My Turn | 'It is through community building that we can create a more inclusive and responsive educational system in Unit 4'

Apr. 23—As a member of the school board, I am compelled to share my thoughts on the crucial role that our board plays in the community and the values that guide my service.

The Illinois Association of School Boards enumerates 21 different duties of school board members which are part of Unit 4 board policies. The board clarifies the district's purpose and vision, setting goals and monitoring progress toward achieving those goals.

The board also ensures that the superintendent's performance aligns with the district's objectives through the evaluation process.

Another essential aspect is financial oversight, as the board sets the budget and must ensure fiscal responsibility. Less well-known but equally significant, the board has the authority to make final decisions regarding student expulsions and the termination of district staff.

However, the most integral role of the BOE is "to adopt, enforce and monitor all policies for the management and governance of the district's schools." Policies and procedures are the backbone of all organizations, from government entities to for-profit corporations. They provide a roadmap for day-to-day operation and ensure compliance with laws and regulations as well as streamline internal processes.

Through the creation of policy, the school board plays a pivotal role in creating the infrastructure for the entire school community. Policies and procedures keep operations from devolving into complete chaos and prevent ethical fading within the district, which we are currently experiencing in Unit 4.

In carrying out their 20-plus duties, it is crucial that the board actively seek out community input. This approach is fundamental to building trust and upholding democracy within our educational system.

Just as any form of government values the voices of its citizens, the school board must value and respect the perspectives and insights of parents, students, staff and other stakeholders.

Every board member brings a unique skill set to the district. A unified delegation of the board duties based on individual skill sets make for a healthy board.

Drawing from my experience as a personal injury attorney and having helped build not-for-profit corporations, I bring a perspective to the school board that centers on policy evaluation, ethical and legal compliance concerns and general risk management. That is where I am directing my focus.

In terms of what our district is lacking and needs, a critical area that requires immediate attention is creating formalized and adopted internal policies and procedures. It is essential that we do not rely on guesswork but rather have clear and concise policies both within the board and across the district.

Our district's board attorneys should identify and remedy gaps in our policy, by collaborating with different departments to create these governing documents.

For instance, when it comes to filling an open board seat, we should have written policies and procedures outlining the selection process for new members. Similarly, our human resources department should have robust policies in place addressing issues such as nepotism to ensure fairness and transparency in hiring, promotions and terminations.

By establishing and adhering to well-defined policies and procedures, we can enhance accountability, promote equity and strengthen the overall effectiveness of our educational governance.

Finally, community engagement is at the heart of my approach to governance. School board members are not beholden to special interests or individuals, but rather to the collective welfare of our entire community. Building bridges, listening to diverse voices and prioritizing the needs of students, families and staff are paramount to the success of the district.

We cannot fix the systemic problems within the district without full transparency, accountability and community-wide collaboration.

A school board should be filled by individuals who bring diverse perspectives, skill sets and experiences to the table, seeing this opportunity as a privilege to serve and engage with and strengthen our community.

New members should welcome community members as invaluable input, not as a hindrance. It is through community building that we can create a more inclusive and responsive educational system in Unit 4.

Board members should be willing to ask hard questions, identify problems, request and analyze data, challenge unethical actions and avoid rubber stamping. It is true that the board does not run the day-to-day operations, but the board needs a strong grasp on what is going on day to day in order to make informed decisions and create policy.

Members should also be willing to respect and collaborate with fellow board members, utilizing everyone's individual strengths through thoughtful discussion and collaboration. New board members should not view this input as an impediment, but as a privilege to serve.

Most importantly, be accessible and willing to listen to all of the voices working within the district at every level before making decisions.