January is a month of reflection and resolution, often considered a reset as we enter a new year. It also happens to be a month of recognition. In fact, January is School Board Recognition Month, and I'd like to take a few moments to unpack that with you.  

To write about recognition, I had to look up the definition. The "nerd alert" was implied there, I know. Of course, while I thought I knew what the word meant, I wanted to explore it in more depth. There is also the latent fear Inigo Montoya of Princess Bride instilled in me decades ago, that I will keep using a word, and people won’t think it means what I think it means.   

First, Dictionary.com tells me "Recognition” can be the acknowledgment of achievement, service, merit, etc., or the expression of this in the form of a token of appreciation. I’ve worked with local school board members for the better two decades. I've watched them selflessly give their time, talents, and emotional bandwidth for the betterment of the students and school systems they serve. They do so without fanfare or compensation. And, while I get to sit in my tall tower and give advice or make quick visits and then speed back to my neutral zone, these individuals stay and do the messy work. They make tough decisions and take the blame for unpopular initiatives, sometimes marinating in the abuse of observers that do not recognize the value of the work being done. If this has been your experience, know that we recognize your value and appreciate your service and passion for improving public education in Kansas. 

Second, "recognition” can be the acknowledgment of something as entitled to consideration. As you may know, January also signals the start of the 2023 legislative session. The Kansas Legislature will discuss issues and enact legislation in this session that will significantly affect schools across Kansas. The KASB advocacy team will be working hard to be the voice of public education at the state capitol, but they could use your help. I encourage you all to recognize the wealth of knowledge you could share with your local legislators about matters of significance to your district. You have a story; no one can tell it like you can. 

As school board members, you are immersed in the real problems that schools face daily. Your role provides you with a front-row seat to how schools run and how to improve the experience for students, staff, and the community you serve. Legislators often do not have this same depth of knowledge about the educational process. That is why the perspective of local board members is so valuable. Legislators need to hear about the challenges you are facing as well as the successes you have experienced. You can use your voice and position to tell your district's story. Hopefully, when you do, your legislators will gladly take your input, give it due consideration, and be better equipped to make good decisions. Thus, I urge you to reach out to your local legislator to build a rapport, find common ground, and set up an ongoing relationship. You can build on this relationship and invite them to tour your schools and hear about your initiatives. Show them first-hand what works and what doesn't, as only you can.  

Finally, I want to thank you all for what you do. As a parent of school-aged children and the spouse of a school district employee, it gives me great relief to know that we have such capable, caring people in district leadership. And, as an attorney, I am very thankful that at the end of each day in district representation, I work for good people who keep the district's best interests and student success at heart in everything they do. As you go out and make the hard decisions, know KASB is here to provide information and resources, including, but not limited to, on how to better advocate for your district.  

For more information, visit our website at KASB for our advocacy services or give an advocacy staff member a call to discuss. Until we meet again, feel free to give yourself an enthusiastic pat on the back, fist bump, or high five for a job very well done. Give us a call if you need me to help you define words you already know or need other support.