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February 03, 2009
Joining the PHS Board 2-3-2008
February 3, 2009
Dear PHS Community Members:
Each year at this time, the Presidio Hill School Board of Trustees begins the process of renewing its membership for the coming school year. The trustees committee of the board is charged with promoting membership and seeking out candidates whose skills and experience support the board’s current practices and future plans.
The trustees committee analyzes current board composition in conjunction with the board’s near- and long-term plans to identify areas of need within the board’s membership. The ideal board envisioned by the committee meets those needs while comprising a balanced blend reflective of the diversity of the school community.
The names of candidates to the board come from a variety of sources—teachers, administrators, current board members, and interested, involved parents who would like to be considered. Once candidates are identified, they are interviewed and may be asked if they are interested in serving on the board or joining one of its committees as a non-trustee member. Through this process, the trustees committee is able to identify candidates to recommend to the board and the community. Final candidates are submitted for nomination, and the community is notified in advance of the election at the spring corporation meeting.
If you know of someone who you believe has qualities that would be useful for the board, or if you yourself are interested in being considered for possible nomination, please contact any member of the trustees committee or any member of the board. Submission of a name does not guarantee nomination, but it is the essential first step. And of course, if you have any questions about the board or the nominating process, please feel free to contact any member of the trustees committee.
Respectfully,
Trustees Committee
Noel Kaufman, chair
Helle Rytkonen
Jennifer Franklin
Jill Chase
Manolo Santana
As stewards of the school, board members are legally entrusted with fiduciary responsibility, and have the duty to oversee the mission of the school, set strategic goals, and establish broad policies that support and enhance the mission.
General Attributes Highly Desirable In All Board Members
from the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)
A. Is a broad thinker: the ability to see the big picture; the ability to see connections and relationships; the ability to integrate the perspective of what best serves the school in the near term and in the long term into all discussions and decision-making.
B. Understands the history and mission of the school and is aware of the larger educational and institutional issues facing the school.
C. Exhibits collegiality/is a team player: the ability to discuss what at times may be tough issues in a candid yet friendly manner; the ability to "put the school's best foot forward" as an advocate in both internal and external relationships; the ability to maintain confidences.
D. Has a strong association with the school and broader bases as well: is willing to make the commitment to the school as a priority; can bring elements of life outside of the school community to the benefit of the community.
Desirable Characteristics of Board Members
1. Committed to the school’s mission and values
2. Knowledgeable about the school
3. Willing to assume responsibility; able to delegate (works to develop potential leaders)
4. Able to exercise authority; able to make decisions, especially within group decision making process
5. Updates governance knowledge and skills; knows and uses basic parliamentary procedures
6. Respectful of all voices; facilitates or contributes to constructive discussions in meetings
7. Focuses own energy and that of others on policy issues; able to maintain big picture view
8. Able to problem solve; sensitive to cliques and power struggles but disassociated from them
9. Skilled at long range strategic thinking
10. Effective oral and written communicator
11. Works well with the Director of the school
12. Interested in financial oversight
Practical Expectations for Board Participation
1. Attend monthly board meetings
2. Actively participate in at least one board committee with concomitant meetings
3. Attend board retreats (twice a year)
4. Make financial contributions within one’s ability, to insure full participation of Board in Annual Fund and other fundraising activities
5. Attend and be visible as board member at school functions, such as corporation meetings, May Fest, fundraising events, and so on
6. Participate in fundraising training and activities
7. Provide snacks for board meeting one time a year