California Legal Symposium

Cal-ISBOA is partnering with Liebert Cassidy Whitmore to bring you an important event in November, the "California Legal Symposium." We'll focus on legal issues facing independent schools with an emphasis on California. Program topics include:

• Employment Contracts
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
  
• Legal Eagle Townhall - LCW Attorneys will discuss current legal topics in California schools
  
• Legal Updates with Michael Blacher
  

Your registration includes access to the symposium for two people.

More program details below:

8:30 – 9:30am Employment Contracts with Brian Walter and Donna Williamson

This session will discuss the best practices in preparing employment contracts for different types of school employees, including a discussion of at-will contracts.  We will also discuss key provisions that are essential in creating enforceable employment agreements and which provisions may not be right for all schools.

9:45 – 10:45am How to Lawfully Promote Diversity, Equity and Inclusion on Campus with Grace Chan and Heather DeBlanc

The important work of promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in all aspects of campus life has taken on renewed meaning as students, parents, employees and alumni look to schools to do more to foster a sense of belonging for all community members.  From DEI activities, affinity groups, vendor utilization, supplier diversity, and scholarship programs, schools are looking at ways to celebrate diversity and foster inclusivity within their communities in proactive and innovative ways.  Since these activities are often built around protected characteristics, such as race, gender or sexual orientation, if such efforts are not structured properly, they may create legal risks, including claims of discrimination, breach of contract and bullying.  They may also create community relations risks, such as concerns about promoting divisiveness and negative morale in the community. This presentation provides constructive and hands-on approaches to structuring and promoting DEI in ways that have real impact in school communities while avoiding common landmines.

11:00am – 12:00pm Town Hall Legal Eagles with Michael Blacher, Brian Walter, Donna Williamson and Grace Chan 

Get your questions answered while learning how to deal with business, education and employment issues important to your school. Attendees will share their questions with others in the group who possibly have the same problems, concerns and issues. The questions asked will dictate where this interactive session will end up. Schools deal with a number of issues on a daily basis and it is best to be prepared. Take this opportunity to get some answers - without those pesky billable hours!

12:30 -1:30pm Legal Update with Michael Blacher

This presentation provides attendees with an opportunity to look back, and look ahead, at legal issues facing their schools.  Michael Blacher will cover nationwide court decisions, recently enacted California legislation, and other significant legal trends and developments.  Topics include wage and hour, labor relations, discrimination, arbitration agreements, negligence, interactive process, leaves, mandatory and suggested training, and many other topics.  This wide-ranging, interactive presentation will enhance your understanding of legal obligations and supply guidance on addressing these challenges proactively and effectively.

Each of the sessions above is eligible for SHRM and HRCI continuing education credit.