Joe Marckini, Vice President of the Cedar Springs Public Schools board of education, was one of 16 Kent County school board members honored recently by the Michigan Association of School boards for the extra classes and training they take to be a better board member.

Marckini received awards for level one certification, an award of merit, award of distinction, and an advocacy skill specialty.

“School districts are facing exceptional challenges, and new opportunities challenge our thinking every day. In this environment, it’s more important than ever that our school leaders are informed and have the most up-to-date information available,” said MASB Executive Director Kathy Hayes. “Training equips them with the tools necessary to make the best decisions for the kids of our state.”

To achieve Level One and become “certified,” board members receive 30 hours of classroom training in subjects ranging from school law and finance to community relations. Higher levels of recognition require even more coursework, service and leadership responsibilities.

Marckini took the following training to earn the awards:

Certified Boardmember Award: Nine 100-level CBA classes
Award of Merit: Level 1 plus 45 education credits
Award of Distinction: Levels 1 and 2, four advanced level CBA classes and 208 education credits.
Advocacy Skills Specialty: Level 1 and six advanced level communications classes.