A little over a year ago, Dr. Pettigrew joined our executive leadership team as Washington Township’s first Chief Academic and DEI Officer. In recognizing the significance of this newly reframed position, Dr. Woodson was determined to provide Dr. Pettigrew with the tools and resources necessary to drive equitable achievement in our schools.

One such tool was the opportunity to participate in an innovation leadership cohort program through Six Sigma Indy. This program, designed specifically to foster innovation in bridging historical opportunity gaps, would also equip Dr. Pettigrew with expertise in continuous improvement through Six Sigma Green Belt training and certification.

What Dr. Woodson may not have fully anticipated was the extraordinary commitment and the extensive work required to earn this certification. It is well known that the intensity of the Six Sigma training and certification process is comparable to that of a master’s or doctoral-level program. Despite this, Dr. Pettigrew took on the challenge with unwavering determination. Balancing her new executive leadership role with the demands of this program, she not only met the expectations but far exceeded them. She understood the profound impact that this certification would have on her ability to lead and drive change here at Washington Township.

Today, we are proud to celebrate Dr. Pettigrew’s remarkable achievement in earning her Six Sigma Green Belt certification from Indiana University Columbus. This globally recognized credential is awarded to leaders who demonstrate exceptional skills in process optimization and project management. Dr. Pettigrew was selected for a highly competitive Six Sigma program, which involved nine months of rigorous training and hands-on project application.

This certification significantly enhances her ability to make data-driven decisions and implement systematic improvements across our schools, advancing both our educational outcomes and operational efficiency. By completing this challenging program, Dr. Pettigrew has further strengthened her leadership skills and her commitment to fostering continuous improvement within our district.

On January 30th, Dr. Pettigrew graduated alongside 11 other accomplished women from Indianapolis, marking the culmination of her dedication to advancing her analytical and problem-solving skills. Her success is a testament to her commitment to excellence in educational leadership and her ongoing growth as an influential leader within Washington Township.

Quote from Ms. Joy Mason – President of SixSigmaIndy – “Dr. Pettigrew is now a Six Sigma Green Belt! The SixSigmaIndy team is incredibly proud of Dr. Pettigrew’s new certification. Six Sigma is a globally recognized executive-level skill that will enhance Dr. Pettigrew’s ability to maximize her impact on education, and we were honored to support her career journey.”

Dr. Woodson and the entire leadership team are incredibly proud of Dr. Pettigrew’s achievement. We celebrate her dedication, hard work, and the positive impact she will continue to have on our schools.

Join us for our 2025 Teacher Recruitment Fair March 3 and 5! Washington Township is a dynamic community with broad diversity in cultures, religions, ethnic groups, races, and socioeconomic levels. We are a district that is passionate about developing lifelong learners and globally-minded citizens and creating equitable, affirming and responsive learning environments for all students to thrive. Learn more about joining our team by joining us at this exciting event!

 

At the January 8, 2025 Regular Meeting of the Board of Education the following individuals were recognized for helping to make Washington Township a Superior School District.

Congratulations to the following Northview Middle School Students who participated in the Luke’s Leaders 8th grade program, Youth and Government which is delivered by the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis each fall.  Vaniya Clark, Preston Peterson, Brea Gipson-Ford, Gloria Bahati and Joshua Thompson who is not a NV student but we wanted to recognize as part of the team.  This year Luke’s Leaders had 12 students who participated.  Over 10 weeks, the students learned about local government and how legislation gets proposed, created, and passed into law.   These students identified issues that they care deeply about and then wrote legislation.  All of this under the expert leadership of Anders Kleiman of the YMCA. We would also like to thank and recognize some other key supporters and volunteers Laney Marshall, Gary Chambers, Nelsen Lenze and Thomas Lange who played key roles in making this all happen.  We are looking forward to the Leadership Summit on January 18 where they will bring all five of their active Luke’s Leaders groups together. Again, congratulations to all!

