Nathan Fent

This document presents an analysis of how Artificial Intelligence (AI) impacts all areas of public agency operations. It focuses on the legal and operational considerations, emphasizing the need for organizations to develop policies and procedures for responsible AI use. Key areas addressed include mitigating legal liability, ensuring data privacy (especially for personally identifiable, student, and medical information), navigating labor implications, and establishing ethical guidelines for AI integration in areas such as staff efficiency tools, surveillance systems, and educational software. The discussion advocates for a balanced approach that leverages AI's potential benefits for efficiency, safety, and accommodations, while proactively addressing risks like privacy violations and academic integrity.

The report covered the MSBA Summer Summit held on June 24th and 25th, which featured a keynote presentation by generational expert Megan Johnson focusing on generational diversity and bringing out the strengths of every generation. The summit also included an awards lunch recognizing the 2024 Statewide Belter scholarship winner and board members achieving advanced certification levels. During the delegate assembly, Jonathan Russell was sworn in as the new MSBA President, highlighting literacy education as a key focus area due to its impact on academic performance, mental health, and civic engagement. New MSBA state officers were elected, and the contributions of outgoing president Ruth Johnson were recognized with a symbolic art piece. The report concluded by noting that positions on state and federal education issues will be determined at the upcoming Delegate Assembly in October, and registration is open for the 2024 MSBA Annual Conference in Kansas City in October.

The report covered updates on several initiatives and general board business. Key discussion points included the formation of a Missouri school safety task force, established by executive order to develop a statewide school safety plan by July 31st, which will utilize resources from the MSBA Center for Education Safety. The task force aims for a comprehensive perspective on safety, including bullying and student feelings of security from bus ride to dismissal. Additionally, the report highlighted the positive impact of fine arts education on student outcomes, such as attendance and test scores, following the Missouri Alliance for Arts Education's annual event at the Capitol. Information was provided regarding mandatory training for newly elected Board of Education members, the upcoming MSBA Leadership Summit in June, and the spring delegate assembly where state officers will be elected.

Joplin Schools' 21st Century Learning vision aims to prepare students to be college and career ready for a global environment. The initiatives emphasize high-quality education and student success through personalized learning, project-based learning, and interdisciplinary opportunities. It integrates technology to enhance learning and supports individual student talents and needs, ensuring students reach their full potential and become future-focused citizens.

The report primarily addresses the process for searching for the new Commissioner of Education. The State Board of Education voted on an accelerated timeline for accepting applications, which was met with criticism regarding insufficient input from educators and legislators. Concerns were also raised about the confirmation process for recent appointees by the Missouri Senate. Furthermore, the report touches upon anticipated legislative topics for the 2018 General Assembly, including state funding for K-12 education, specifically noting the required increase for the foundation formula and early childhood education funding, as well as potential discussions on charter school expansion and voucher schemes. Upcoming events mentioned include the Legislative Forum Public Schools Day at the Capitol in February and School Board Recognition Week in January.