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MSU Extension New Commissioner School

Teaches county commissioner roles and responsibilities and the structure of county government; Explore the basics of county finance; Learn best practices for leading and participating in public meetings; Network with other elected officials.

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MSU Extension provides educational opportunities for both new and veteran commissioners to strengthen their knowledge and skills to serve their community.

To help new county commissioners achieve success we encourage you to attend the New Commissioner School, designed to help them learn about the challenges and responsibilities of this new role.

For more than 50 years, Michigan State University Extension and Michigan Association of Counties have offered this workshop series and other educational opportunities for new and returning commissioners, administrators and county officials.

Participants in the New Commissioner School:

  • Explore the complexity of governance in today’s world.
  • Learn more about their roles and responsibilities.
  • Gain an initial understanding of county finance.
  • Learn the questions to ask when making decisions on policy issues.
  • Network with other commissioners.

For 2024 program information and dates, click the button below: 

Click here for more information on New Commissioner School 2024

For other programs related to county government, click the Events button above. 

  • New online program available: Foundations of Effective County Administration

    Published on October 9, 2024
    This new, self-paced online program builds knowledge, skills, and capacity of new and aspiring county administrative officials to navigate the complexities of county governance with confidence.

  • Registration and online course content is now available for the 2024 New Commissioner School

    Published on September 17, 2024
    New Commissioner School prepares new and veteran county leaders for their role in county government.

  • Registration now open for Governing Essentials webinar series

    Published on January 26, 2024
    The Governing Essentials Series is designed for local elected and appointed officials looking to sharpen their skills and promote good governance practices.

  • New Commissioner School 2022

    Published on August 31, 2022
    New Hybrid format available. Flexible self-paced learning and in-person discussion.

  • New Commissioner School 2020

    Published on October 7, 2020
    Same great content, new, COVID-19 safe, virtual format.

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Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

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MSU Extension New Commissioner School

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