April is a special month at ASBJ. We start work on the April issue in January, so to me it feels like the promise of spring in the depth of winter.

April is also special because we announce and feature the Magna Awards winners. This year, we were able to travel to our Grand Prize-winning districts for our videos, which will be debuted at NSBA’s annual conference in April and online after.

It was a great joy and privilege to meet the school board members, administrators, and teachers who work so hard to bring equity, opportunity, and connections to their students, parents, and the community. The three Grand Prize winners and the 15 Silver Award winners tell stories of overcoming challenges that I hope will give you information and ideas.

The work of the Magna Awards starts in August when the nomination period opens. District staff members spend much time and effort to complete their nominations. In December, their efforts and dedication make the jobs of our independent judges very difficult. We inform the winners and their state association executive directors in January and make the public announcements in March.

We culminate our efforts in our April issue with these stories. At NSBA’s Annual Conference in April, the three Grand Prize-winning districts will speak at a special Master Class session, and the winners will be honored.

We’d love to feature your districts here next year. Consider entering your exemplary district programs when the nomination period for the 2023 awards opens in August.

Also in this issue, a story about Career and Technical Education in a rural Virginia district includes a video available online. Representatives from that district will appear at the Annual Conference, as well.

I’m happy to highlight “Five Lessons for Successful School Board Service.” Written by Connecticut Association of Boards of Education Executive Director Robert Rader, it’s full of wise and valuable advice for both new and longtime board members.

As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions.

Until next issue. . .

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Around NSBA

A group of high school students paint on canvases during an art class.

2023 Magna Awards Grand Prize Winners

School districts rethink and reinvent education for their students, staff, and communities.