Does the board need its own set of Board Policies? What key policies should a board have to ensure effective governance? So what exactly is a board policy?
A policy is a critical and far-reaching decision made by a board of trustees.
A policy:
- Is an idea that is embodied in a written document
- Is ratified by a legitimate authority
- Serves as a guide to action
The major policies of a charter school are created and ratified by its board of trustees. These are typically contained in a policy manual for easy reference, and are reviewed frequently to see if they are up to date and still relevant. They should cover all major areas of the charter school’s operations.
- Policies are broad precepts or principles designed to influence and control future decision, directions, and actions of the board.
- Boards should focus on broad organizational policies and leave operating policies and procedures to the school’s administration.
- Through policy-making, the board is able to delegate authority and still maintain ultimate responsibility and control.
- Polices provide a framework in which other decisions can be made and the work of the board and staff can be carried out.
- Policies ensure consistency.
- And finally, they minimize “re-deliberation” of matters on which the board has previously decided.
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