IASB Convention 2024

We’ve all been told, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” However, navigating difficult conversations without damaging relationships can be incredibly challenging. When it comes to conflicts, challenges, and difficult conversations, you can run, but you can’t hide. In her lively keynote, communication expert Sarita Maybin will offer practical strategies and positive techniques to navigate tough conversations at the board table with tact and respect. By the end of the session, you'll feel empowered to approach difficult conversations with grace, focused on maintaining professionalism and fostering better understanding in ALL communications.

Sarita blends real stories and practical solutions to equip individuals with the tools they need to convey challenging news while preserving positive AND constructive relationships. Attendees will gain the confidence and skills necessary to evaluate whether a situation requires confrontation or can be overlooked. Through Sarita’s guidance, participants will be introduced to a three-step process for expressing concerns in a respectful and effective manner. Additionally, Sarita will share valuable methods to cushion the impact of negative feedback or bad news, helping your team facilitate conversations while remaining as positive as possible. Kick off the 79th IASB Annual Convention by learning to transform uncomfortable conversations into constructive communication! You’ll leave with new tools to assess when it’s time to confront challenges head-on to help your board team build and maintain positive, constructive at the board table, and with your community.

Special thanks to DLR Group for sponsoring the Opening General Session at the 79th IASB Annual Convention & Trade Show.
 

Statistics show that Iowa’s students living in poverty are the least likely to gain an education—what if your actions as a leader could change that? Students experiencing poverty face significant barriers to education, making it imperative for school board members and education leaders to be well-informed on how our decisions impact students in poverty. In her compelling keynote, Donna Beegle will dive into the impact of poverty on students’ education and why poverty-informed Iowa school board members are more important than ever to break barriers for the one in five students struggling with basic needs. How can we better support our school communities in building environments where students experiencing poverty can succeed?

Donna’s personal experiences with generational poverty led her to drop out of school at 15. At 26, she obtained her GED. Within 10 years, Donna went on to earn her doctorate in Educational Leadership. This insider perspective and 34 years of experience working with school leaders to improve educational outcomes for students in poverty, paired with her powerful personal story, will give you an in-depth exploration of how poverty impacts student achievement, and how informed leaders can make all the difference for students experiencing poverty. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to lunch and learn during the second general session—you’ll leave inspired and empowered to be a voice for Iowa's students living in poverty!

Special thanks to Jester Insurance Services for sponsoring the Second General Session & Luncheon at the 79th IASB Annual Convention & Trade Show.
 

A leader who understands how to motivate and build consensus is worth their weight in gold. Today’s era of constant change requires leaders who understand the importance of drawing from everyone's strengths and insight to create positive change. School culture provides the foundation for positive change in your district. As leaders, how can we develop a culture that supports change? In his insightful keynote, Anthony Muhammad will introduce us to the importance of transformational leadership, and the key competencies that all board teams can practice as you lead transformation in your own district.

Anthony will dive into four leadership competencies for your board team: communication, trust building, professional support, and accountability. As you break down these four traits, you’ll build an understanding of the value of school culture and the importance of developing a consensus on and beyond your team. Acquire practical skills that inspire others to embrace change at our fantastic final general session of the day!