School board members are public officials and must abide by the Constitution, state and federal laws and regulations. The Basic Course is an overview of the key responsibilities of  school board members. 

Why new school board members must take the 12-Hour Basic Course: As required by MS Code Section 37-7-306, new school board members must complete the Basic Course within six months of their election / appointment to the school board. Failure to do so could result in removal from office.

To receive credit, new board members must attend both days of this two-day course. The two-day course schedule generally begins on Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and continues Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Superintendents are encouraged to attend the Basic Course with their new board members and upon completion are eligible to receive 10 hours SEMI Credit.

There is no charge for the Basic Course for new board members, but board members must pre-register. However, districts will be responsible for their meals and lodging.