HEB ISD School & Family Magazine Summer 2017 | Page 14

Board Ambassador Academy
In 2011, the HEB ISD School Board established the first Board Ambassador Academy. This program provides
the HEB community a unique opportunity to learn about Board service and the inner workings of the school
district. Now finishing its sixth year, the Academy “graduates” individuals who become front line advocates of
this school district.
The program’s monthly meetings cover a variety of topics: board service, the Continuous Improvement
philosophy, educational operations, business operations, a tour of the district, and more. Board members
and central office staff lead each session in a casual, conversational style. Participants have a chance to
ask questions about the topic of the night and receive materials supporting the conversation. The in-depth
conversations generated have been a highlight of the meetings. Former participants say that they have gained
a better perspective of how our school district operates.
The program’s on-going success has received
recognition outside of our district. In 2016, the
National School Board Association honored
HEB ISD’s Board Ambassador Academy with
their Magna Award. This award for innovative
programming is among the highest honors that
NSBA confers; our Academy was selected as
the winner from a pool of more than 70 nation-
wide nominees.
An interesting outgrowth from this program
has been the Board Leadership Academy,
offered in school board election years for those
considering running for the school board. This
intensive, 3-meeting Academy gives potential
candidates an honest look at the type of work
and commitment needed to serve on the
school board. Candidates have conversations
with current board members, explore case
studies, visit surrounding districts, analyze the
12