Congratulations to Ms. Jocelyn Sisson, NC faculty, who was recognized by the Awards Committee at the Indiana Association for the Gifted as the 2024 Friend of the Gifted Award winner. Ms. Sisson was nominated for this award by a colleague. The Indiana Association for the Gifted takes great pride in honoring those who have significantly, contributed to the field of gifted education. Individuals recognized for this award show exemplary contributions to the support and or nurturing of Indiana’s gifted students.  In addition to her teaching duties, Ms. Sisson has been instrumental in developing the Panther Exploration Project as a graduation pathway at North Central High School. She is one of three lead team members overseeing the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support at NCHS and Culturally Responsive Teaching for the English and Special Education departments, and she developed and administered the New Teacher Academy for new staff to North Central for over a decade. Jocelyn has served as a consultant for College Board as they develop reading and writing sections for the SAT exam and has many years of experience as an AP exam reader. As the North Central International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program Director, Jocelyn has helped all students reach for more challenging academic goals. There is no doubt in my mind that Ms. Sisson likely reads thousands of essays each school year, and we can only imagine the sum of those essays after a 25+ year career in the teaching of English. Congratulations again to our 2024 Friend of the Gifted, Ms. Jocelyn Sisson.

Congratulations to Alex Lantz, a NC teacher, for being honored by a first-generation college student from DePauw University.  Former WT student of yours, Juana Burgara-Partida, has been selected by DePauw University as its Realizing the Dream recipient. You were named as the educator who was most influential in their decision to attend college. Please accept the congratulations of all those associated with this program. It is a distinction in which you can take justifiable pride, knowing you made a difference in a student’s life.  Since 1989 Independent Colleges of Indiana has sponsored Realizing the Dream, a program funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. The program is designed to recognize the achievements of first-generation college students. A first-generation college student is one whose parents did not have the opportunity to pursue and complete formal education beyond high school. We hope, as a result of this recognition, your student will serve as an inspiration and role model for other potential first-generation college students.  In addition to your student’s gratitude, you will receive a grant check for $1,000 at the banquet on March 1, 2025 to use towards professional development. Congratulations again Alex, we love seeing how our educators have and will continue making an impact on our students!

Congratulations to Mr. Steve Auslander, Allisonville Elementary Teacher, for being recognized as the Ambassador of the Kahoot! Cup. What began in 2017 as a small classroom experiment has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon: the Kahoot! Cup. This year’s event, held on November 21-22, brought together 4,400 students from 53 countries, united by their curiosity, creativity, and a shared mission to build bridges through learning. Spearheaded by Kahoot! Ambassador Steve Auslander, the Kahoot! Cup is a shining example of how educational tools can foster global empathy and understanding. In its eighth year of gameplay, the Kahoot! Cup remains a celebrated event. Each year, students and teachers come together for a live, virtual, pop culture quiz tournament! Students from around the world represent their countries with flags, trophies, posters, and banners, engaging in a 30-question kahoot recapping trends, stories, and news from the year prior. Waving across the live Zoom video screen, students across all ages, grades, and ability levels corral for a collaborative, competitive, and all-around awesome live event. In the years since the inaugural event, Steve has themed the Kahoot! Cup with a mantra of “more alike than we are different” driving group success while offering trivia that transcends language and culture, including topics like global events, pop culture, and shared traditions. Congratulations again Mr. Auslander and we are honored to have you as part of the WT staff.

We would like to thank and congratulate Moody’s Butcher Shop and their collaboration with WT’s PACES program/partnership.  NC has three young men as part of their Transition program that work at Moody’s two days a week. Both these days are the days when Moody’s get their shipments in for the store. The student’s jobs are to help restock the refrigerated cases, clean the glass fronts, clean the countertops, clean the front windows, vacuum, organize the refrigerated cases (making sure things are where they’re supposed to go and making sure the closest dates are towards the front), and help label things. Once the students are done for the day, the staff make a snack for them to bring back as a thank you. The young men enjoy working over there as they have learned very important restaurant skills, customer service, stocking skills, and cleaning skills. These young men have also gained more confidence in their skills while working there. The young men have a great relationship with the manager and workers who are extremely patient with them. Mr. Plumber, NC staff member, has worked very closely with Stormy Kramer, Moody’s Manager, to communicate the needs of the business and the students. Together this has fostered a great and meaningful experience. We are very thankful to have Moody’s as a community partner for our transition program.  We would also like to acknowledge Moody’s CEO – Bowman Elder and Lance Shade.  Thank you again for all your support of Washington Township Schools!

