The yearly Manitoba School Boards Association (MSBA) Convention brings together all school boards in the province, holding an annual convention every March to focus on professional development, collaboration, and advocacy for public education.
Garden Valley School Division Board Chair Leah Klassen, re-elected as Vice President for schools with fewer than 6,000 students, outlined some of the things that happened at the meeting this year.
Debate and development
Klassen shared that the convention included keynote speakers and breakout sessions for professional development, with Friday dedicated to elections and resolution debates. "In Manitoba, the school boards are separated into six regions. And those regions have meetings in the fall that bring forward resolutions for the association to consider, so that MSBA knows what they're advocating and working for in the year ahead."
Klassen described her role as a mentor and collaborator, saying that she works closely with regional directors and ministers in a role that involves connecting with boards across Manitoba to understand their unique challenges.
Keynote address by Cassie Campbell-Pascal
Olympic gold medalist Cassie Campbell-Pascal delivered an inspiring keynote, drawing parallels between the sports and governance.
“She told some stories about her time in the Olympics, and you know, her time as captain and just those types of things. She really inspired us for the week.” Klassen shared, saying Campbell-Pascal's message about teamwork and persevering resonated with trustees.
Despite the packed schedule, Klassen was pleased with the outcome, ensuring it was both impactful and respectful of trustees' time.
"We want to be super respectful because a lot of trustees hold full-time jobs," she explained. With nearly 250 delegates in attendance, the event also included a closed-door session with the Minister of Education.
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Leadership transition
Klassen highlighted that the association saw the outgoing of president Sandy Nemeth, and the return of Alan Campbell, following his previous term and role as past president. "He actually was our president for four years and then served the last two as past president, and now he's back in as president".
Visit the Manitoba School Board Association website for more information on the Convention.
- with files from the Manitoba School Boards Association -