MAA President's Message
June Message
I think we all agree that higher quality assessment administration happens when we have knowledgeable and skilled personnel. Quality education comes in many forms; classroom training, on the job training and good mentoring. We can learn from self-directed study, from a book or online, but it “sinks in” best when we are able to apply this learning to real life applications. In other words, we learn by doing.
We learn best from instructors who are the professionals in the field that have worked in an Assessment or in Equalization office. Who else can convey the experiences, the knowledge and the nuances of assessment administration that happens at the front desk, in the field, in the courtroom or before the local government body? The Michigan Assessors Association’s educational program offers you the opportunity to experience an exchange of ideas through classroom discussion, real-life experiences and examples and stories told by knowledgeable instructors.
We live in a time where a myriad of alternative and competitive forms of education such as online training and self-study programs, abound, and as an association, we face many challenges in our efforts to offer cost effective, quality education to our members. To that end, the Michigan Assessors Association’s will continue to offer educational opportunities on core appraisal principals and property tax law and provide the necessary tools that will enhance and ensure success and provide a path to excellence for all assessors. We believe there is no substitute for quality, interactive and hands on, classroom instruction and I encourage you to experience our courses and dynamic instructors to enhance your toolbox.
The Michigan Assessors Association Schools are being held July 29-August 2 in Grand Rapids and September 30-October 4 at Boyne Highlands Resort. Plan to attend as new courses are being developed to keep up with the profession’s ever-changing needs. And don’t forget the excellent educational opportunities available August 11th through the 14th at the MAA Annual Summer Conference at Crystal Mountain. The educational program will offer 16 hours of continuing education credits as well as excellent networking opportunities and great company with friends and colleagues and will provide each of us the opportunity to further our professional development.
I hope to see you there,
Paula Jastifer President