OSBA Leading the Way

Artificial intelligence is already shaping how students learn, search and create. But how can schools use AI responsibly — and effectively?In this episode of Leading the Way, host Scott Gerfen sits down with Kathryn Cerminara, senior manager of sales at Lincoln Learning Solutions, to break down how AI is being used in Ohio classrooms, what makes Ohio a leader in K-12 AI policy, and how school boards can take the first steps toward smart AI integration.🔹 Why AI belongs in classrooms but doesn’t replace teachers🔹 What Lincoln AI is and how it supports student learning🔹 How to approach AI with purpose, not just products🔹 What school leaders and parents should know right now🎧 Sponsored by Lincoln Learning Solutions

Advocacy is one of the most powerful ways school board members can make a difference — not just in their districts, but across the state and nation.In this episode of Leading the Way, host Scott Gerfen talks with Jocelyn Spencer Rhynard of Dayton City Schools and Bill Ferguson Jr. of Hamilton County ESC and Great Oaks Career Campuses. Fresh off their trip to Washington, D.C., for the Consortium of State School Boards Associations' Federal Advocacy Conference, they share:• Why telling your story is the heart of effective advocacy.• How to build relationships with lawmakers and their staff.• Tips for overcoming the fear of getting started and finding your voice.Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or a first-time school board member, this episode will inspire you to take action and make an impact for your students and community.📢 Key message: Strong schools need strong voices.Learn how you can be a champion for public education!Subscribe for more episodes of Leading the Way and stay connected to the voices shaping Ohio’s future.Thank you to our sponsor: Lincoln Learning Solutions -- https://www.lincolnlearningsolutions.org.

In this episode of Leading the Way, host Scott Gerfen examines the Ohio General Assembly’s push to change the state’s property tax system — and the consequences it could have for schools, students and communities.Guests Dr. Howard Fleeter of the Ohio Education Policy Institute and Nicole Piscitani from OSBA’s Legislative Services team explain why property taxes have long been a cornerstone of school funding. They break down how the proposed changes could reduce the resources schools need to help students succeed, while offering little real relief to homeowners. The conversation also explores what the future of property tax legislation could mean for Ohio’s classrooms.Sponsored by Lincoln Learning Solutions. Get more information at https://www.lincolnlearningsolutions.org.

In this episode of Leading the Way, host Scott Gerfen sits down with John Ondo, OSBA’s media consultant, and Josh Gallagan, digital design instructor at Delaware Area Career Center. Together, they explore why media is the language of today — and how schools can use it to connect with their communities, inspire students and tell their unique stories.From using smartphones as powerful storytelling tools to building award-winning student programs, this conversation dives into practical strategies for school boards, superintendents, and educators to effectively engage audiences across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and more.Whether you’re a school leader, teacher, or board member, this episode offers insights on embracing media to lead with transparency, build trust and showcase the amazing things happening in your district.🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations shaping public education in Ohio! Thank you to our sponsor, Lincoln Learning Solutions. Learn more at https://www.lincolnlearningsolutions.org.

In this episode, OSBA Senior Transportation Consultant Doug Palmer joins us to explore why selecting the most senior bus driver isn’t always the best move when hiring a transportation manager. Palmer shares insights on what school districts should look for in leadership roles within the transportation department and how strategic hiring can impact safety, efficiency and staff morale. Thanks to our sponsor, Pappas & Associates