Nine out of every 10 students in the United States attend public schools. Therefore, access to high-quality public education is crucial not only for our children’s success, but for the strength of our society. It takes a team of dedicated people – teachers, administrators, staff, parents and other community members – to provide that education. The nine members of your local school board are a key part of this team, making informed decisions that shape our public schools.
January is designated School Director Recognition Month – a time for us to celebrate and recognize the challenging and vital work boards do on behalf of our students, schools and families. On average, school directors devote up to 10 hours per month to the complex responsibilities of board business, including adopting policy, voting on budgets, evaluating school security issues and reviewing hiring decisions. Board service is an unpaid position, and the majority of school directors cite their desire to give back or contribute to public education as the main motivation for their service.
As locally elected officials, school directors are invested in their communities. They are our neighbors, friends, local leaders, parents and engaged citizens.During this month designated for recognizing these public servants, please take a moment to express your gratitude for school directors’ time and efforts year-round on behalf of our communities. The job they do ensures our schools continue to provide opportunities for success for every student. Thank them for advocating on behalf of our collective interest and for the benefit of our children.