“There are other people in my district who are members of MSBO. What would I get out of being a member?”
If you have been a member of MSBO for any period of time, you have probably had someone ask you this question. As a member of the MSBO Board for the past several years, it is a question I have heard a number of times.
My first reaction is to say that what you get out of MSBO depends on what you put in. Every association is as strong as its members. If its members contribute, everyone benefits. At MSBO, our members give, and everyone gets, an amazing amount of resources. Here are some examples:
- The Michigan Institute for Educational Management (MIEM) was founded in 1981 by MASA and MSBO to provide professional development activities for all school employees through conferences, workshops, training videos and certification programs. MSBO, along with MASA and other organizations, contributes to the advancement of all members through cutting-edge educational programs.
- MSBO’s Program and Research Committees meet throughout the year to focus on topical issues such as facility planning and maintenance, food service, transportation, purchasing, school finance, intermediate school districts, technology and professional development. These committees are open for all members to attend and participate. They provide leadership, guidance and networking for members.
- MSBO Regional Groups meet throughout the state, based on their geographical location. These groups are very important in assisting locals with state and regional issues and act as a conduit to MSBO. These groups also provide opportunities for regional collaboration without requiring “another trip to Lansing” to participate.
- MSBO conferences provide valuable and timely information, professional development, and networking opportunities.
- MSBO offers legislative updates and products such as PaySchools, Public Surplus, Purchasing Cards, Bus Purchasing and many more direct services.
- The MSBO staff is likely the best in the business! Tom White is an outstanding leader who is recognized for his contributions well beyond our membership as a statewide resource in K-12 education. Dave Martell, Associate Executive Director, has valuable experience in school business and finance issues. Associate Executive Director Scott Little brings expertise to support services from careers in the military and education. These folks, along with all of the MSBO staff, truly have a passion for MSBO and its members and to provide the best service they can.
In short, you get as much as you give. And in our case, I believe our members give generously and receive in return through networking, shared expertise, services, and leadership.
So, whether you’re from Jonesville, in the southern part of the state, or Copper Harbor in the UP, MSBO is a resource that will make you – and your district – more professional and better prepared in your professional life.