I. The Role of the Superintendent
- Is the executive officer of the district
- Is the education advisor to the Board of Education
- Serves as the educational leader for the district
- Serves as a catalyst for the process of short and long range planning for the district including strategic planning
- Analyzes the needs of the district and shares these needs with the Board of Education
- Recommends policies to the Board of Education to consider enacting
- Recommends instructional programs and other school functions of the district
- Keeps the board members informed of “as needed” school operations
- Develops a working relationship with local and state leaders
- Works to communicate with the district’s community through public presentations, letters and/or newsletters
- Manages the upkeep of the school facilities and ensures a safe school environment
- Keeps up-to-date with current educational issues and works on personal professional growth
- Is honest and ethical at all times
- Follows the district chain of command
- Is a proactive educational leader in the district
II. Making The Most Of Board Meetings
- Share ideas in advance with the Superintendent that the Board wants included on the board agenda
- Superintendent should prepare an organized and easy way to follow agenda and packet of information
- Superintendent should special note any important or difficult action items with background and recommendations
- Board President and Superintendent should meet in advance of the meeting to discuss the agenda and packet
- Board President should keep the meeting moving allowing for any needed discussion but considering a reasonable allotted time
- Board should call the Superintendent in advance on any questions regarding payment of bills
- Follow the Open Meetings Act
- Allow for differences of opinions and positions
- No surprises for the Superintendent or Board Members
Prepared by: Zukowski Law Offices, © 2009
Note: These general suggestions are for general informational
purposes only and should not be regarded as a substitute for specific
legal advice to your organization. Instead, you should consult with
legal counsel whenever any question arises as to the organization’s
responsibilities.