In districts and county offices of education across California, student board members are assuming increasingly pivotal roles in governance, serving as vital conduits between the student body and the decision-making process. To ensure these representatives effectively fulfill their duties, it is essential that they receive comprehensive training and support from the outset.
Upon selection, student board members should be promptly oriented to the governance process. This can be achieved through meetings with the superintendent or board president, where they can gain insight into the board’s functions, the governance team relationship and how they can contribute to the decision-making process. Reviewing meeting agendas and procedures equips student board members with the necessary tools to engage meaningfully in discussions and votes.
The initial orientation should just be the start of training. Regular meetings between the superintendent or board president and the student board member are essential for ongoing support and education. These sessions, ideally conducted before each board meeting, may cover diverse topics such as the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), budgeting processes and data interpretation. With this knowledge, student board members can effectively advocate for their peers on critical educational matters.
Student board members should supplement local training with formal programs provided by CSBA, including student trustee-specific workshops, networking opportunities and tailored sessions at the Annual Education Conference and Trade Show. CSBA also provides a student board member training series beginning Aug. 19, which delves into governance issues with a student lens. Visit csba.org/TrainingAndEvents and filter by “Student Board Member.”
Empowering students in governance not only amplifies the student voice but also enriches decision-making processes by incorporating diverse student perspectives. With proper training and support, student board members can make substantial contributions to their boards, fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.
Ensuring the success of student board members requires a multifaceted approach that combines orientation, ongoing mentorship and access to external resources. By investing in the development of student leaders, California school boards can cultivate a more representative and responsive governance framework, ultimately benefiting the entire school community.
CSBA resources for student board members
- Fact Sheet: Student School Board Members in California: csba.pub/student-trustee-facts
- Overview of student board member trainings and related articles: csba.pub/student-trustee-trainings