Board of Education
Embedded Files
Q: Where can I find information about the Westfield Board of Education?
Q: Where can I find information about the Westfield Board of Education?
Please visit the Board tab at www.westfieldnjk12.org to find information and resources regarding the Westfield Board of Education. Specific information includes:
Q: Where can I learn more about the roles/responsibilities of a Board of Education in New Jersey?
Q: Where can I learn more about the roles/responsibilities of a Board of Education in New Jersey?
Please review "A Guide to Board of Education Meetings in New Jersey" from the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA).
Q: What is the role of the Board of Education and the Superintendent?
Q: What is the role of the Board of Education and the Superintendent?
A: In general, the role of a Board of Education member is not to administer the day-to-day operations of the district, but to see that the school district is well run. The written policies of the Board provide guidance and direction to the Superintendent for making decisions and taking action. Well-crafted policies minimize ambiguity between the Board and its Chief School Administrator and promote the smooth operation of the school system.
Adapted from: Who Does What in Public School Governance
Q: I have a concern associated with my child, the school, or the district. Is the Board of Education the appropriate body to address it?
Q: I have a concern associated with my child, the school, or the district. Is the Board of Education the appropriate body to address it?
A: The Westfield Public School District asks that families work up the chain of command, per Policy 9130. For instance, if a parent has a problem with a teacher, the parent should first address it with the teacher and, if the issue is not resolved, the parent should turn to the principal or supervisor, and then the superintendent. The school board should be the “court of last resort.” Many times citizens can get answers to their questions simply by contacting the appropriate person in the school district.
(Adapted from the New Jersey School Boards Association - FAQ)
Q: What are the protocols for public participation during a Board of Education meeting?
Q: What are the protocols for public participation during a Board of Education meeting?
A: There are two opportunities for Public Comment at each Westfield Board of Education meeting; the first on agenda action items only, the second on any item.
Although the Board may not respond to items raised, all public comments will be considered.
Each speaker’s statement will be limited to three (3) minutes in duration.
All remarks must be directed to the Board President or designee (not to individual members or staff).
Additional procedures for public participation are posted on the Board tab at www.westfieldnjk12.org.
Q: The Board of Education seems to work through the agenda without much debate. Why?
Q: The Board of Education seems to work through the agenda without much debate. Why?
A: The Westfield Board of Education utilizes a committee structure, with members of the Board assigned to committees to work with key administrators to study a specific issue and make recommendations to the full Board for a vote. By the time the Board has a regular “agenda” or “business” meeting where it votes on issues, the agenda items have usually been vetted or studied already. (Adapted from the NJSBA)
Q: What should I know if I'm considering running for a seat on the Board of Education?
Q: What should I know if I'm considering running for a seat on the Board of Education?
Please review "What Candidates Want to Know About Being a School Board Member" and "Ten Things School Board Candidates Should Know" from the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA).
Page updated
Report abuse