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COSSBA Update for June 2025

  • Date Posted
    June 25, 2025
  • Category
    COSSBA
Registration continues for the COSSBA Federal Advocacy Conference in Washington D.C. To learn more about this opportunity to have your district’s voice heard at the national level, watch the video: COSSBA Federal Advocacy Early Bird Registration and then read on for details from COSSBA.

State School Board Leaders to Gather in Washington, D.C., for 2025 Federal Advocacy Conference
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bob Woodward to keynote national event

The Consortium of State School Boards Associations (COSSBA) will host its annual Federal Advocacy Conference from September 7–9, 2025, at the Grand Hyatt Washington, bringing together education leaders from across the country to advocate for strong public schools and informed education policy.

The conference theme, "Your Voice. Your Impact. Your Moment," underscores the urgency and opportunity for school board members, superintendents, and public education advocates to engage with federal decision-makers on the policies shaping America’s schools.

This year’s keynote speaker is Bob Woodward, the renowned investigative journalist and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner. Best known for his work uncovering the Watergate scandal and for co-authoring All the President’s Men, Woodward will share insights on government transparency, leadership, and the role of public institutions in a thriving democracy.

“The Federal Advocacy Conference empowers local education leaders to bring their voice to the nation’s capital,” said incoming COSSBA Executive Director Kathy McFarland. “Together, we are shaping a future where public education is valued, supported, and strengthened.”

In addition to keynote sessions and legislative briefings, the conference will feature advocacy training, policy panels with national education experts, and opportunities to meet with congressional representatives on September 9. Early bird registration is $675 per person through July 18. After that date, the registration fee increases to $750. To register and learn more, visit the COSSBA Federal Advocacy Conference webpages.

UBA Webinar Series
August 13 brings about the next COSSBA/United Boards Alliance webinar: Integration of AI in Education, presented by Robert Joseph, Ph.D., a Data Scientist, Educator, and Co-Founder of Team MindShift, focusing on talent transformation and workforce development.

The webinar is scheduled for 11 a.m.-Noon (CDT) and IASB members are encouraged to register to attend.

Join COSSBA for an insightful one-hour session designed specifically for board of education members, superintendents, educators, administrators, and staff to explore the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. Gain a clear understanding of what AI is, its practical impact on teaching and learning, and strategies for addressing common concerns among educators. Discover approachable ways to comfortably integrate AI into your district's educational practices, empowering your teams to leverage technology confidently for enhanced educational outcomes. This informative session will equip you with valuable insights and actionable steps to embrace AI effectively within your educational community.