At the January Board of Education meeting, Westlane Middle School was spotlighted in the Spotlight on Education. Please review the slides below to see the information and recognitions that were shared.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, INDIANAPOLIS, IN (December 19, 2024) – 

Winners Announced at the 2025 District Administration National Awards Program

Celebrating exceptional leadership, the Woman of the Year award recognizes a trailblazer whose efforts have significantly elevated student outcomes and reshaped the educational landscape.

This year’s distinguished winner is Nikki Woodson from Washington Township Schools in Indiana.

Dr. Nikki Woodson’s visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to student success have earned her this distinguished honor. Her transformative initiatives have not only advanced educational equity but also empowered educators and students to thrive. Dr. Woodson’s innovative strategies continue to inspire educators nationwide and serve as a model of excellence in education.

“This recognition is a testament to the incredible work of our Washington Township team and the resilience of our students. Together, we are creating opportunities that ensure every child reaches their full potential,” said Dr. Woodson.

Amy Dujon, Vice President of Education at DALI, highlighted Dr. Woodson’s achievements, stating, “Dr. Nikki Woodson exemplifies the transformative power of leadership. Her impact on Washington Township Schools and beyond is both profound and enduring. She is a true trailblazer in education.”

Additionally, Spring Mill Elementary principal Kellee Merritt was named a Leader of Distinction. This category honors individuals spearheading groundbreaking initiatives and inspiring educational progress within their districts. 

Congratulations to Principal Merritt and Dr. Woodson for these prestigious recognitions. We are #WTproud.

Visit the 2025 District Administration Awards of Distinction page for a complete list of winners and details about their initiatives.

Additional information about these awards presented on December 18, 2024 in Charlotte Harbor, FL. The District Administration Leadership Institute (DALI) proudly announces the winners of the prestigious 2025 District Administration National Awards Program, celebrating excellence and innovation in education. These awards honor school districts, education leaders, and groundbreaking initiatives that drive meaningful change and inspire progress across America’s schools.

This year’s awards recognize distinguished achievements in six key categories, including Academic Excellence, Ed-Tech Innovation, and Career Pathways, while also spotlighting individual leaders whose visionary strategies are shaping the future of education.

2025 Winners and Finalists

Districts of Distinction

The Districts of Distinction category highlights pioneering programs with proven success, serving as inspiration for replicable models nationwide. Winners include educators driving innovation in student engagement and achievement.

Winners:

• Future Focused – Career Pathways: Christopher Nesmith, Elma School District – Career Pathways and Mastery-Based Learning.

• Academic Excellence: Xavier De La Torre, Ysleta Independent School District – Academic Excellence/CCR.

• Special Programming: Ella Musser, Cocalico School District – DHH Student-Led Program.

• Future Focused – STEM: Cristian Carranza, Miami-Dade County Public Schools – STEM and STEAM Designations.

• Ed-Tech Innovation: Compton Unified School District – Ed-Tech Innovation and Closing the Achievement Gap.

• Wellness: Michelle Carney Ray-Yoder, Central Regional School District – Mental Health App.

• Safety: Chadd Springer, Lake Dallas ISD – School Policing.

Leaders of Distinction

This category honors individuals spearheading groundbreaking initiatives and inspiring educational progress within their districts.

Winners:

• Anna Marie Candelario, CUSD 308, IL.

• Lori Gonzalez, Lamont Elementary School District, MD.

• Neil Gupta, Oakwood Schools, OH.

• Jeff Horton, SouthWest Metro Intermediate District 288, MN.

• Kellee Merritt, MSD Washington Township, IN.

• Doug Straley, Louisa County Public Schools, VA.

• Dr. Shaniece Williams, Montgomery Public Schools, AL.

• Dr. Wayne Vickers, Alabaster City Schools, AL.

• Jermaine Dawson, The School District of Philadelphia, PA.

Women of Distinction

This award recognizes women in education whose exceptional leadership has elevated student outcomes and opportunities.

Winners:

• Laura France, Putnam County School District, FL.

• Zandra Jo Galvan, Greenfield USD, CA.

• Sallie Holloway, Gwinnett County Public Schools, GA.

