Board and board member standards In 1999, board members from throughout the state unanimously approved eight board standards and seven standards for board members.

The standards support the SCSBA mission statement and its two objectives, to have all school boards establish and achieve the highest expectations of their communities and to have all school board members perform their duties of governance at a level of excellence established by SCSBA.

To date, almost two-thirds of the state's 85 school boards have adopted the standards.

South Carolina joins Alaska and Georgia in adopting standards for the board and is the only state to have standards specifically for board members.

SCSBA is the first state association in the nation to offer a comprehensive board assessment system tied to specific standards.

Board standards

The school board:

• serves as an advocate for children and public education

• communicates a clear vision

• acts with fiscal responsibility

• monitors student achievement

• understands and responds to community needs

• conducts professional meetings

• supports the superintendent and administrative staff

• avoids micromanagement

Board member standards

The school board member:

• acts ethically

• demonstrates courage

• works as a team player

• communicates effectively

• makes sound decisions

• stays informed

• devotes sufficient time to duties

For more information, contact Gwen Hampton, 1.800.326.3679.