Board of Education

1. What does a School Board member actually do?

Board members focus on policy-making, governance, and strategic oversight. 
Key responsibilities include:

• Setting the district’s long-term vision and academic goals.
• Approving the budget and ensuring financial accountability.
• Hiring, evaluating, and supporting the superintendent.
• Representing community interests and making decisions in line with district policy and state law.
• You can find more about a school board member's roles and responsibilities on the MASB website.

They do not handle day-to-day management or operations of the school district. 

2. How Much Time Does It Require?

Serving on the Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education is a meaningful and rewarding commitment that requires time, preparation, and engagement. On average, board members can expect to dedicate 15–20 hours per month to board-related responsibilities. Below is a breakdown of the typical time commitment involved:

  A. Regular Board Meetings

• Frequency: The Caledonia Board of Education holds regular board meetings each month, typically in the evening. Meetings usually last between 1–2 hours, depending on the agenda.
• Preparation Time: Before each meeting, board members are expected to review materials such as the agenda, reports, financial updates, policy drafts, and superintendent updates. Preparation time is generally 1–2 hours per meeting.

  B. Committee of the Whole

• What It Is: Instead of traditional committee work, Caledonia Community Schools uses a Committee of the Whole structure. This meeting allows the full board to come together for deeper discussion on complex or upcoming topics before formal decisions are made at the next regular board meeting.
• Frequency: The Committee of the Whole typically meets on the Wednesday before each Regular Board Meeting.
• Time Commitment: These sessions usually last 2–4 hours, depending on the agenda.
• Preparation Time: Board members generally spend 2 or more hours reviewing materials in advance.

  C. Special Sessions

• Occasionally, board members are asked to attend additional special meetings to address district priorities, such as:
  • Budget hearings
  • Strategic planning sessions
• These meetings are scheduled as needed throughout the year.

  D. School and Community Engagement

• Board members are encouraged to attend various school and community events to stay connected with students, families, and staff. This may include:
  • Special school events
  • Athletic events
  • Graduation ceremonies
  • Civic meetings and outreach
• Estimated time commitment: 3–5 hours per month, depending on the season and events.

  E. Training and Professional Development

• Initial Training: MASB recommends that new board members complete approximately 16 hours of foundational training in their first year. This covers topics like governance, finance, legal obligations, and effective board practices.
• Ongoing Learning: Board members are encouraged to attend additional training opportunities each year, such as workshops, webinars, or conferences, to stay current on best practices and education policy.

  F. Strategic Planning and Retreats

• The Board may participate in an annual retreat or strategic planning session, typically lasting a half day or more. This allows the Board to set goals, review progress, and prioritize future initiatives.

3. What skills or qualifications are helpful?

While not required, useful traits include:

• Critical thinking, collaboration, and ethical judgment.
• Openness to learning, with a focus on finance, governance, policy, and legal matters.
• Ability to act in the district’s best interest, set aside personal differences, and govern with transparency.

4. How long is the term of service?

The appointed trustee will serve until December 31, 2026, and will have the opportunity to run in the November 2026 election if they choose to continue.

5. Is there public accountability or scrutiny?

Yes. Board meetings are public under the Open Meetings Act. Decisions are made openly and involve community input. Board members are held to high ethical standards and expected to act with transparency and professionalism.

6. How does the Board work with the superintendent?

The Board governs; the superintendent administers. This relationship is collaborative, but the Board's role focuses on policy and oversight, not operations. Effective Board and superintendent teamwork is key to success. 

You can find more about a school board member's roles and responsibilities on the MASB website.

Tim Morris (President)                   John Brandow (Vice-President)     Brittany Barber Garcia (Treasurer)
Board Service (2013-2028)           Board Service (2023-2028)            Board Service (2021-2026)  

Katie Isic (Secretary)                    Shawn Collins (Trustee)                 Jessica Kohn (Trustee)  
Board Service (2021-2026)          Board Service (2025-2030)            Board Service (2025-2030) 

Jennifer Nichols (Trustee)
Board Service (2023-2028)