Patty Quessenberry, long-standing Ozark School Board of Education member, recently earned both advanced and master certifications from the Missouri Schools Boards’ Association. 

According to the MSBA news release, the board member certification program established by MSBA recognizes school board members who choose to complete additional professional development requirements beyond the 18.5 hours of training required by the Outstanding Schools Act of 1993 for new board members. 

“I made this a personal commitment, because I recognize the value of continuing education to help me be a more effective member of my governance team at both the state and local levels,” Quessenberry said. 

In order to achieve both an advanced and master certification, board members must earn at least 24 additional training credits, complete an annual refresher training requirement through MSBA, read four books related to school board service, attend at least four MSBA regional or statewide events and write a brief essay relating to their studies to their board service. 

“If we as board members have an expectation that all school administrators and staff should have continued professional development, then it should also be an expectation of a board member,” Quessenberry said. 

MSBA Executive Director Melissa Randol congratulated Quessenberry and thanked her for her commitment.

“You obviously recognize the value of continuing education to help you be an effective member of your governance team,” she said. “Thank you for your commitment to your district and the school children of Missouri.”

Ozark School Board President Sarah Adams Orr, right, presents Patty Quessenberry with her MSBA advanced and master certifications during a recent meeting.