As we enter January and the calendar rolls to a new year, new faces are being appointed to lead school boards across Kansas. January also happens to be School Board Recognition Month. Current and new members should use this time to reflect on the past and refocus on the district’s goals for the future. A lot of the work that school boards do goes unnoticed, but the decisions made every day are crucial to keeping the school system running smoothly. 

Board members make a significant personal investment when they take on these positions. They must become a jack of all trades to face the magnitude of vastly different issues that may come up in a school year. Student and district success goals drive each decision a school board makes. All seven individuals must bring their experiences, beliefs, and values to address conversations around wide-ranging topics to keep the district moving in a positive direction. 

Public education is a pillar of democracy. Board members are tasked with upholding this system and finding common ground for their whole district. Public education is for all the public and each decision made by the school board must reflect that.  

Great things happen in boards that can stay focused on the most critical aspects of public education. Now is a great time to discuss district-wide goals and priorities, why these are important, and the progress on these goals and priorities. The following should be the main priorities for all school districts: 

• Who are our students, and what are their current needs and future aspirations?  
• How do we support and prepare our staff to meet our students’ educational needs?  
• How do we connect and engage with our community?  
• What does our academic program include? 

The answers to these questions will be as diverse as all the districts in Kansas. There is no one-size-fits-all model for success in education, but school boards should keep these main questions at the center of all decisions.  

KASB has many resources, events and staff that can help you with any problems you may be having. Call the KASB office or visit our website at KASB.org for any information you may need. 

Thank you to former, current and new board members. Thank you for serving and advocating for the benefit of the students and your community. Embrace the challenges ahead and continue to work together to ensure student success in your district.