Communications Academy II: Session 1

MASA is pleased to offer Communications Academy II, a three-session professional learning series designed for school district leaders seeking to strengthen their communication strategies during challenging and high-stakes moments.

Building on the foundation of the original Communications Academy, this second cohort dives deeper into budget communications, crisis response, and facilitating courageous conversations, equipping leaders with practical tools, templates, and real-world strategies they can immediately apply in their districts.

Who Should Attend

• Superintendents

• Assistant Superintendents

• Central Office Leaders

• School District Leaders involved in communications, finance, or crisis response

Session Schedule

Session 1

Friday, January 16, 2026 | 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Budget Planning Communications

Learn how to communicate financial realities with clarity, transparency, and confidence, particularly during budget planning and community engagement.

📍 Held at Quora Education Center following MSBA’s Winter Conference
🍴 Box lunch provided

Session 2

Friday, February 20, 2026 | 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Crisis Communications & Case Studies

Analyze real-world crisis communication case studies and develop templates, checklists, and messaging frameworks to support your district when challenges arise.

💻 This session is held virtually

Session 3

Friday, March 20, 2026 | 12:30–3:30 p.m.
Facilitating Courageous Conversations in Challenging Times

Gain strategies for leading difficult, high-emotion conversations, especially when differing or charged viewpoints are at play.

📍 Held at Minneapolis Marriott NW following MASA’s Spring Conference
🍴 Box lunch provided

Registration & Cost

• $350 for MASA Members and $400 for Non-Members

• Registration includes all three sessions

• Space may be limited

Partnership

This academy is offered in partnership with the Donovan Group, leaders in school communications and public engagement.