As school board members, the questions we pose have the power to transform our educational system and improve student outcomes. At School Boards for Academic Excellence (SBAE), we believe that asking the right questions is crucial to identifying and addressing the hidden barriers that prevent our students from reaching their full potential. By delving deeper into critical areas like finance, staffing, literacy, and student safety, we can create a roadmap for meaningful change.

Finance: Understanding and Maximizing Resources

One of the most significant responsibilities of a school board is overseeing the district’s financial health. However, it’s not just about balancing the books; it’s about ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support every student’s needs. Start by asking:

• How much is spent per student, particularly those with special needs? Understanding per-student spending is essential, especially when considering the additional resources required for students with disabilities. This question can help uncover disparities and direct funds where they are most needed.
• Are our staff-to-student ratios sustainable compared to state averages? Staffing ratios directly impact the quality of education. High student-to-teacher ratios can lead to burnout among staff and hinder personalized instruction. Comparing these ratios to state averages can provide insight into whether adjustments are necessary.
• How effectively have ESSER III federal relief funds been utilized? The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds were provided to help schools navigate the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s vital to assess whether these funds have been used strategically to address learning loss and other critical needs.

Staffing: Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

The quality of education in any district depends heavily on the quality of its staff. High turnover rates and difficulties in recruiting can signal deeper issues within the district. 

Key questions include:

• What’s driving staff turnover? Are exit surveys revealing key issues? Understanding the reasons behind staff turnover is critical. Exit surveys can offer valuable insights into areas that need improvement, such as working conditions, compensation, and support for professional development.
• How competitive is our district in attracting and retaining top talent? Competition for skilled educators is fierce. Assessing how your district’s compensation packages, benefits, and work environment compare to neighboring districts can highlight areas where improvements are needed to attract and retain top talent.

Literacy: Focusing on Effective Reading Instruction

Literacy is the foundation of all learning, and ensuring that students are proficient readers by third grade is a key indicator of future academic success. Board members should ask:

• Are we fully committed to phonics-based instruction, or are outdated methods still in play? Phonics-based instruction has been shown to be one of the most effective methods for teaching reading. It’s important to evaluate whether your district’s reading curriculum is aligned with this approach or if outdated methods are still being used.
• How is the district supporting students who are falling behind in reading? Identifying struggling readers early and providing targeted interventions is crucial. Ask about the support systems in place, such as reading specialists and remedial programs, to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

Student Safety: Ensuring a Secure Learning Environment

A safe learning environment is fundamental to student success. School board members must prioritize student safety by asking:

• What are our current discipline policies, and how effectively are they being enforced? Discipline policies should be designed to maintain a safe and orderly environment while also being fair and equitable. Review these policies regularly and assess their effectiveness.
• How are we addressing the impact of smartphones on student behavior and learning? Smartphones can be both a tool and a distraction in the classroom. It’s important to have clear policies in place that balance the benefits of technology with the need to minimize distractions.

By asking these critical questions, school board members can lead the way in driving meaningful change and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed. For a comprehensive list of questions and guidance on navigating these discussions, reach out to us at info@sbaenetwork.org.