Becoming an effective school board member takes time. Many of the qualities that make great board members are acquired through experience and training.

 

Yet, as you consider running for the school board, think about your ability to meet these characteristics:

• The conviction that public education is important
• A commitment to public involvement
• The ability to make decisions
• Belief in the democratic process
• Willingness to devote time and energy to your new position
• Ability to accept the will of the majority
• Courage of your convictions
• Respect for district employees
• Ability to communicate well with others

Board members are ineffective when they:

• Become involved in school administration
• Allow personal feelings toward others to affect their judgment
• Allow personal interests to transcend the best interests of the district
• Neglect board duties
• Can’t make decisions and are unable to take firm stands
• Represent the interests of a special group or geographic area (zone) rather than the interests of the entire district
• Adopt an arrogant or paternalistic attitude toward district employees or the public