OnDemand: Understanding the Purpose of Board Meetings, Work Sessions, and Standing Committees

This interactive microcredential helps school board members better understand how to use three of their most important governance tools effectively: board meetings, work sessions, and committees. Participants will learn the unique purpose of each, how they are intended to function under Virginia law and best governance practices, and why these tools must remain board-driven — not staff-driven. Using practical examples and real-world scenarios, this course helps board members build confidence in running productive work sessions, maintaining transparency during meetings, and using committees effectively without losing board authority or accountability. This training is especially valuable for boards that want clearer governance processes, more productive discussions, stronger oversight, and better collaboration with the superintendent and division leadership. Once you purchase this microcredential, use the provided URL to create your Reach account. After your account is set up, you will have access to the course within 24 hours. You only need to create your Reach account once, and all current and future SBMA digital courses will be available through the Reach platform.