• Frankie Skinner, Sumner Schools, TN.

• Andrea Stolar, Chicopee Public Schools, MA.

• Nikki Woodson, Washington Township Schools, IN.

Superintendent of the Year

The title of Superintendent of the Year is awarded to Tony Watlington, Sr., of The School District of Philadelphia, PA, for his relentless commitment to fostering student success, driving systemic innovation, and creating equitable educational experiences.

“This recognition belongs to our entire school community. The progress we’ve made would not be possible without the collective dedication of our staff, parents, and students. Together, we are shaping a brighter future,” said Watlington.

Amy Dujon, Vice President of Education at District Administration Leadership Institute, commended Watlington’s leadership, noting, “Tony Watlington has exemplified what it means to lead with integrity, vision, and impact. His bold initiatives and passion for education stand as a beacon of excellence for educators nationwide.”

About the District Administration Leadership Institute (DALI):
The District Administration Leadership Institute stands as the foremost national pre-K12 organization dedicated to empowering district leaders through a comprehensive suite of services. With a commitment to excellence, we offer expert advice, thought-provoking convenings, and practical resources that cater specifically to the dynamic needs of educational leaders. At the heart of our mission is the provision of cutting-edge leadership development opportunities tailored for superintendents and senior staff. We foster an environment that inspires innovation and cultivates leadership excellence within the PreK-12 education sector. The DA Leadership Institute is steadfast in its pursuit of advancing educational leadership, ensuring that our nation’s schools are equipped with the visionary guidance needed to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.  For more information about the awards or to learn how to participate in next year’s program, visit districtadministration.com.

Media Contacts:

Local:

Contact: Ellen Rogers

Community Relations Coordinator, MSDWT

Email: errogers@msdwt.k12.in.us 

DA Media Contact:

Amy Dujon
VP of Education
amy.dujon@etcnetwork.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Ellen Rogers

Community Relations Coordinator, MSDWT

Email: errogers@msdwt.k12.in.us

 North Central High School Diploma Statement

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (December 13, 2024) – Our district leadership team has been actively reviewing and discussing the proposed changes to Indiana’s high school diploma requirements. These discussions have involved our teaching and learning leaders, middle school administrators, and North Central High School’s leadership team.

The Indiana Department of Education has recognized the need to redesign the high school diploma based on concerning data about student readiness. According to the IDOE, Indiana graduates often lack the essential career skills that Indiana companies seek. Additionally, while Indiana ranks #1 nationwide for students completing at least one college course in high school (with 64% of students earning an average of 13.5 college credits), only 5% of these students earn a credential before graduation, indicating a significant missed opportunity to better prepare students for their future careers. Building on Indiana’s diploma redesign, North Central is committed to implementing these new requirements thoughtfully to serve all students. Our implementation will maintain our strong college preparation focus while creating flexible pathways that empower every student to graduate ready for their chosen future – whether that’s higher education, immediate career entry, or military service. We will balance the flexibility of the new diploma while ensuring we are not exacerbating any disproportionalities in access or outcomes. We’re excited about this opportunity to better align our diploma program with the diverse goals and needs of our student body.

In January, we will communicate these changes and their impact on current 8th grade students through multiple channels:

• Wednesday, January 15 at 6:00 PM we invite all Washington Township families to join this informative webinar. Please register in advance  HERE.
• District ParentSquare newsletter
• Secondary school newsletters
• North Central Curriculum Night

We are committed to the academic excellence of all students. We are #WTPROUD.

Dr. Nataki Pettigrew,  Chief Academic & DEI Officer

Dr. Rachel Sever, Director of Teaching & Learning, Grades 9-12

Mr. Jagga Rent, North Central High School Principal

Mrs. Melissa Patchett, Director of High School Counseling

 

 

We invite you to join us as Dr. Sean Taylor engages with Washington Township stakeholders to hear the community’s thoughts and vision for the future of our District.

Eastwood MS, February 18

Westlane  MS, March 18

Northview MS,  March 20

All engagement opportunities are 7-8 PM in the school cafetorium, and will each follow the same agenda. Interested stakeholders need to attend only one opportunity.

