2026 Southern Region Leadership Conference

As schools continue to face evolving safety challenges, strong School Resource Officer (SRO) programs are more important than ever. Join Lt. Jordan Kelley, NASRO Region 6 Director and instructor, as he shares best practices for developing and sustaining high-quality SRO units that protect, educate, and build positive relationships with students, staff, and the community.

In today’s complex and often polarized educational landscape, school boards are increasingly called to make high-stakes decisions under pressure, making how boards navigate disagreement more important than ever. This session draws on Arkansas data examining school board voting patterns, including split votes, failed motions, and the issues most likely to produce division. Grounded in real-world practice, the session then moves beyond the data to focus on what effective board members can do in the moment. Attendees will leave with practical, actionable strategies to lead through disagreement in ways that strengthen governance, improve decision quality, and keep student success at the center.

Effective school board governance requires more than well-run meetings—it demands clear processes, transparent communication, and strong alignment to district priorities. In this session, board members will explore practical approaches to improving governance through structured workflows, better access to information, and intentional use of technology. Rather than focusing on tools, this session highlights how boards can reduce risk, improve public trust, and make more informed decisions in today’s complex environment.

In today's rapidly changing educational environment, school board members are often challenged to manage personal and political preferences as they ponder the greater good of the educational community. As politics and outside interests collide, the role of the school board member is often at odds with the reality and responsibility of the role: School board members are curators of educational advancement and student opportunity. However, in a climate of rapid communication and immediate gratification, the role of the modern school member has become complex, challenging, and at times, chaotic. This interactive learning session is designed to provide school board members with strategies that just might help them manage their roles as educational policy makers.

School facilities represent one of a district's largest investments, and school boards play a critical role in ensuring those assets are maintained for current and future generations of students. This session will explore the financial side of facilities management, including long-term maintenance planning, capital improvement strategies, budgeting for repairs and replacements, and making informed decisions that maximize taxpayer investments. Participants will gain practical insights into balancing immediate needs with long-term financial sustainability while fulfilling their governance responsibilities.

Today's school leaders face a rapidly changing landscape shaped by evolving legal requirements, increased school choice options, heightened public expectations, and ongoing workforce challenges. This session explores practical strategies for leading schools in the modern era, including navigating legal and compliance issues, strengthening communication, managing people effectively, and using marketing and storytelling to showcase what makes your district unique. Participants will learn how to proactively tell their school's story, build trust with stakeholders, attract and retain students and staff, and position their district for success in an increasingly competitive educational environment.