With major funding questions looming at both the state and federal levels, school districts are facing considerable uncertainty. This one-day workshop is designed to give MASA members the critical updates, legal insights, and practical tools needed to navigate decision-making and respond strategically.

District leaders will hear directly from policy, finance, and legal experts – along with veteran Superintendents who’ve led through similar challenges – and walk away with guidance and resources to help prepare for potential budget shifts, staffing decisions, and tough conversations ahead.

When: Thursday, Aug. 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Virtual via Zoom
Cost: $150

Learning Targets

Workshop participants will:

  • Get the latest updates on school funding and budget developments at both the state and federal levels.
  • Understand the legal landscape around layoffs, recalls, board policies, and contract language related to staff reductions.
  • Learn practical strategies from veteran superintendents who have successfully navigated mid-year cuts and fiscal uncertainty.
  • Connect with experts in school finance, policy, and law to strengthen your professional support network.

Agenda

8:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. | Setting the Stage

8:45 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. | State & Federal Financial Landscape and Q&A
Matt Schueller, Director of Government Relations, MASA and Bob Dwan, Executive Director, MSBO
Get the latest updates on school funding developments at both the state and federal levels. This session will break down the most recent budget news from Lansing and Washington, D.C., with analysis on how it could affect your district’s bottom line – including per-pupil funding, grants, and Title allocations. We’ll also explore how ongoing financial uncertainty may shape staffing decisions and planning timelines. Be sure to bring your questions for a Q&A!

10:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Break

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | The Legal Essentials of Staff Reductions and Q&A
MaryJo Banasik, Associate, Thrun Law Firm, P.C.
This session will walk through the critical legal components of staff reductions, including layoff and recall procedures, required staff notifications, and navigating timelines within contract and policy language. Participants will also explore best practices for communicating with the Board of Education during financially turbulent times. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask specific questions and get expert guidance on complex legal questions.

12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. | Lunch

12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. | A Local Perspective: Lessons from the Field
Hear directly from seasoned superintendents who have navigated financial uncertainty and managed mid-year budget cuts in real time. This panel will share practical strategies, lessons learned, and what they wish they had known going into difficult financial seasons. A candid, solution-focused conversation designed to support leaders facing similar challenges.

1:45 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Moving Forward: Member Needs & Next Steps