Partnerships Imperative for Successful School Governance
November 15 marks the official statewide observance of School Board Members Day in Illinois. Each year, this day is an opportunity to show support for your board of education and the individual school board members who are committed to providing a local voice for your educational decisions.
It is a time to acknowledge the board’s role in creating educational opportunities that meet the goals set forth by the community for their children. These goals are measured by providing a quality education and a pathway to a successful future for each and every student. It’s also an opportunity to acknowledge that it takes partnerships and communities working together toward these common goals to ensure they are achieved.
School Board Members Day is an occasion to recognize board members who serve as unpaid volunteers for the benefit of the students and the community. They act as the front-line education advocates providing a local voice and vision for the district by putting in place the educational priorities of area residents.
But board members are only one piece of a partnership that works in tandem with the district administration, parents, community leaders, teachers, students, and other public education advocates to create quality learning opportunities for each and every student. This partnership ensures that every child has the resources to be successful and achieve their dreams.
We are grateful to have such a distinguished School Board in Community High School District #117. Our Board was honored last year by the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB)’s School Board Governance Recognition program for their understanding of and commitment to IASB’s Foundational Principles of Effective Governance. Our district has benefited from the diverse experience, expertise, and prior public service each member brings to our governance team. The next time you meet one of our seven School Board Members in the community, please take the time to thank them for serving in this important governance role to bring more opportunities to our students.
School Boards represent one of the most direct ways community members can lead, support, and be stewards of the tremendous assets public schools provide. Our community has benefitted from the clear and consistent leadership and support our Board has provided us as we seek to fulfill our mission to Ignite Passion and Discovery in Every Student. We extend our thanks to these dedicated community leaders and encourage you to join us in sharing your appreciation during this season of gratitude!