Small District Regional Workshop 2026: Ft. Elliott, Region 16

Join Ft. Elliott CISD for a special TASB Regional Workshop designed with the unique needs of small and rural school districts in mind. This workshop will provide an opportunity for school board members to learn, share ideas, and connect with colleagues who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of leading a small district.

Come ready for meaningful conversations, practical professional development, and the chance to build connections with other board members and school leaders from across the region. Trustees can earn up to two credit hours during this event. 

Dinner will be provided, giving attendees additional time to network and continue the conversation in a relaxed setting.

Doors open at 5 p.m., so please feel free to arrive early to visit with colleagues and get settled. 

There is no fee to attend! Please RSVP by Monday, September 28, 2026, so we can plan appropriately for the event and ensure we have enough dinner for everyone.

Agenda

6-7 p.m.
Strengthening the Triangle: Board, Superintendent, and Community

Effective school governance depends on a strong and transparent relationship between the board, superintendent, and the community they serve. In rural and small districts, these relationships are more visible and complex due to close community ties and high expectations for accountability. Fort Elliott CISD explores practical strategies superintendents can use to strengthen board governance, improve communication, and build community trust. Examine real world scenarios involving policy interpretation, board dynamics, and community engagement. Leave with tools to navigate VATREs and bond elections while maintaining alignment with the board and being conscious of the community.

7-7:30 p.m.
Dinner

7:30-8:30 p.m.
Quiz Show: Policy Basics

How much do you know about policy basics? How confident are you about implementing recent legislative changes? Now is your chance to test yourself with the help of a TASB Policy Service consultant. This session will be a fun, engaging, and interactive examination of policy basics like governance vs. management, reasons for local policies, policy vs. regulation, and the board’s role in the policy development cycle.