The School Board Member Alliance (SBMA) hosted its first-ever Legislative Roundtable in Richmond, giving school board members across Virginia practical tools and tips to advocate for their communities. Founding Freedoms Law Center attorney Josh Hetzler led an interactive session on how school boards can lobby effectively.

“SBMA believes tax dollars should not be used to lobby,” Executive Director Shelly Norden said. “Our alliance is all about empowering our members. We want them to have the tools and confidence to advocate for their communities independently.”

During the event, members received resources like a list of key dates for submitting bills, tips on how to lobby effectively, and guidance on setting up legislative committees within their own school boards.

The day also included a special visit with Attorney General Jason Miyares, followed by a tour of the state capitol. Members then met one-on-one with legislators, including Del. Bill Wiley, Del. Wendel Walker, Del. Chad Green, Sen. David Suetterlein, and Sen. Danny Diggs, to discuss pressing issues in education.

Attendees said the event’s combination of networking, hands-on advice, and access to decision-makers made it a standout experience. One member noted, “Getting advice from Josh and sharing ideas with other board members was incredibly helpful.” Another added, “Josh’s legal insights are crucial for handling challenges in our division.”

The event was a powerful example of SBMA’s commitment to equipping school board members with the skills and connections they need to push for education policies that truly benefit Virginia’s students and communities.