TASB Announces Launch of Texas Trustee Institute

Austin— The Texas Association of School Boards is launching an immersive learning experience designed to help newly elected school board members be successful in their roles as trustees.  

Known as the Texas Trustee Institute, this special program will provide a specialized training opportunity for new board members seeking a strong foundational understanding of board governance and its role in improving student outcomes.  

“We understand that once a board member is elected, there is a lot about board governance that they need to learn very quickly,” said Dan Troxell, TASB executive director. “For a new trustee, getting started can feel daunting, but the goal of the Texas Trustee Institute is to provide the support they need to get up to speed, feel confident in their role, and build much needed support networks with other school board members.” 

The institute will be offered at locations around the state, and at most TASB events, including Summer Learning Institute, which is held in San Antonio and Fort Worth. In addition to governance and student outcomes, some of the topics that will be covered during the institute include: 

• The Role of a Texas School Board Trustee 
• Board Operating Procedures 
• School Law 101  
• Digital Life as a Board Member
• Open Meetings Act
• District Policy Basics
• Working as a Body Corporate

Participants in the institute will benefit from an in-person learning journey designed specifically for newly elected board trustees. Sessions will be led by TASB’s Robert Long III, division director, Board Development Services, in addition to former and current trustees and education leaders.    

Along with gaining the much-needed foundational knowledge that allows board members to be effective trustees, the institute will offer them the opportunity to strengthen and expand their relationships with other board members. 

“Through the use of cohorts, we can connect board members who come from communities with similar needs, challenges, and goals,” Long said. “The institute is not only an opportunity for new board members to get much needed information, but also to network with other board members who may become future collaborators and thought partners.” 

Those who take part in the Texas Trustee Institute will have an opportunity to earn continuing education credits, receive a certificate of completion, and return to their districts with practical tools and strategies for success in their roles.   

For more information or to register for TASB’s Texas Trustee Institute contact Board Development Services at board.dev@tasb.org.