Associate Principals Legal Seminar 

12:00pm-4:30pm

12:00pm-1:15pm General Session

   Legal Update and Q&A: Hot Topics for School Principals
      Malina Piontek, Piontek Law and Kara Conley, WASB 

In this engaging and practical session, attorneys Malina Piontek and Kara Conley will break down the latest "hot topics" affecting Wisconsin public schools, including key agency guidance, regulatory developments, and noteworthy court decisions. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of their legal responsibilities and strategies for navigating complex challenges in school administration. This session will also include dedicated time for any legal questions you have related to your daily work in public schools. Bring your questions! Malina and Kara will be prepared to tackle whatever question you throw their way!

1:15pm-1:45pm General Session

Fund WI Public Schools: The Lawsuit That Could Change Everything

Julie Underwood, Dean Emerita UW Madison School of Education, Jeff Mandell, General Counsel, Law Forward and Rachel Snyder, Attorney, Law Forward

Wisconsin PTA is the named plaintiff in a landmark lawsuit filed in February 2026 by Law Forward and WEAC against the Wisconsin State Legislature. The lawsuit alleges that the Legislature is failing its constitutional obligation to adequately fund public schools — and that years of underfunding have shifted the burden of paying for public education onto local taxpayers.  Come learn about the lawsuit and its implications for Wisconsin education.

2:00pm-3:15pm General Session

Suspensions, Expulsions, and Special Education

Tess O'Brien-Heinzen, Attorney, Renning, Lewis & Lacy

The procedural requirements for suspensions and expulsions can be tricky—especially for students in special education. Join Tess O’Brien for a practical overview of key suspension and expulsion requirements for all students. As an added bonus, Tess will share her current top 10 list of things administrators need to know now about students with disabilities.  Attendees should come ready to learn and participate!

3:20pm-4:30pm General Session

Won't Somebody Please Think of the Children?

Brian Goodman, Attorney, Boardman & Clark

Join attorney Brian Goodman for an interactive session covering the most pressing legal issues involving students. Attendees will navigate issues integrating the new boundary invasion, grooming, and mandatory reporting laws.  In addition, the session will provide practical insight for navigating LGBTQ+ student issues including staff and student use of chosen pronouns plus bathroom and locker room use. At the same time, administrators need to monitor for bullying and harassment against LGBTQ+ students need to be addressed. The goal is to comply with all legal requirements while respecting the dignity of students.