This podcast features an interview with Elisa Hoffman, a former Cincinnati School Board member and the visionary founder of School Board School. We discuss common misconceptions about the role of school board members and dive deep on civic engagement, exploring various pathways individuals can take to become advocates and serve their communities. The conversation highlights the significance of public comment in local governance and offers practical advice on how community members can effectively utilize this often-underestimated tool, and how districts can better support authentic community engagement. We engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the role of philanthropy in strengthening grassroots advocacy and public service, examining how charitable organizations can better support and empower individuals dedicated to this vital work. Tune in to learn how to make your voice heard and contribute meaningfully to your local community.
Show notes:
Collins, J. (2021). Should School Boards Be in Charge? The Effects of Exposure to Participatory and Deliberative School Board Meetings. Peabody Journal of Education, 96(3), 341–355. https://doi.org/10.1080/0161956X.2021.1943239
S-BYE (School Board and Youth Engagement Lab), Teachers College, Columbia University, https://www.tc.columbia.edu/sbye/
School Board School, https://www.schoolboardschool.org/
