The 13th annual Academy gives principals up-to-the minute advice on legal issues that impact schools and districts. Whether in the midst of a legal crises or seeking to avoid one, the program will assist principals in dealing with issues they face.

A RISK YOU TAKE! – PERSONAL FINANCIAL LIABILITY FOR PERSONNEL DECISIONS
The decisions you make in disciplining or terminating an employee can result is personal liability and the district’s insurance carrier will likely not cover the award.  Recent trends involving the Missouri Human Rights Act will be discussed, along with pointers on how to minimize risks.  Effective practice ideas will also be shared.

HAVE THE RULES CHANGED? – STUDENT SPEECH AFTER THE U.S. SUPREME COURT DECISION IN “BONG HITS FOR JESUS”
Courts have blurred the lines on what types of speech can be regulated by school officials.  The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in the “Bong Hits For Jesus” case restores some clarity to those lines.  Join us to find out the parameters on permissible student speech, when students can be disciplined for their speech, and when the regulation may violate of students’ rights. 

SEXUAL OFFENDERS AND YOUR SCHOOLS!
Can sexual offenders be allowed on school property or at school functions?  When and under what circumstances?  What is the role of the building administrator in identifying offenders and regulating their access to school property and functions?  What are the associated liability risks?  Join us as we discuss these and other issues involving offenders who seek access to your schools.

THE IMPACT OF COLLECTIVE BARGAINING ON THE BUILDING ADMINISTRATOR
What is the role of the building administrator in the collective bargaining process?  Much is yet to be determined by the courts and the legislature.  Join us for an overview of the issues that building administrators will likely face as teachers seek to organize.

DEALING WITH EMPLOYEES:  A HOW TO GUIDE TO INJURIES, DISABILITIES AND WORKER’S COMPENSATION
What happens when an employee is injured or disabled on the job?  A review of the process and procedures that you will need to negotiate along with practical pointers on dealing with the employee and his/her attorney.

TOP 10 HOT LEGAL TOPICS AFFECTING BUILDING ADMINISTRATORS
Join us as we summarize the top legal issues that elementary and secondary principals must be prepared to address.

BRING YOUR QUESTIONS WITH YOU
Whether with the entire group or one-on-one during the breaks, we will endeavor to address the questions you bring to the academy.  We want this program to be helpful to you as you deal with the day-to-day issues that arise in your buildings.