Practical PR: A Strong Start
The Power of Communication and Engagement when Onboarding New Board Members
By Erika Krehbiel
Imagine a student walking into class on the first day, eager yet nervous. They’re handed their first test. If they earn an A, they gain confidence, engage more in class, and build momentum. But if they get a failing grade, doubt takes over, making it harder to catch up and participate fully.
A strong start matters. Just like students, new board members thrive when they are set up for success from day one. Thoughtful onboarding ensures that instead of playing catch-up, they are empowered to lead, engage, and make a lasting positive impact on the district.
A strong start that prioritizes clear communication and active engagement helps new board members feel confident and connected. When new members are welcomed, informed, and encouraged to ask questions, they quickly find their voice.
Proactive onboarding is not just a formality; it is a game-changer. A well-structured onboarding process should prioritize these objectives:
Build trust with the community.
Encourage collaboration between the board and district leadership.
Enhance board effectiveness and decision-making.
Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Here are the actionable steps districts can take to support new board members through strategic communication and engagement.
Building Trust Through Open Communication
New board members should work to establish trust with parents, staff, students, and the wider community. An intentional communication strategy can facilitate this. Trust is built through sharing of information, responsiveness, and an openness to feedback. When board members are seen as accessible and well-informed, they gain credibility and can foster meaningful relationships within the district community. This foundation of trust is essential for effective leadership and decision-making.
Host a meet and greet for new board members. Provide an opportunity for board members to engage with community members, hear community perspectives, and introduce themselves in an informal setting.
Develop a Board Member 101 Packet. Include the district’s mission, vision, strategic plan, and information about current initiatives to ensure new board members can speak confidently and accurately about the district.
Implement a regular board update communication. Weekly or bi-weekly updates from the superintendent keep board members informed, allowing them to answer questions and concerns effectively.
Strengthening Board-Administration Collaboration
Strong relationships between board members and district leadership lead to more effective board work. When board members and administrators communicate openly and frequently, they develop mutual respect and an understanding of their shared goals. Establishing these connections early helps new board members feel more comfortable in their role and encourages collaboration.
Organize an orientation with district leadership. Schedule one-on-one or small-group meetings with the new board members and the superintendent as well as key administrators to build foundational relationships.
Schedule school tours. Arrange visits to schools, classrooms, and district facilities so board members can see firsthand how their decisions could impact students and the schools overall.
Enhancing Board Effectiveness Through Continuous Learning
Effective board governance requires members to be well-informed to make sound decisions. A commitment to ongoing education and professional development helps board members stay up to date with best practices, legal requirements, and evolving educational trends. When board members are informed they are more confident in their role and contribute more effectively to board discussions and decision-making.
Provide a library of resources. Offer digital or print materials covering board policies, legal responsibilities, meeting procedures, and district goals.
Host listening sessions. Encourage board members to gather feedback through community forums, focus groups, or committee of the whole meetings as a way to engage on timely topics.
Create conversation opportunities. Provide opportunities for board members to host monthly coffee and conversation sessions, attend school and community events, and represent the school district at community organization meetings.
Fostering Accountability and Growth
Accountability and continuous improvement should be central to a board member’s role. Providing opportunities for reflection helps board members grow in their position and make a greater impact. By embracing a culture of self-assessment and recognition, board members remain motivated and committed to their responsibilities.
Set clear board norms. Establish meeting norms and a commitment to ongoing learning and engagement. Communicate this information to the community for clarity through print and digital communications.
Encourage self-assessment and reflection. Provide structured opportunities for new board members to evaluate their understanding and effectiveness throughout the year.
Celebrate milestones and contributions. Recognize board members for their service and growth through public acknowledgments, awards, or community spotlights.
Just like a student who thrives with encouragement and guidance throughout the school year, new school board members succeed when they receive ongoing support beyond their first meeting. Effective onboarding is more than a one-time orientation; it is a sustained commitment to open communication and meaningful engagement by the district in support of the board of education.