How AASB Works for You
AASB is involved actively in the state and federal governmental process to ensure participation on school boards' behalf.
State Legislative Efforts
If the state Legislature is in session, the AASB staff is monitoring its proceedings. AASB seeks sponsors for needed legislation, testifies on the effects of proposed legislation and lobbies in support of (or opposition to) pending bills. As registered lobbyists, AASB staff members work diligently to inform legislators of the impact of proposed legislation from school boards' perspective.
State Board of Education
AASB closely monitors the State Board of Education activities and works to keep individual board members apprised of local school boards' concerns. AASB also monitors the activities of the state Department of Education, participating in program development when appropriate and representing the local lay management viewpoint.
Other State Entities
AASB works in concert with the Governor, the state Attorney General, the state Examiners of Public Accounts, the Alabama Ethics Commission, the state Tenure Commission and other appropriate state agencies to address various education and related issues.
National Efforts
AASB is a member of the National School Boards Association (NSBA), which works at the federal level to influence legislation, promote local control of public education and improve the quality of educational opportunities offered. NSBA advocates school board interests by assisting state associations and by serving as a liaison with other national education organizations and government agencies. NSBA also coordinates a nationwide Federal Relations Network to promote improved communications with congressional leaders. At least one board member from each congressional district in the nation is involved in the network. FRN members are responsible for communicating with their congressmen regularly regarding school management issues.
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