As an Executive Assistant myself, I'm constantly amazed by the incredible work EAs are doing across California. EAs are no longer just handling calendars and answering phones; they are becoming strategic partners, making things run more smoothly, helping leaders connect, and keeping everything on track. You see it everywhere, especially in education and public service, where we've built an amazing community thanks to all the training and networking opportunities available.

A key factor in the elevation of the EA role in California has been the collaborative efforts of numerous organizations dedicated to providing training and resources specific to the Executive Assistant role. The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) offers academies tailored for confidential employees and classified managers, including EAs, focusing on leadership and management fundamentals. They even recently hosted a workshop specifically on the Role of the Executive Assistant. And get this – the California School Boards Association (CSBA) offers an Executive Assistant Certification Program! It's specifically designed for EAs who support superintendents and school boards, equipping us with essential skills in governance, communication, and job mechanics, including understanding critical elements such as the Brown Act and board policies. They also utilize the input of their Executive Assistant Advisory Committee, which is a valuable asset when planning their curriculum and training for EAs.

Our partnerships with various organizations are continuously enhancing the training and support available to EAs. Take, for example, the California School Public Relations Association (CalSPRA). They continually expand their efforts to provide a diverse set of strategies for communications assistance, including initiatives that help EAs and other administrative staff understand and contribute to effective school communication strategies. This fosters a more cohesive and impactful message delivery across districts. And then there's the Small School Districts' Association (SSDA) and the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO). They also contribute a ton, offering valuable opportunities for professional development and networking. This collaborative landscape means EAs have access to a wide variety of training to keep our skills sharp.

However, if there's one thing that really stands out when it comes to community, it's the CA Administrative Assistant Listserv, which serves Executive Assistants to Superintendents/Boards and Administrative Assistants to the Executive Cabinet level. This listserv is gold! This invaluable platform, founded by an Executive Assistant who recognized the need for a dedicated space for California's school district administrative professionals, is now managed by a team of EAs (it takes a village!). This platform serves as a vital hub for communication, knowledge sharing, and peer-to-peer support across the entire state.

The beauty of the Listserv is that it's truly run by EAs, for EAs. Everyone on there actively participates in discussions, asks questions, shares best practices, and offers solutions to a wide range of challenges – from navigating complex board agendas and handling sensitive information to mastering time management and problem-solving. This network empowers us to continually learn from one another, build strong connections, and consistently raise the bar for our entire profession.

The impact of all these collaborations and our Listserv is huge. EAs aren't just checking off tasks; we're actually anticipating needs, making processes smoother, and acting as crucial links for information and decision-making. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and supporting one another, EAs in California are accomplishing some truly remarkable things. It just goes to show how powerful a well-supported and connected professional community can be!