Board of Education: Board Projects

Invest in the future – serve on your local school board

August 25, 2008

It has alternately been described as “the most important volunteer job in this country” and “the
toughest job in American elected government.” It is the epitome of democracy in action. And it is
fundamental to the future of our communities, our state and our nation. “It” is the job of school
board member. And, with school board elections coming this fall, now is the time for civic-minded
citizens to consider stepping up to the challenge of this important public service.
Citizen school boards are at the heart of our public education system as each school district is
governed by a board of locally elected citizens who spend hundreds of hours a year making
decisions aimed at promoting higher levels of student achievement.

Even now, while students enjoy the summer holiday, school boards are working to address a
myriad of challenges in public education. Improving and assessing student learning, reducing the
performance gap for poor and minority students, providing for smaller class sizes, promoting
school safety – these are just some of the issues on the agendas of school boards around the state.
The local school board also serves as a vital link between the community and the classroom –
making policy, setting budgets and providing leadership and advocacy for public education. As
“governors” of the school district, school board members perform critical functions in four
major areas:
    · Vision - The board focuses the work of the district and community on student
    achievement through a comprehensive strategic planning process.
    · Structure - The board governs the district through prudent financial planning and
    oversight, and diligent and innovative policy making.
    · Accountability - The board infuses all programs and crucial policies with specific
    goals and a process for evaluation, reporting and recommendations for
    improvements.
    · Advocacy - The board champions public education in the local community and
    before state and federal policy makers.

Each school board member brings his or her own style of leadership to school board
service. While there is no “ideal” working style, there are certain basic characteristics that
contribute to successful school board service. Effective school board members have a
sincere interest in public education and are committed to ensuring a quality education for
the boys and girls in their communities. They are respected and involved in their
communities, and bring with them a broad base of knowledge and experience. And they
are willing to spend long hours working as a team with other board members to benefit the
school district and the community.

Public education is a promise to our children; a promise that they will be prepared for the
challenge of being responsible citizens of our society. Serving your community as a
school board member means making a commitment to the children and being a part of
honoring that promise. If you decide to run for your local school board, please know that
nominations for school board positions open July 9 and close Aug. 2, with the election date set
for September 11, 2007. Invest in the future – please consider serving on your local school board.

About Iowa's School Boards (PowerPoint)