Rutherford County School Board Vice Chair Wayne Blair has earned Master School Board Member status from the Tennessee School Boards Association.

The Level V Boardsmanship Award is the highest level a board member can reach. Mr. Blair was one of only four school board members in Tennessee to earn the award this year.

“It’s one of those certifications that you dream about getting but you’re not sure if you are worthy or that you’ll ever reach that pinnacle,” Blair said. “Certainly this kind of recognition you don’t get on your own. You have so many partners in this system from the director of schools to other staff members and administrators. It really turns out to be a community award. I just get the privilege of having my name on it.”

TSBA offers a master school board member award to members who invest their time and effort into becoming more informed and more effective school board members. The award is given for participation in activities outside of local school board obligations.

Master board members must have earned 250 credits in the appropriate categories and submitted a portfolio that must have received at least a 25 out of 30 possible points from the award judges.

The portfolio criteria consists of sample policies, references from colleagues, self-evaluation, presentations, advocacy and a written essay.

“It’s certainly gratifying to continue to grow in knowledge and experience. It’s one of the most enjoyable I’ve had in my life to serve on the Board and to get to experience continuing education provided by TSBA,” Blair said.

Only one other Rutherford County School Board member — Chairman Terry Hodge — has earned the Master School Board Member status.