Why Serve on a Local or State School Board
Service on a local or state school board can be a rewarding experience for those who are passionate about education and the community they serve. But why would someone choose to take on this role? There are several compelling reasons, ranging from personal motivations to a desire for broader political influence.
Main Reasons for Serving on a School Board
One key reason individuals serve on school boards is the opportunity for local influence. Being close to the institutions you are guiding means you can talk directly to those implementing the program and those who are experiencing it. This proximity enables you to make necessary adjustments and figure out what works and what doesn’t. For example, if a new educational policy is being implemented, you can directly engage with teachers and students to ensure it meets their needs.
Another reason is to enter politics. Many individuals see a seat on a school board as a stepping stone into higher political office. It provides a platform to engage with constituents, hone political skills, and gain valuable experience that can be beneficial for future endeavors in public service.
For those with personal investment in the school district, such as parents with children in the school system, serving on the board can be a way to directly influence policy and ensure that the educational environment is conducive to their children’s growth and development. This personal stake can drive individuals to seek a seat on the board to advocate and make necessary changes.
In some cases, individuals may take on the role with a more ulterior motive, such as to annoy others. While this may not be the most noble reason to serve on a board, it is a motivator for some who feel they have been ignored or mistreated in the past and have a desire to make a statement.
Personal Motivations and Experiences
My own experience on the Hartford, Connecticut Board of Education serves as a testament to the varied motivations that drive individuals to serve. Initially, the idea of being approached by the mayor to serve seemed surprising. However, I agreed to serve for several reasons.
I believe in service as a fundamental principle. Being a manager, financial analyst, pastor, and trainer, I had diverse skills that could be valuable to the board. Moreover, I had chaired two school governance councils and was familiar with the workings of the schools, ensuring that my experience was a strong asset.
Another crucial motivation was to impress upon my sons the importance of education. As a parent, I wanted to set a positive example and instill a strong appreciation for the educational system in my children. This personal stake highlights the impact that serving on a board can have beyond the immediate responsibilities.
Lastly, I saw it as important to have Latino representation in a district where 55 percent of the student body is Latino. My presence on the board would ensure that the perspectives and needs of the Latino community were well-represented and understood.
Conclusion
Whether driven by a desire for local influence, a stepping stone into politics, a personal connection to the school district, or a desire to make a statement, serving on a local or state school board can offer a rewarding journey. It provides a unique platform to shape the future of education and the communities it serves. By engaging in this role, you can contribute to creating a better future for the children and families in your community.