The Board

By Petra E. Barajas

School districts and county offices of education are governed by boards, not by individual trustees. While understanding their separate roles, the board and superintendent work together as a "governance team." This team assumes collective responsibility for building unity and creating a positive organizational culture in order to govern effectively.

• Keep the district focused on learning and achievement for all students.

• Communicate a common vision.

• Operate openly, with trust and integrity.

• Govern in a dignified and professional manner, treating everyone with civility and respect.

• Govern within board-adopted policies and procedures.

• Take collective responsibility for the board's performance.

• Periodically evaluate its own effectiveness.

• Ensure opportunities for the diverse range of views in the community to inform board deliberations.