Note from the Commission Chair
Vol 2, Issue 6
May 2, 2019
Dear Colleagues,

What a month April has been!  Because April is designated as the  Month of the Military Child , it holds a special meaning for us.  The numerous  Purple Up!  photos, events, and executive proclamations highlight your salute to military children.  My congratulations to all – it was definitely a month to remember.  

The Executive Committee (EXCOM) met in Lexington, Kentucky on April 17-18.  The first day addressed Commission business.  We revised the Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest policies, discussed a basic framework for the relationship between our ex-officio organizations and the Commission, defined terms, clarified the Commissioner appointment process and approved a checklist of Commissioner duties and responsibilities.  In addition, we adopted a  Promulgation of Rules Guide and discussed a mentoring program for newly appointed Commissioners.  I’m very proud of the leadership team and National Office for their commitment to address important issues and continually strive for excellence.

The next day we developed the Commission’s second 3-year strategic plan, facilitated by external consultant Brian Riggs of the Dialogue Shop.  Informed by feedback from surveys, standing committee meetings, and personal conversations, we identified three overarching goals supported by strategies. The plan will be formally adopted by the EXCOM (ref. Bylaws, Art VII, Section 1 ) at our meeting on May 16.  

The next step in the process is developing tactics (ideas) to support our strategies. This summer, a survey will be released which will allow Commissioners to submit feedback on behalf of their member state. The EXCOM will review the tactics/ideas and assign them to the appropriate standing committee. Then at the Annual Business Meeting in October, standing committees will finalize their assigned tactics/ideas. Once completed, we will implement the Commission’s second strategic plan.

A recent photograph of the R. J. Corman Bridge in Clarksville, Tennessee, submitted by Commissioner Deanna McLaughlin, appropriately highlights our work “bridging the gap” for military-connected students as they transition into our schools. Thank you for your support for military-connected students – you are making a difference!

Respectfully,

John I. “Don” Kaminar
Chairman (AR)