Ideally, the board’s composition should reflect the broad taxpayer base it is representing.
Discussions about diversity are tough, and this is particularly true in public schools. After all, much of our nation’s public policy about race has been played out in our public schools. Nonetheless, you will be doing your school a disservice if your board doesn’t routinely discuss issues of diversity. Discussing diversity is an important part of the process through which a board develops its values and vision.
The board should discuss the meaning of diversity in the context of the organization they are governing, why it is important, and what will be done to ensure that diversity on the board is maintained. The board’s discussion should include articulation of whom the school is serving, and how closely the board should reflect the school’s constituency and why.
A Point to Consider
When thinking about achieving diversity on the board, it may be helpful to think through a relevant scenario. Imagine you are a parent coming to a board meeting for an expulsion hearing. Who would you need sitting in front of you to make you feel that a just decision will be reached? What should their backgrounds be?
BoardOnTrack Recommends
Think about and discuss “diversity” in the broadest sense of the word. Race and ethnicity are important, but include gender, geography, sexual orientation, religion, etc., as well.
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