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Revised (Nov 25 2008)
The role of staff in policy-making
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Questions to consider:
- What policies already exist with regard to this matter? Is a new policy required?
- What is the board’s mandate? Before investing resources and time in policy development, the board should refer to the School Act and ensure that it is within its jurisdiction. District staff can provide advice on this matter.
- Is the issue controversial or complex? Issues on which there are strong and divergent views are prime candidates for board policy. Boards of education have a responsibility to reflect community values and provide direction on action that is appropriate.
- Is the matter of public concern and consequence? Policy development involves considerable time and effort and should be reserved for significant issues.
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Staff is responsible for:
- conducting research
- providing advice
- planning community engagement programs
- administration
- drafting policies
- implementation
Most boards have accumulated a whole range of policies already. It is important that board members consult existing policies before initiating new ones or making major policy-related decisions. It is also appropriate to review existing policies from time to time to see if they need amendment due to changing circumstances. So, before developing new policies, the board should consider:
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The role of the board in policy making
