GAINESVILLE, FL – The Florida School Boards Association (FSBA) is pleased to announce that its leadership team convened in Gainesville, Florida, on October 4 and October 5, 2023, for a two-day event.
This annual gathering of FSBA’s Board of Directors, committee chairs, and committee vice-chairs serves as a critical opportunity for the association’s leaders to come together, share insights, and chart a course for the future.
Thursday morning, Kim Barton, Supervisor of Elections for Alachua County, and Paul Lux, Supervisor of Elections for Okaloosa County discussed the impacts of the proposed constitutional amendment on partisan school board elections in Florida. Thursday afternoon featured a special workshop, Fierce Conversations: Managing Conflict with renowned and retired UF Soccer Coach, Becky Burleigh.
“Throughout the two-day gathering, we engaged in productive discussions, shared best practices, and explored innovative approaches to addressing the evolving needs of Florida’s students,” commented FSBA Chief Executive Officer, Andrea Messina. “FSBA looks forward to building upon the insights gained during this event and continuing to work collaboratively with local communities, policymakers, and stakeholders to improve student achievement for all students in Florida.”
Dr. William Allen, a Polk County School Board Member and Board of Director with FSBA, stated, “I’m humbled to serve here locally and also at the state level as a Board of Director with FSBA. We are committed to elevating education at the local level and in our great state”
The mission of FSBA is to increase student achievement through the development of effective school board leadership and advocacy for public education. Association members will convene in November for the 78th Annual Joint Conference in Tampa, Florida.
Background and Experience
With over 17 years of higher ed experience, Allen recognizes the collaborative nature of a school system that provides an intense focus on preparing students. As a faculty advisor, Allen understands the goal of mentoring students to be competent contributors to their community. Besides his educational experience, Allen is an award-winning documentarian and media researcher. He recently served as a grant reviewer with the National Science Foundation’s Interactive division.
Allen’s PhD work is in Digital Media from the University of Central Florida. He holds an MFA in Web Design and New Media from the Academy of Art University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication.
Values
As a Bartow native and Polk County resident, Allen has a deep-rooted zeal for the Polk education system. His vision is to help make Polk County Schools one of the greatest and strongest pillars of hope within the community.
According to Allen, “helping support parents as they seek access for what’s best for their child is my top priority. It’s all about empowerment.” He adds, “education is a societal pillar that can give hope. Stifling access smothers the flames of hope.”
About William Allen: Allen is a Bartow native and will celebrate 21 years of marriage to Jill Allen. They have two children in Polk County schools and one in her second year of college.
