Managing Business Expectations

Posted on: 31 August 2021

Would you love to serve your community? Do you have a passion for improving education outcomes and enhancing student's achievements? These are some of the motivations for becoming a school board member. However, if you plan to become a board member, it is essential to understand the roles and qualifications. This post provides vital insights into becoming a school board member. 

What Is a School Board Member? 

Each public district school is under the governance of a board of management. The board represents the community and safeguards the interest of the students within the district. Typically, board members are elected individuals who make strategic decisions about the local public school system. 

The following are three primary roles of a school board: 

Set the Vision and Mission

The school board creates the strategic vision and mission of the school. In this case, the vision serves as the long-term aspiration for why the school exists and hopes to achieve. In comparison, the mission provides the strategies for achieving the vision. In establishing the vision and mission, the board integrates the needs and desires of the school stakeholders. 

Create Policies 

The school board develops school policies. In this case, the policies act as the guiding framework that governs the relationship between the school's external and internal stakeholders. More so, the policies regulate the actions and behaviors of the school administrators and staff. Such policies include human resources, conflict of interest, and financial and quality assurance policies. Thus, the board members develop, oversee, and review the school policies. 

Resource Management and Oversight 

The school board plays an integral role in ensuring the sound management of school resources. For starters, the board helps in developing the school budget as part of financial management. In particular, the board ensures that the budget considers the school's short-term and long-term vision, goals, and objectives. More so, the board supports the school administration to raise the funding and oversee its implementation. Then, the board ensures there is proper management and utilization of the school's physical resources. Lastly, the board hires and evaluates the superintendents. 

What Are the Qualifications of a School Board Director? 

A qualified school board candidate must meet the following requirements: 

• Be a citizen of the U.S.A
• A resident of the state district 
• Be at least 18 years of age 
• A registered voter
• Should not be a school trustee 

In addition to the above qualifications, a school board member cannot be employed by or have any business interest with the school district. More so, one should not be a sex offender. If one meets these qualifications, they can file a statement of economic interest and obtain and complete a nominating petition with at least fifty signatures from registered voters. Then upon election, one completes a certificate of election outlining the rights and privileges of the position. Finally, the board members usually take an oath of office. 

Ultimately, the opportunity to serve your community as a school board member is a great honor. However, to be a qualified school board candidate, you must meet the set criteria. 

Contact someone like William Keyes to learn more.