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What makes a good board member?

July 28, 2009

Many of the qualities that make board members great are acquired over time, through training and experience, so don’t discredit your potential worth as a board member, even though you may never have served in such a capacity.

As you consider running for the ESD , community college or school board, think about whether these characteristics of effective board members describe you:

• You hold a conviction that public education is important.
• You are committed to public involvement.
• You have the ability to make decisions.
• You believe in the democratic process.
• You’re willing to devote time and energy to your new position.
• You can accept the will of the majority.
• You have the courage to stand up for your convictions.
• You have respect for district employees.
• You communicate well with others.

These are some characteristics of ineffective board members:

• They become involved in school, ESD or community college administration.
• They allow personal feelings toward others to affect their judgment.
• They allow personal interests to transcend the best interests of the district.
• They neglect board duties.
• They can’t make decisions or take a stand.
• They represent special interests or a particular geographic area rather than the interests of the entire district.
• They adopt an arrogant or paternalistic attitude toward district employees or the public.

We encourage you to become actively involved with OSBA if you are elected to a school, ESD or community college board.