Acting on behalf of the people of each community, the school board will fulfill the following functions:
Vision: The board, with participation by the community, shall 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.
Structure: 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.
Accountability: The board's accountability to the community 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.
Advocacy: The board shall serve as education's key advocate on behalf of students and their schools. The board shall 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 1310 Policy Adoption, Manuals and Administrative
Board Policy 1810 Annual Goals and Objectives
Board Policy 1821 Inservice Conferences for Board Members
Management Resource:
Washington School Board Standards (Adopted June 27, 2009)
Policy News, February 2012 Model Policies Aligned with Washington School Board Standards
Adoption Date: March 10, 1999
Classification: Priority