Wisconsin Association of School Board’s Support of The Kettle Moraine School District

The Kettle Moraine School District has enjoyed the support of the Wisconsin Association of School Boards, (WASB) for many years.  In return, KMSD has provided support to WASB programs and other State school districts.

KMSD has been a participating and respected Member of WASB for many years.  KMSD has received invaluable advice and guidance from WASB regarding implementation of new State requirements and the impact of pending State legislation.  WASB has provided practical advice and legal advice about financial requirements, education requirements, and governance issues.  More notable issues included implementation of Act 10 requirements (2011), and the recent reading requirements. 

KMSD has taken advantage of various training programs offered by WASB including new Board Member training, not offered by the current Board.  KMSD Board Members have attended WASB’s annual legislative advocacy workshops and the weekly online WASB legislature briefings.  Of great importance and impact, KMSD Board Members have attended  WASB’s annual State Legislature Visit Day in Madison facilitating face-to-face personal meetings between Board Members and our  Legislators.  These in person meetings have the greatest impact for expressing our District’s challenges, concerns, and successes.

The opportunity to network with other districts’ Boards and Superintendents thru WASB events has also been an impactful advantage to KMSD.  We gain a better understanding of addressing challenges when we learn from other districts, even when another district may take the opposite position on an issue.

WASB has called on KMSD to help other districts across the State.  KMSD has given numerous presentations on our programs and strategies in numerous workshops at the annual State Education Convention in January of each year.  Past Board President Gary Vose was an active advisor to other districts in the implementation of Policy Governance practices.  Other districts have come to rely on KMSD’s participation.  KMSD has come to rely on other districts’ experiences and practices.

KMSD’s membership in WASB has paid many dividends to our District.  We are fortunate to have this WASB resource available, and as easily accessible as a phone call to their office.  No other State association provides these services and benefits.