As a school board member, have you ever considered the immense power you hold to influence the direction of your district? At School Boards for Academic Excellence (SBAE), we believe that reclaiming control of your school board starts with asking the right questions. By challenging existing policies, seeking transparency, and demanding accountability, you can drive significant change that benefits students, educators, and the community at large.

Board Policies: Ensuring Transparency and Accountability

The foundation of an effective school board lies in its policies. These policies should be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect best practices and ensure that they align with the district’s goals. Start by asking:

• How often are our policies reviewed and updated to reflect best practices? Policies that are outdated or no longer effective can hinder progress. Regular reviews are necessary to ensure that policies are aligned with current educational standards and practices.
• Are there clear policies in place for communication between the board and the superintendent? Effective communication between the board and the superintendent is essential for a well-functioning school district. Clear policies should outline the expectations for communication, including how often it occurs and what topics are discussed.

Staffing and Finance: Building a Strong Foundation

Understanding the financial and staffing structure of your district is crucial for making informed decisions. These areas directly impact the district’s ability to provide a high-quality education. Key questions include:

• How well do we understand our district’s funding structure and staffing ratios? A deep understanding of the district’s funding sources and how those funds are allocated is essential for effective decision-making. Additionally, understanding staffing ratios can help identify areas where additional resources may be needed.
• What training is provided to board members on financial management? School board members are often tasked with making complex financial decisions. It’s important that they receive adequate training on financial management, including budgeting, funding sources, and financial reporting.

Literacy: Prioritizing Reading Success

Literacy is a critical area where school board members can make a significant impact. Ensuring that the district’s reading curriculum is effective and evidence-based is essential. Consider asking:

• Are we prioritizing phonics-based instruction in our reading curriculum? Phonics-based instruction is widely recognized as one of the most effective methods for teaching reading. It’s important to ensure that this approach is a central component of the district’s reading curriculum.
• How is our district supporting students struggling with literacy? Early intervention is key to helping students who are struggling with reading. Ask about the support systems in place, such as literacy specialists, tutoring programs, and parent engagement initiatives.

Student Safety: Creating a Secure Environment

A secure and supportive environment is essential for student learning. School board members should prioritize student safety by asking:

• What are our current discipline policies, and how effectively are they being enforced? Discipline policies should be fair, consistent, and designed to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment. Regularly review these policies to ensure they are being enforced effectively.
• How are we addressing the impact of smartphones on student behavior and learning? The presence of smartphones in schools can be both beneficial and disruptive. Clear policies should be in place to manage their use and minimize distractions while allowing for their educational potential to be harnessed.

By asking these critical questions, you can take control of your school board’s agenda and drive meaningful change in your district. Your leadership is essential in creating a transparent, accountable, and effective school board that prioritizes the success of all students. For more information and guidance on how to address these issues, please contact us at info@sbaenetwork.org.