Advice from Current School Directors
We interviewed six members from three different districts in Thurston County, and this is what we heard!
Diversity matters! If you don't see your community represented, consider running for office.
Have a learner's attitude; listen before speaking and ask good questions.
Be active in school and district activities before you run.
Don't be afraid to run against someone!
Your position in the community will change; you are always "on duty."
It's an unpaid position, but rewarding in ways they never imagined.
Always be the kind of person that returns the grocery cart!
Other Themes We Heard...
You Don't Have To Be An Expert
Many school directors do not have an education background. They didn't build a "7 step master plan" to get them to this point. They serve out of a commitment to giving back to their community and supporting student success. Reminder: The Washington State School Directors Association provides lots of training and support!
Know Why You Are Running
Single-issue campaigns are not usually successful. Service to a school district is about more than simply disagreeing with a policy or a principal. You won the election - now how are you going to show up for your community for four years?
Funding is Complicated
Do the best you can for the most students possible with the revenue that you have! There is never enough money to address every challenge.
Governance Models Matter
It is helpful to know how your district works! School Boards typically manage policies, and not people. How does it engage with the city and other community partners? What issues are best resolved with a teacher, principal, or district staff?
Someone Suggested I Should Run
A high number of school directors indicated a friend or trusted colleague encouraged them to run for school board. Others can see something in us that we might not easily recognize in ourselves.Â
You've already got your first vote - think about it!
Mid-Term Vacancies Are Great Opportunities
Occasionally someone needs to depart before their term is up for re-election. Applying for these vacant seats is a great way to see if this is the right position for you.