Communication Governing Board Online Training Module

Guidelines for all Communication Using “one voice” Support and uphold decisions Regardless of personal opinion Transparency In decision-making In reports In announcements

Guidelines for all Communication (cont.) The importance of “the board room” Properly publically noticed meeting Gathered with a quorum Consent of the full governing board “Parent hat” vs. “board hat” Set aside parental convictions First priority is the school

Written Communication Documentation of school framework Vision and mission statements The strategic plan Board policy and resolutions Documentation of governing board decisions Board meeting agendas and minutes Newsletter updates School promotion Marketing material Press releases Reporting

Verbal Communication Regularly scheduled meetings Annual meetings “Town Hall” meetings Back-to-school night Parent information meetings

With whom must the board communicate? The chartering entity (authorizer) The administrator The media Staff and faculty Parents Students The larger community

Communication with the chartering entity Meet regular reporting requirements Engage in school performance review Provide notification of changes Provide notification when there are accomplishments Provide notification of potential problems

Communication with the Administrator Ongoing with the board president Speak with “one voice” Provide two-way conversation and feedback Respect the administrator’s privacy Provide a written annual review Use a written reprimand, if necessary

Communication with the Media Proactively prepare press releases Provide comprehensive answers Support the administrator’s role Designate a representative

Communication with Staff Speak through the administrator Acknowledge accomplishments Schedule governing board visit days Send a substitute to parent-teacher conferences

Communication with Parents Stop inappropriate conversations Use written communication tools Respond appropriately to phone calls and s Refrain from gossip and negative rhetoric

Communication with Students Schedule student presentations and celebrations at governing board meetings Accept student feedback Participate in graduation or continuation ceremonies

In summary Open, honest, and transparent communication Speak with “one voice” Recognize the authority of the full governing board Documentation of the school framework, progress reporting, and documentation of decisions Address multiple audiences with appropriate communication tools