District Strategic Planning Efforts:

• Surveys: Launch week of Dec. 2; window closes Dec. 16
• Focus Groups with various stakeholders including students: Begin week of Dec. 9 and conclude by Dec. 20
• Initial Data Review by Steering Committee in January
• Listening Tours in February and March
• Initial Draft of Strategic Plan priorities in March

If you are not able to attend one of the community opportunities, please feel free to reach out to Dr. Sean Taylor by sending an email to staylor@msdwt.k12.in.us

At the December meeting of the WT Board of Education, Eastwood Middle School was recognized in the Spotlight on Education. Please review the slides below to see the information and recognitions that were shared.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Ellen Rogers, Communications Manager

Email: errogers@msdwt.k12.in.us

 

WT Continues Significant Compensation Increases to Ensure Highly Qualified Diverse Staff in Classrooms

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (November 22, 2024) – On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, the Washington Township School Board approved a resolution to significantly increase staff compensation.  This decision underscores our unwavering commitment to attracting and retaining high-quality diverse educators who are dedicated to the success of our students.

This pay increase will provide teachers with a well-deserved raise, reflecting the essential role they play in shaping the future of our students and community. This move is part of the district’s ongoing effort to ensure that our educators are compensated competitively, recognizing their hard work and the growing demands of the profession.

“Our teachers are the heart of our schools, and we recognize the vital role they play in fostering student growth and achievement,” said Superintendent Dr. Woodson . “This pay increase is a reflection of our gratitude for their dedication and our commitment to providing the resources and support they need to continue their important work in the classroom.”

The approved salary increases are the result of collaborative efforts between the district and the Washington Township Education Association.  Additionally, the district is dedicated to supporting its educators not only through competitive compensation, but also by offering ongoing professional development, enhancing classroom resources and support, and fostering a positive work environment.

By passing this resolution the board has approved a  $4000 base salary increase and a $1300 one-time stipend for all eligible teachers this school year. This is an 8.5% average increase in total compensation for our teachers in 2024-2025.

This compensation increase continues a series of years in Washington Township where teachers have seen the highest salary growth in the history of the district. Many teachers who have been with the district over the last 7 school years have seen their base salary increase over $20,000, have received over $5000 in stipends, and have seen no increase in the cost of health, dental, or vision insurance.

Additionally, the Washington Township School Board also approved substantial compensation increases for non-teaching staff including instructional assistants, cafeteria staff, school resource officers, custodians, transportation staff, and many other important roles.  Many of these staff also saw an increase in paid time off and retirement benefits this year as well.

These staff compensation increases were made possible in part by the significant increases in student enrollment, over 800 students in the last two years. This significant surge in enrollment across all grade levels is a testament to the great things happening in our classrooms and affords us the opportunity to provide even greater compensation increases to teachers and staff than were previously planned.  The district is thrilled that parents are choosing WTS for their child’s education!

To join the Washington Township education team, please visit the WTS website.

At the November 13, 2024 Regular Meeting of the Board of Education the following individuals were recognized for helping to make Washington Township a Superior School District.

Congratulations to Mr. Andrew Rice, Automotive Service Technology instructor at JEL.  He is one of 25 winners of the 2024 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence! To honor Mr. Rice for this achievement, Harbor Freight had a surprise award ceremony at J. Everett Light Career Center on Tuesday, October 16th. The prize is the flagship program of Harbor Freight Tools for Schools. In its eighth year, the prize is designed to shine a light on excellent skilled trades teachers and programs – and bring attention and respect to this vital field. The prize comes with a cash award of $50,000. JEL Automotive Services program will receive 70%, and Andrew will receive 30%. Congratulations Mr. Rice, we are thrilled to share in this amazing achievement with you!

Congratulations to Mr. Bill Turner, Board President, as he was named the recipient of the 2024 Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award by the Council of Urban Boards of Education.  He was recognized at the CUBE Conference back in October. It was an honor to nominate him for this award for an exceptional 14 years of board service. The Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award annually recognizes one individual nationally who has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the educational needs of urban school children through their service as a local school board member. The award is named for Benjamin Elijah Mays, who joined the Atlanta Board of Education in 1969 and served as its president from 1970-1981. During his tenure on the board, Mays worked tirelessly to provide equal educational opportunities for children. He is also remembered for his outstanding leadership and service as a scholar, teacher, minister, mentor, author, and civil rights activist. Congratulations again President Turner, we are extremely grateful for all your dedication and hard work throughout your years serving on the WT School Board!

