Key Functions of the Board
Acting on behalf of the people of each community, the school board will fulfill the following functions:
Responsible Governance:
The board, with participation by the community, will envision the future of the school district’s educational program and formulate goals, define outcomes and set the course for the school district. This will be done within the context of racial, ethnic and religious diversity and with a commitment to education excellence and equity for all students.
Creating Conditions for Student and Staff Success:
To achieve the vision, the board will establish a structure which reflects local circumstances and creates an environment designed to ensure all students the opportunity to attain their maximum potential through a sound organizational framework. This includes employing a superintendent, developing and approving policies, formulating budgets, setting high instructional and learning goals for staff and students, and nurturing a climate conducive to continuous improvement.
High Expectations for Student Learning:
The board will continuously articulate the belief that all students can learn and that each student’s learning can improve regardless of existing circumstances or resources. The board will act as leaders of a vision of shared learning that is supported by individual schools and the community.
Accountability for Student Learning:
The board’s accountability for student learning will include adopting a system of continuous assessment of all conditions affecting education, including assessments for measuring staff and student progress towards goals. The public will be kept informed about programs and progress. Staff and board training will be provided to ensure continuous improvement of student achievement.
Community Engagement:
The board will serve as education’s key advocate on behalf of students and their schools. The board will work to advance the community’s vision for its schools, pursue the district’s goals, encourage progress and energize systemic change and ensure that students are treated as whole persons in a diversified society.
Cross References:
Board Policy 0100 – Commitment to Strategic Planning
Board Policy 0300 – Planning Process
Board Policy 0700 – Strategic Plan Evaluation
Board Policy 1310 – Policy Adoption, Manuals and Administrative Procedures
Board Policy 1810 – Annual Governance Goals and Objectives
Board Policy 1820 – Board Self-Assessment
Management Resources:
Washington School Board Standards (Adopted June 27, 2009)
Policy News, February 2012 Model Policies Aligned with Washington School Board Standards
Date: 06/26/13