BOE 08-09 Self-Evaluation: Policy

continued...

This is a continuation of my previous post on our Board self-evaluation, which was discussed at the 7/20 Board meeting (click here for webcast).

Reminder: Board members (and administrators) rated each statement on a scale of 1-4:
1 = Unsatisfactory.
2 = Adequate
3 = Good
4 = Commendable
("Not Observed" was also an option)

Each section has two subsections: "About the Board" and "About You, the Board Member." (Only Board members rated the statements in the second subsection.)

I will share the average scores for each statement about the Board and about Board members, and then for the individual self evaluation, I'll also tell you the score I gave myself (in parentheses).

So here we go. Tonight let's look at...

Section 2: Policy:

Our Board:
1. operates as a "policy-making body." 3 (2)
2. develops broad policies that give the administration sufficient authority and latitude to manage the day-to-day operations. 3.3 (2)
3. uses written policies as the framework for our decision-making process. 3.4 (3)
4. reviews and updates the policy manual regularly as required by NJQSAC insuring that our bylaws, policies and procedures reflect current regulatory, and statutory requirements. 3 (2)
5. ensures that the administration develops appropriate procedures and regulations to implement the board's policy intent. 3.2 (2)

As a board member, I:
A. am familiar with the Board's policies. 2.6 (2)
B. use Board policy as a basis for decision-making. 3 (3)
C. leave policy implementation to the administrative staff. 3 (3)
D. avoid involvement in day-to-day operations of the district. 3 (2)

As you may know, school boards are supposed to be concerned primarily with policy. Our Board of Ed hired a firm, Strauss Esmay, to review, revise and update our entire policy manual. We will be reviewing the result of their work sometime in the next few months.

My next Board Self-Evaluation post will cover Student Achievement.