By Dr. John Thomsen, Neola Director of Engagement and Policy “With complex regulations constantly evolving, how can public boards stay ahead of the game? And how can they be efficient and effective in their efforts?” Public-sector boards are facing an increasingly complex regulatory environment — and preparing for 2026 will require clarity, proactive planning, and […]
As the 2026 legislative session approaches, Florida lawmakers have introduced a sweeping slate of proposals aimed at significantly reducing or restructuring property taxes – changes that could reshape how local services are funded. What are the proposed changes? The core of the reform is a set of proposed House Joint Resolutions that must be passed […]
Neola is proud to collaborate with our national education law partner, Husch Blackwell, at the Education Law Association (ELA) Annual Conference in Kansas City, MO. Together, our teams are leading multiple sessions focused on the most timely and complex legal and policy issues impacting schools today. The Education Law Association is dedicated to fostering thoughtful […]
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 […]