At the November meeting of the Board of Education, the Spotlight on Education was on North Central High School.

Review the slides below to see the information and recognitions shared by North Central High School.

Congratulations Mr. Turner!

Earlier this week, Washington Township School Board President and education champion, Mr. Bill Turner received the 2024 Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award from the Council of Urban Boards of Education (CUBE)!

Please join us in congratulating Mr. Turner on this well-deserved recognition.

See the full press release below and watch the congratulations video here:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
November 7, 2024

Media Contact: 
Jason Amos 

jamos@nsba.org  
703-838-6719 

Indianapolis School Board Member Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

Council of Urban Boards of Education Honors Washington Township’s William Turner

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The National School Boards Association’s Council of Urban Boards of Education (CUBE) presented the 2024 Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award to William Turner, School Board President of the Metropolitan School District of Washington Township in Indiana. This prestigious award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the educational needs of urban school children through their service as a local school board member. Turner received the award during the 2024 CUBE Annual Conference in Las Vegas on Oct. 29, before an audience of nearly 1,000 urban school board members and education leaders.

“On behalf of the Council of Urban Boards of Education (CUBE), I am honored to congratulate Bill Turner on receiving the 2024 Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Gill Garrett, CUBE Chair and school board member of the Pontiac School District in Michigan. “Mr. Turner’s unwavering dedication to educational equity and his transformative work — from his early days in the Washington Township School system to his current role as Associate Vice President for Jobs for the Future — exemplify the spirit of this prestigious award.”

In his 14-year service to the Metro School District of Washington Township, William (Bill) Turner helped implement a successful supplier diversity initiative that resulted in over $110 million directed to firms owned by women, minorities, veterans, and the physically challenged. Throughout the process, Mr. Turner’s steadfast support and consensus-building made the program highly successful. Along with his support of diverse businesses, he helped lead work to direct students to in-demand career opportunities by exposing them to advanced manufacturing and construction fields.

The award is named for Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mays, who joined the Atlanta Board of Education in 1969 and served as its president from 1970-1981. During his tenure on the board, Mays worked tirelessly to provide equal educational opportunities for children. He is also remembered for his outstanding leadership and service as a scholar, teacher, minister, mentor, author, and civil rights activist. 

“It was an honor to nominate our remarkable leader, Mr. Bill Turner, president of the Washington Township School Board, for the prestigious Dr. Benjamin E. Mays Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Dr. Nikki Woodson, Superintendent of Washington Township Schools in Indianapolis. “Under his extraordinary 14 years of board service to our school district leadership and his belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive regardless of their background, our district has flourished, ensuring that every child has access to quality education. With his commitment to both excellence and inclusion, Mr. Turner sets the tone of excellence in urban education for our schools, is the epitome of an engaged public school board member, and embodies the vision from Dr. Mays through his governance work on the school board in Washington Township.”

“Bill Turner’s career exemplifies the power of visionary leadership in urban education,” said Verjeana McCotter-Jacobs, Executive Director and CEO of the National School Boards Association. “His unwavering commitment to equity, inclusion, and student success has had a transformative impact on the Washington Township community and beyond. The Benjamin Elijah Mays Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting tribute to his decades of service, and we are proud to honor his extraordinary contributions to public education. Mr. Turner’s work continues to inspire school board members across the nation to lead with integrity, passion, and a steadfast focus on creating opportunities for all students.”

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Founded in 1940, the National School Boards Association’s (NSBA) purpose is to ensure each student everywhere has access to excellent and equitable public education governed by high-performing school board leaders and supported by the community. With members spread across the United States, the Virgin Islands, and Canada, NSBA is the only national organization representing school boards. Along with its member state associations and member public school districts representing locally elected school board officials serving millions of public school students, NSBA believes that public education is a civil right necessary to the dignity and freedom of the American people and that each child, regardless of their ability, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, identity, or citizenship, deserves equitable access to an education that maximizes their individual potential. Learn more at www.nsba.org.