

The COVID-19 shutdown has created a state fiscal crisis and school boards must navigate uncharted territory as they prepare their district budgets. Join Tracie Rainey, Diane Doney, and Matt Cook as they discuss possibilities, CARE stimulus funds, timelines, and much more. This podcast is taken from the CASB Conversations webinar on April 22,2020. Music: El Tajo by Cholate  

Legal Topics 101 - Colorado Open Meetings Law and More Part II

Public comment during a school board meeting is important and there are ways to accommodate your community voice. Learn best practices for public comment, conflict of interest, the Colorado Open Records Act, social media and email do’s and don’ts, and much more. Interview with Jennifer Mueller, Former CASB Chief General Counsel Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning Music: Sine de Cobre by Cholate

2020 End of Year High School Ceremonies

Gain some great ideas for 2020 end of year ceremonies that will honor your graduates, retiring staff, artists, and more. Although COVID-19 changed the way we handle traditions, it doesn't have to eradicate them and you'll hear how to keep them alive and well. Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning Music: Sino de Cobre by Cholate

Considerations for 2020 Colorado High School Graduates as a Result of COVID-19

The Colorado Association of School Boards and the Colorado Department of Education discuss the options school districts have in order to meet their district graduation requirements for 2020 graduates. This podcast is from a recording of the CASB Conversations webinar on April 1, 2020. Topics include flexibility, equitable access, and policy implications.  Music: El Tajo by Cholate

Colorado HB20-1301 Electronic Participation Facts

HB20-1301 allows Colorado school boards to meet electronically. What does this look like? CASB's staff attorney, Sam Jones-Rogers and CASB Executive Director, Cheri Wrench, share facts associated with the bill and insights into how boards can meet electronically. This podcast was created from the CASB Conversations HB20-1301 webinar recorded on March 25, 2020. Music: Sino de Cobre by Cholate

The School Board Budget Process

Learn what it takes to work on the school board budget, where it comes from and how to navigate incorporating the vision for placing students first in the process. School board budget experts, Glenn Gustafson and Barb Clementi share insights and tips into making the budget work for your district. Host: Leslie Bogar, CASB Director of Professional Learning Music: El Tajo by Cholate