2.4 - Governing Style

SERIES 2 - THE BOARD AND GOVERNANCE

The BOD will govern with an emphasis on (a) strategic leadership more than
administrative detail, (b) clear distinction of BOD and Headmaster roles, (c) collective
rather than individual decisions, (d) future rather than past or present, and (e) proactivity
rather than reactivity. The BOD will:

1. Deliberate in many voices, but govern in one.
2. Cultivate a sense of group responsibility. The BOD, not the staff, will be responsible for excellence in governing. The BOD will be an initiator of policy, not merely a reactor to staff initiatives. The BOD will use the expertise of individual members to enhance the ability of the BOD as a body, rather than to substitute the individual judgments for the BOD’s values.
3. Direct, control and inspire the organization through the careful establishment of broad written policies reflecting the BOD’s values and perspectives. The BOD’s major policy focus will be on the intended long-term Goals, not on the administrative or programmatic means of attaining those effects.
4. Enforce upon itself whatever discipline is needed to govern with excellence. Discipline will apply to matters such as attendance, preparation for meetings, policy- making principles, respect of roles, and ensuring the continuity of governing capability. Continual BOD development will include orientation of new members in the BOD’s governance process and periodic BOD discussion of process improvement. The BOD will allow no office, individual or committee of the BOD to hinder or be an excuse for not fulfilling its commitments.
5. Monitor and discuss the BOD’s process and performance at each meeting. Self- monitoring will include comparison of BOD activity and discipline to the Liberty Common School Charter Application, Contract, Bylaws, and approved policies.

Adopted: 02-25-1999