Clear decision-making processes help schools operate efficiently and reduce confusion and frustration. In small schools, where leaders and staff often work closely together, it is especially important to clarify who makes which decisions and how decisions are made. These resources are designed to help schools establish clear decision-making structures and use structured approaches to problem-solving.
Decision-making frameworks help clarify who is responsible for different types of decisions. Clear frameworks help prevent confusion and ensure that decisions are made at the appropriate level.
Resources:
Decision-making framework template
Levels of decision-making chart
Governance vs leadership decision chart
Decision-making flowchart
A decision-making authority matrix clarifies who is responsible for making different types of decisions within the school. This helps prevent confusion and ensures that decisions are made efficiently and at the appropriate level.
Resources:
Decision-making authority matrix template
RACI chart template
Responsibility assignment matrix
Decision log template
Structured problem-solving processes help leadership teams address challenges in a thoughtful and consistent way rather than reacting to problems as they arise.
Resources:
Problem-solving protocol template
Root cause analysis template
Issue tracking template
Problem-solving meeting protocol
During a crisis, clear decision-making processes are especially important. Schools should have clear authority structures and communication plans for emergency situations.
Resources:
Crisis decision-making framework
Emergency decision authority chart
Crisis response protocol
Incident response checklist
Leadership meetings should be structured to support discussion, decision-making, and follow-up. Clear meeting structures help ensure that decisions are documented and implemented.
Resources:
Leadership team meeting agenda template
Decision log template
Action item tracker
Meeting notes template
Use of Materials
These resources are provided for AISA member schools for internal school use and adaptation. If you adapt or share these materials, please acknowledge the AISA Small Schools Resource Hub. Materials may not be sold or publicly redistributed without permission.