MI SoundBoard

In today's often polarized climate, even school governance isn't immune to political tension. That's why fostering civility among school board members is more important than ever. Join David Dulio, Ph. D.—political science professor and Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Oakland University—for a thoughtful conversation with MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE. Together, they explo...

On this episode of MI Soundboard , we dive into the most critical relationship influencing the success of any school district—the one between the board and the superintendent. Tina Kerr, Ph. D. , Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA), joins MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba for a candid conversation on why this partnership must be built on tr...

Investing in professional development is key to fostering meaningful change in education. In this episode, we're joined by School Design Strategist Tovah Sheldon, Ph. D., from Michigan Virtual, to explore their transformative coaching program. Discover how this initiative helps district leaders ignite innovation, drive progress, and create lasting impact in their schools.

Effective onboarding for newly elected board members can mean the difference between smooth, strategic governance and dysfunction. In this episode, we sit down with Kelli Horst and Amanda Love to discuss how they transformed a contentious election into a collaborative, high-functioning board in Clarkston Community Schools. Tune in to hear their journey from division to unity.

Kent ISD's Director of Safety and Security, Sean Burns , returns to the podcast to share insights on the district's proactive approach to school safety. Discover how reunification drills prepare schools for emergencies and why a shared language between first responders and the district is crucial for effective communication and response.

This episode of MI SoundBoard celebrates one of the annual achievements in Michigan public education. Tune in to hear from the inspiring 2025-26 Michigan High School Principal of the Year, Adam Lancto , as he shares his journey and the lasting impact he's made on the students of Grandville High School.

After every election year, MASB's Government Relations team collaborates with members to shape a focused set of priorities for the upcoming two-year legislative session. In this episode, join Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith as we explore how MASB members contribute to this critical decision-making process and delve into the key priorities that will guide our advocacy efforts over t...

Kick off the new year with insight and inspiration! In our regular State of the Superintendency episode, we explore the latest trends shaping Michigan's school superintendent landscape. Join us as we sit down with Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed. , Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search Services, and Jay Bennett, M.Ed. , Assistant Director of Executive Search Services. Together, we'll di...

Our annual conversation with the Superintendent of the Year is back, and it's one you won't want to miss! Join us as Bangor Township Schools Superintendent Matthew Schmidt shares the creative ways he's helping students reach their potential and creating a productive school culture.

The elections are over, and you have a few new faces at the board table. What now? Our guest on this episode of MISoundBoard is none other than MASB's own Brad Banasik to answer common questions you may have.

In this episode, we talk with Steve Colón, CEO of Bottom Line, a national organization that helps students from under-resourced communities succeed in college. Steve explains Bottom Line's mission and shares how they support students in reaching their goals.

Since 2005, the SET SEG Foundation has been making a positive impact on Michigan students through a variety of charitable initiatives and grants. As a proud partner of the Foundation, we're excited to welcome their Executive Director, Molly Mellema , to this episode of MI SoundBoard. Molly shares about the foundation's current programs and talks to Don about securing funding and resources to suppo...

In addition to the shortage of teachers, districts are also experiencing a lack of applicants for business official positions. Bob Dwan, Executive Director of the Michigan School Business Officials, joins Don to discuss how current district employees can take proactive steps in succession planning.

AI has become a central topic in conversations about not just public education but all aspects of our lives, and it's a discussion that's here to stay. On today's episode, we're joined by Aaron Baughman, Northville Public Schools' Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, who has been integrating new AI tools into the district's classrooms. Tune in to explore the exciting possibilities—a...

With school board elections just around the corner, what should you be paying attention to? MASB's Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. returns for this episode of MI SoundBoard to answer some of the most pressing questions he's been fielding and offer crucial insights to navigate this important period.

In this episode of MI SoundBoard, we sit down with Jon Wilcox , Principal of Petoskey Middle School and the 2024 Michigan Principal of the Year. Discover the journey and impactful experiences that led to his recognition. Tune in to hear firsthand why Jon is celebrated as a leader in education.

In this episode, Don sits down with James Johnson , the newly appointed president of the MASB Board of Directors and a key figure from Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools. A dedicated advocate for public education and lifelong learning, James shares his insights and experiences from his long-standing commitment to education in his community.

The 2024/2025 School Aid Budget has been signed into effect, and it's creating a lot of questions. Join Director of Government Relations, Jennifer Smith , as she dissects the details and explores the background leading to this point.

In this episode, meet Kelley Cusmano , the 2024-25 Michigan Teacher of the Year and Student Leadership Teacher at Rochester High School. Discover the passions that drive her classroom and learn why her community nominated her for this prestigious award.

The Michigan legislature has spoken and there are new laws surrounding how you evaluate your superintendents. Hear from MASB's own Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. along with Assistant Director of Executive Search Services Jay Bennett, M.Ed. about what you can expect from these changes.

School safety is a crucial topic that requires our constant attention to enable proactive measures against violence. In this episode, we welcome back Kim Root , Manager of the Office of School Safety, to discuss the current state of school safety and the valuable resources her department provides to school districts.

As it's an election year, will all of your seats be filled? Join Executive Director Don Wotruba and Assistant Director of Leadership Development Debbie Stair as they discuss the current state of boards of education in Michigan and why it's crucial to bring civic-minded individuals to the table.

Join our Executive Director, Don Wotruba as he talks to Venessa Keesler , self-proclaimed data nerd and President and CEO of Launch Michigan, about the ways data, policy and advocacy can help Michigan students succeed. 

Learn more about the goals of the new MiLEAP Department with Acting Director Michelle Richard .

In this episode, Rick Dernberger , who serves on the MASB Board of Directors, Ottawa ISD board, and Zeeland Public Schools board, takes on the role of interviewer, putting MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, in the guest seat. They discuss the various services and benefits offered by MASB, the importance of ongoing education for board members, the history of the organization and more.