As public officials, school board members often receive comments or criticism of the school outside formal communication channels already established by the school district. Constructive comments are beneficial when someone from the public is sincerely motivated to help improve the quality of the school’s educational program. However, members of the community must remember that the main role of school board members is to set policy to advance the improvement of the school district. It is the Board’s responsibility to tend to the overall educational and financial well being of the school district and to ensure student achievement.
Each Board member’s authority rests in the collective, governing action of the entire Board—not in the day-to-day management of the school. It is the responsibility of administrators and school employees to manage and troubleshoot the day-to-day operations of the school. Therefore, when a Board member receives constructive comments or criticism, the Board member can only relay that information to the appropriate school administrator or employee. It is then the responsibility of the school administrator or employee to address the concern or complaint.
The Treynor Community School is asking for members of the community to help us maintain the proper channels of communication by following theses procedures:
All concerns or complaints should be addressed and resolved at the lowest level by starting with the employee directly involved with the situation. Here are two examples to demonstrate the proper procedure:
Example 1: If a member of the community has constructive criticism or a concern with a teacher, that person should address the issue directly with that teacher. If a resolution to the situation cannot be reached, the matter should then be referred to the appropriate administrator. If the situation warrants further action, there are procedures and policies to guide the process.
Example 2: If a member of the community has constructive criticism or a concern with a coach, that person should address the issue directly with that coach. If a resolution to the situation cannot be reached, the matter should then be referred to the athletic director. If the situation still remains unresolved, the matter should be referred to the appropriate administrator. If the situation warrants further action, there are procedures and policies to guide the process.
The Treynor Community School recognizes the importance of maintaining the appropriate channels of communication. Following the above procedure allows for a more effective and efficient school district. The process ensures that concerns and issues are addressed as quickly as possible. Please help us improve our school by utilizing the above procedures.
