Public Comment and Open Meetings: A Guide for Board Members and Administrators

Dealing with public comments, protestors, and angry patrons requires a clear understanding of the law on free speech. Join us to learn about handling disruptions and emotional pleas while upholding your responsibility to conduct school business during your board meetings.

Workshop materials will be available for registered attendees the morning of the workshop through the OSSBA member portal.

Have a question for the panel to address during the workshop? Submit it in advance here.

Public Comment and Open Meetings: A Guide for Board Members and Administrators is eligible for 1 ethics credit and 1 open meeting act credit for school board members.

Online registration is available through the OSSBA member portal. For information or questions about the member portal, please contact Lisa Deaton or Jennifer Carel by email with your name, district, and email address or call 888.528.3571.

Registration is $100 for OSSBA members, $200 for non-members. Registrations are due by September 24. In-person registrations after the deadline are $125 ($250 for non-members). Notice of in-person registration cancellation must be received in writing by the registration due date for a refund (less a $25 cancellation fee). No refunds will be offered after the due date. Virtual registrations are not subject to a price increase or cancellation fee. 

In-person attendance will be limited to enable social distancing, and in-person attendees are encouraged to wear masks. Please note the safety protocols may change in accordance with local or state health directives.