Arizona School Boards Association

???? School Connect AZ is looking for education leaders who break down barriers and drive change! Nominate a school board member who’s leading with heart and making an impact in their community for the Champions of Education Awards. Nominations close March 21, 2025! Check out the link to learn more and to submit your nomination: https://ow.ly/AZu950Vg5W0

???? Your story is your superpower! Join us in Flagstaff for ASBA’s Summer Leadership Institute to learn how storytelling can elevate your leadership and build a shared vision for the future. Registration opens April 15! ???? Learn more about the opportunity to connect with other leaders here: https://ow.ly/nN3N50Vg5MP

?? Honoring Excellence in Education: 2025 Arizona Teacher of the Year ?? The Arizona School Boards Association proudly celebrates Emmett Burnton, an AP World & U.S. History teacher at Boulder Creek High School, as the 2025 Arizona Teacher of the Year. Burnton’s approach to teaching goes beyond memorizing facts—he fosters critical thinking, historical inquiry, and civic engagement, preparing students to navigate the complexities of the modern world. In a special Q&A, Burnton shares his perspective on: ?? The role of school boards in supporting educators ?? Engaging students through real-world connections ?? The importance of building strong partnerships between teachers & district leadership His insights are a must-read for all education leaders! Congratulations, Emmett Burnton! ?? Wanna read more about Emmett and his process? Check out the full article in this week's Connect E-News https://ow.ly/yEXU50Vg7zu or in our 2025 Journal https://ow.ly/WfXv50Vg7zt.

???? Attention Arizona school districts! The updated USFR, created with the Arizona Department of Education, is here. The Arizona Auditor revised sections to clarify guidance and update terminology based on your questions. Check out this link to read the full statement and learn more about the update in our Connect E-newsletter ?? https://ow.ly/cnkJ50VgM0B

???? Want to better understand your school district's financial health? Join ASBA’s School Finance Boot Camp! This in-depth series will empower board members with the tools to assess financial risk and make informed decisions for the success of your district. ?? Discover more about our Finance Boot Camp and other information here: https://ow.ly/4WCS50Vg5tN

?? Mitra Khazai, ASBA President-Elect, explains the power of "Advocate" ?? “As a school board member and a member of the Arizona School Board Association, the word ‘advocate’ deeply resonates with me because it reflects our unwavering commitment to championing the needs of our students and ensuring they have access to a quality education. Advocacy drives our efforts to address challenges, support teachers, support staff and administrators, and create opportunities for every student to succeed and thrive in an ever-changing world.” This initiative deepens the connection between members and ASBA’s core values—Educate, Advocate, Elevate—highlighting how these principles shape the work of school board leaders across Arizona.

?? Exciting News from ASBA! ?? ASBA is launching a new Communications Services program this summer to help school boards and districts strengthen community engagement, crisis response, and brand strategy. What can districts expect? ? Strategic communication planning ? Social media & outreach support ? Crisis communication guidance ? Branding & messaging tools ?? Launching Summer 2025! Stay tuned for more details on how ASBA can support your district’s communication needs.

?? Only 3 weeks left to apply! ?? ASBA’s Student Scholarship Program is helping high school seniors in ASBA member districts take the next step in their education. Three scholarships are available to support future educators, student leaders, and those committed to service: ?? Black Alliance Georgie & Calvin Goode Scholarship – For Black/African American students demonstrating academic growth and community impact. ?? Jack Peterson Scholarship – For future educators dedicated to shaping the next generation. ?? Panfilo H. Contreras Honorary Scholarship – For Hispanic and Native American students pursuing higher education. ?? Deadline: March 31, 2025 Encourage a student to apply today! ?? Learn more here: https://ow.ly/EPFI50VcYNe

?? The 2025 ASBA Journal is here! ?? This year’s edition is packed with insightful articles, district highlights, and stories showcasing the impact of Arizona’s school boards. Stay informed, get inspired, and celebrate the dedication of education leaders across the state. ?? Keep an eye on your mailbox—or get a sneak peek at the digital edition today! ?? https://ow.ly/aq0s50VcWpr

?? How One Arizona District is Leading the AI Revolution in Education ?? As AI transforms industries, Florence Unified School District (FUSD) is ensuring its students and educators stay ahead. Through an Open AI policy, hands-on training, and ethical AI integration, FUSD is building a culture of responsible innovation. From personalized learning tools like Khan Academy to professional development for teachers, the district is balancing innovation with accountability—preparing students for a workforce shaped by AI. ?? “It’s our responsibility as school board members to make sure our schools are adapting, not avoiding, new technology.” – Roger Biede, Florence School Board Member ?? To read more check out our connect newsletters here: https://ow.ly/6bGC50VcUUM