Description
Student Board Member Workshops │ Bundle Subscription │ Virtual
Student board members are integral to ensuring student voice is heard and included in decisions made by local governance teams that, ultimately, impact tomorrow’s leaders. But how can the youngest members of California’s district and county leaders come to the dais prepared to ask informed questions and make crucial decisions on behalf of their fellow students, families and communities?
CSBA is offering a virtual Student Board Member Training bundle program for students seeking to enhance their knowledge, skills and abilities as school board members. This program is designed to engage students and elevate their understanding of governance while serving as a school board member.
Topics include the nuances of governance, legal issues surrounding the Brown Act and meetings, California school board membership, finance, advocacy and engagement, and transition planning. Students will have opportunities to utilize new tools and templates designed to craft motions, present viewpoints and solicit community input.
Additionally, there are several virtual Student Board Member Governance Q&A and Networking events that will allow students to call in, ask questions regarding governance, advocacy and student voice, share their experiences with peers and speak with CSBA training faculty members.
Three days before the course, participants will receive the Know Before You Go e-blast Zoom link and materials to download for each course.
Schedule:
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Monday, September 8, 2025
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Governance 101 for Student Board Members
What does it really mean to be a student school board member? In this workshop, you will learn about your responsibilities, rights, and the unique role you play on the board. We will explore how your voice represents students, how meetings work, and how you can be an active part of important decisions. This session will help you understand how to stay informed, speak up, and make your time on the board count.
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5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
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Monday, October 6, 2025
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All About the Brown Act
As a student board member, you are part of a public governing body, which means you must follow the Brown Act. This California law makes sure that school board meetings are open, honest, and transparent. In this workshop, you'll learn what the Brown Act is, why it matters, and how it affects what you can say and do before, during, and after meetings. We will break it down in simple terms, so you feel confident following the rules while ensuring the student voice is heard.
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5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
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Monday, November 3, 2025
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Networking Session
This is an opportunity for student board members to engage in a networking session designed to foster collaboration and connection. This is your opportunity to share ideas, exchange experiences, and gain valuable insights from peers who understand the challenges of your role. Together, you will explore solutions and build support, all while strengthening your network.
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5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
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Monday, January 12, 2026
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Advocating and Outreach for Change
Your job as a student board member is more than just attending meetings, it’s also about speaking up for all students in your district and making sure their voices are heard. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to be an advocate for your classmates and how to connect with students at your school and across the district. We will talk about how to gather student input, share information, and build strong relationships with students, staff, and community members. You will leave with tools to help you lead with purpose and make a lasting impact.
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5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
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Monday, February 23, 2026
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Student Board Members Guide to District Budgets and LCFF
Where does your school’s money come from, and how is it spent? In this workshop, you will learn the basics of how school district budgets work and what the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) is all about. We will break down key terms, explain how funding decisions are made, and show you how these choices affect students. You will also learn how to ask good questions and give input on financial matters that impact your school. No math skills needed, just curiosity and a willingness to learn!
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5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
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Monday, March 16, 2026
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How the LCAP Impacts Student Needs (and wants)
The Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) is a big part of how schools plan for student success. But what is it, and why should you care? In this workshop, you will learn what the LCAP is, how it connects to school goals and budgets, and why student input matters. We will help you understand the key parts of the plan and how to provide feedback. By the end of this session, you will feel more prepared to take part in LCAP conversations and speak up for student needs.
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5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
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Monday, April 13, 2026
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Legacy and Transition Planning for Continued Success
Your time as a student board member is important, and so is what you leave behind. In this workshop, you will learn how to reflect on your experience, organize what you’ve learned, and prepare to pass the torch to the next student board member. We will discuss how to share tips, tools, and unfinished goals so the work you started can continue. This session will help you leave a legacy and make the transition smooth and meaningful for the next student leader.
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5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
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Monday, May 4, 2026
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Networking Session for New and Transitioning Student Board Members
As one chapter ends and another begins, this session provides an opportunity for outgoing and incoming student board members to connect. Outgoing members will reflect on their experiences while sharing key successes, lessons learned, and practical advice. Incoming members will gain valuable insight and encouragement as they prepare for their new role. Together, we will celebrate those transitioning out and welcome those coming in.
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5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
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Bundled Subscription Registration: $360.00
CANCELLATION OF REGISTRATION:
The following cancellation policies only apply to MIG, MIG COE, and Student Board Member Workshop virtual or in-person Discounted Subscription Courses.
Some restrictions may apply.
- No refunds are available for this discount.
- No refunds should a member choose to cancel a session or series.
- There are no refunds for no-shows.
- The discount is non-transferable between board members and must be used within the 2025-2026 training cycle.
CSBA reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any event if the required attendance minimums are unmet. Attendance minimums for in-person training are set to be fiscally responsible in the use of public funds for training. The attendance minimum for in-person training events is a registration minimum of 25 participants. For virtual training events, the registration minimum is 20 participants.
If you have any questions, please contact the Training team at training@csba.org.