Transparent Conversations (1 of 5): Professional Learning

Episode 2 of a 5 part series on transparent conversations featuring NJSBA's Business Administrator in Residence. Transparency isn't just a buzzword for us at NJSBA; it is a foundational value that guides every discussion, decision, and action that we take. Transparency is key to the success of any organization; a willingness to have open and honest conversations helps break down communication barriers, reduces the potential for misunderstandings and engages stakeholders in a closer relationship with the organization.   Transparency also builds trust and credibility, which is important for a positive environment and essential for any membership organization. Transparency isn’t always easy.  You must be willing to talk about your challenges, your vulnerabilities and your failures, and those conversations can sometimes be uncomfortable. Leaders are—and should be—held accountable, but accountability entails taking responsibility for mistakes and moving forward to working on solutions. These transparent discussions will lead us to a stronger organization. When members are fully informed, they are more supportive, understanding and engaged. With The Boardroom podcast, we bring this commitment to each of you, our valued stakeholders and community.

Episode 1 of a 5 part series on transparent conversations featuring NJSBA's Director of Professional Learning, Marcia Lavigne. Transparency isn't just a buzzword for us at NJSBA; it is a foundational value that guides every discussion, decision, and action that we take. Transparency is key to the success of any organization; a willingness to have open and honest conversations helps break down communication barriers, reduces the potential for misunderstandings and engages stakeholders in a closer relationship with the organization.   Transparency also builds trust and credibility, which is important for a positive environment and essential for any membership organization. Transparency isn’t always easy.  You must be willing to talk about your challenges, your vulnerabilities and your failures, and those conversations can sometimes be uncomfortable. Leaders are—and should be—held accountable, but accountability entails taking responsibility for mistakes and moving forward to working on solutions. These transparent discussions will lead us to a stronger organization. When members are fully informed, they are more supportive, understanding and engaged. With The Boardroom podcast, we bring this commitment to each of you, our valued stakeholders and community.

This edition of THE BOARDROOM features the New Jersey School Boards Association President, Irene M. LeFebvre. LeFebvre served on the Boonton Town Board of Education for 26 of the past 27 years, serving as president and vice president several times, and chairing many board committees. She led the board through NJSBA board certification twice, serving as chair during the process, and served as liaison to the Morris County Educational Services Commission. She served on the NJSBA Board of Directors as an alternate and as a member representing Morris County. While on the Morris County School Boards Association, LeFebvre served as president, member of the executive committee and vice president of legislation, and as representative on the NJSBA County Association Leadership (CAL) committee. LeFebvre was named the NJSBA School Board Member of the Year for 2020-2021, and has earned her Certified Board Member, Master Board Member, and Certified Board Leader certifications through the NJSBA Board Member Academy. Her NJSBA task force membership includes Opportunities for Non-College-Bound Learner Task Force; Ambassador Program: Career Focused Students; Task Force on the Delivery of Mental Health Services; Health and Wellness Steering Committee. As chair of the NJSBA Special Education Standing Committee, LeFebvre has presented testimony to both the state Senate and Assembly Education Committees and the Montclair State University Summer Conference on Special Education. LeFebvre is currently retired. She taught math at Boonton High School, and at the Passaic County Educational Services Commission (PCESC) in its alternative education program. She then served as assistant principal, principal and director of educational programs at PCESC until retirement, The Boardroom, hosted by Dr. Timothy Purnell, is a monthly podcast series that highlights exemplary board governance and leadership.