1. Helpful Information for School Board Candidates Getting acquainted with the “job description” of school board member Iowa Association of School Boards

2. Beginning at the Beginning: Our Mission Statement. Our district mission statement: the “North Star” for board decision-making Our mission/purpose is to educate all children

3. Basic District Facts District Population o Total district community population o Student population/enrollment District boundaries Staffing Facilities

4. Key Financial Facts State Foundation Formula Funds used by district Funding sources Expenditures Unspent Balance Financial Solvency Ratio Summary of key factors impacting district budget

5. Board Meetings Logistics Attendance Agenda Preparation

6. Board Meetings Public view Sample agenda Standing committees

7. Effective Board/Superintendent Teams Focus on educational leadership Help the system work and improve Hold the system accountable Engaging the public Example of learning

8. Effective School Board Member Characteristics* Open-minded Prepared Willing to give time to learning Committed to listening and learning Willing to work as part of a team (no Lone Rangers) * As stated by practicing board members and superintendents

9. Thank you for considering school board membership. Any questions?