Ineffective board governance is often the byproduct of what has been called “school board dysfunction,” the situation in which board members lacking in organization, leadership, and an understanding of their role diminish a board’s capacity for sound decision-making and solid educational leadership. The inherent difference between managing a campaign for the school board and leading a school system is one of the critical drivers of dysfunctional school boards. Stakeholders soon lose confidence and trust in the board’s actions, the public, formally and informally.
All students suffer when politics becomes a priority.
School boards become the target of voters not because of poor platforms, insufficient creativity, or lack of effort but because of naiveté and unprofessional conduct. Sharing confidentiality out in the open leads to this unprofessional conduct. Our local, state, and national conversation on education should include more discussion of effective school boards and system leadership, not just increasing test scores, getting students ready for real work, and being globally competitive.
When choosing their local school boards, voters should consider behavior in addition to statistics.
Ending Dysfunctional School Boards
Sometimes, the only way to fix a toxic relationship is to end it. Dysfunctional school boards can mean years of stalled progress on improving schools. Allowing the campaign mentality to tarnish relationships at a cost to students, teachers, and parents is never good governance. This is the fault in our school boards. Community groups can replace emerging leaders and recruit young professionals to these open board positions.
Most of the time, the person should just step away from the board role if they have become the information leak, the untrusted one with an agenda, or the unprofessional board member.
Hiring a school board consultant like me will help your school board function at the highest level. Together, we will build long-term benefits to fit the specific needs of the public school district.
Becoming An Effective School Board Leader
Never Go Alone
Teams can and do work together to achieve more. I have been on great sports teams in my lifetime. All these experiences accomplished more than if I went alone. Not just wins and losses but life lessons, choice, sportsmanship (citizenship), and celebrating the processes to get there.
Know The Difference Between Board Work and The Staff
Generally speaking, the school board hires and fires, sets the annual budget (understands long-term capital plans and debt relief funding for the school corporation), and follows state and federal laws and board policies and procedures. Thus, it is vital to hire a competent leader with an executive team to assist in the school systems’ complex challenges. I believe good teachers centered in meeting the student’s needs is the must. Again, hire great teachers and staff and get out of their way to allow them to practice their craft, providing excellent professional development.
Listen to Others and Always Share Your Views
All elected or appointed members have a voice. Working towards solutions or actions can be accomplished by a team approach of gathering opinions and facts and following an approved process. This process should be reviewed and followed as a part of the oath.
Remain On Top Of Your Responsibilities
Stay on top of your board packet and the required reading. Understand your influence to benefit all children. This may sometimes be a full-time commitment, but this is what Public Service is. You must commit and find the time needed for the job description. Use your intelligence, background, and experience to benefit the school district.
Respect & Stay In Your Lane
Know your oath and board member job description, and stay in your lane. You must commit to continuous learning in the role as a board member. Work to obtain the certifications provided by your state school board association.
Student Perspective on U.S. Schools from May 2024
Read the insights from the Gallup poll: Student Perspective on U.S. Schools from May 2024. This report provides valuable data directly from students about their educational experiences and challenges. Dive into the findings to better understand the current state of U.S. schools from a student’s viewpoint.
Again, let’s work together to help your school board function at the highest level, as that will have long-term benefits to fit the specific needs of the public school district.
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