The presence of cell phones in K-12 schools has long been a topic of public and academic debate. Supporters of restrictions contend that limiting access during school hours reduces distractions, increases engagement, and fosters better social interaction, while critics warn of unintended consequences such as more disciplinary actions and reduced emergency communication options. Over the […]
Neola is proud to announce a new partnership with the Michigan Leadership Institute (MLI), designed to strengthen support for Michigan’s school leaders through policy-focused collaboration, professional learning, and leadership development. This partnership brings together two organizations deeply committed to advancing student-centered leadership and effective governance in Michigan’s public schools. Neola provides schools with current, compliant, […]
Neola, a leader in customized, legally vetted school board policy development, is proud to announce a new partnership with the Oakland University Galileo Institute in Michigan. This collaboration aims to inform, educate, and inspire upcoming teacher leaders, principals, central office administrators and superintendents on the mission-critical role of policy before they step into their district […]
Dr. Jim Halik, superintendent of the Edinburgh Community School Corporation and Indiana Neola Associate, has been named the 2025 Lorin A. Burt Educator of the Year by the Indiana School Boards Association (ISBA). Dr. Halik has dedicated the past 51 years to education—28 of them as a superintendet, 19 as a principal, and the rest […]
Givebacks, a centralized platform purpose-built for districts that unites payments, fundraising, and reconciliation, and Neola, a leader in customized, legally vetted school board policy development, are proud to announce a strategic partnership designed to simplify and strengthen compliance for school districts across the country. Building the System Behind the Standards Across the nation, lawmakers are […]
In a ground-breaking move, Florida passed the Second Chance Act (Senate Bill 1070), a statewide requirement that all high school athletes undergo an electrocardiogram (EKG) before participating in sports. The law, championed by Governor Ron DeSantis and legislators including Senator Cory Simon and Representative Jason Shoaf, was enacted in June and is named in honor […]
Florida’s proposed amendment to lower property taxes has sparked significant discussion, particularly regarding its impact on public school funding. Property tax revenue serves as a crucial financial source for school districts, supporting essential services, staffing, and educational programs. With potential reductions in this revenue stream, School Boards will need to adapt their policies to maintain […]
Neola to Present at KASBO 2025 Spring Conference in Louisville Neola, Inc., a trusted partner in policy development for school districts across the country, is proud to announce its participation in the Kentucky Association of School Business Officials (KASBO) 2025 Spring Conference, taking place in Louisville on May 8, 2025. As part of its ongoing […]
By Amanda Clapp, President, Neola Change is inevitable. In the ever-evolving landscape of education, School Boards must remain agile, prepared, and proactive in adapting to new challenges. Whether it’s legislative updates, technological advancements, shifting demographics, or unforeseen crises, effective policy practices provide a structured framework to help Boards remain compliant, efficient, and forward-thinking. At Neola, […]
Introduction Upon assuming the role of Superintendent at Au Gres-Sims School District five years ago, Chris Ming encountered various policy challenges. These included implementing virtual access for board members, ensuring compliance with the Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR), and updating Title IX policies. Initially, the district navigated these updates independently, leading to a fragmented […]