Libby Jones - Consider Community Roles

 

Recent ANZAC Day commemorations have reminded us of the people that made sacrifices so that today we live in a democratic and free country. Of course there may be plenty that we disagree with in how that democracy is demonstrated, but we are fortunate all the same to have the freedoms and choices we do have.

One of the obvious examples of choices is the opportunity to select those who govern us, nationally and in local public bodies. In 2016 the three-year cycle of school boards of trustees elections and local body elections all fall due, so you will no doubt hear more about exercising your rights and freedoms.

If you think that you would rather be a part of making the decisions, rather than having them made for you, then think about putting yourself forward for a governance role. The first of the public elections for the year is the school boards of trustees, with nominations due May 20 and voting at the beginning of June. All New Zealand state and state integrated schools have a board of trustees with between three and seven (usually five) parent elected members. In my experience, being on a school board of trustees is a great way to cut your teeth and learn about governance before taking on other roles.

Self-managing schools with elected boards came into being in 1989, so this year is the 10th school trustees election. Anyone with a child at the school can nominate themselves or someone else for the school board. The person being nominated does not have to have a child at the school. Boards work best when they have a range of skills, experiences and backgrounds so they are representative of the school community. Trustees are making decisions for all the students of the school, with the main purpose being to improve their education achievement.

The board is involved in what needs to be done and the outcomes to be achieved, the principal/management determine how it gets done. Learning the difference between governance and management is vital for a successful board. Beyond that, if you can ask constructive questions, debate respectfully, have an enquiring mind, be a good communicator and want to make a positive difference, why not give it a go? Training is provided through the NZ School Trustee Association and their website, nzsta.org.nz, contains plenty of relevant information to help you decide if it is for you.

Another important way for us to demonstrate our appreciation to our forbears, who fought for our freedoms, is to exercise our right to vote. Commit to voting in all the elections you are eligible for this year. Find out about the candidates and vote in the school board of trustees elections, district council, regional council, health board and electric power trust elections.