Categorized | Education

Board members sought for public charter schools

MEDIA RELEASE

Parents and other community members dedicated to advancing public education are encouraged to submit their resumes for openings on boards of directors at Big Island charter schools.

In keeping with a far-reaching state law, this transition to new governance between now and Dec. 31 addresses unique challenges facing charter campuses by recruiting board members possessing certain skills and expertise.

“Guided by strong governing boards, charters can lead the way for public education reform because they have more flexibility to do what’s best for students,” said Lynn Finnegan, executive director of the Hawaii Public Charter School Network (HPSCN).

“Charters empower principals and teachers, focus on academic and cultural specialties and meet the needs and strengths of individual students and communities,” Finnegan said. “Consequently, our charters are making notable progress in student achievement – despite the lack of funding for facilities.”

The state’s 32 charter campuses, which recently passed the 10,000 enrollment mark, all have independent governing boards responsible for their school’s academic, financial and organizational viability.

Board members also ensure compliance with state and federal laws.

Under Act 130, the 2012 charter omnibus law, no more than 30 percent of voting governing board members can be employees of the school or relatives of those employees.

When selecting board members, special consideration is given to applicants who:

* Provide a diversity of perspective and level of objectivity accurately representing the interests of charter school students and the surrounding community

* Demonstrate an understanding of best practices of nonprofit governance

* Possess strong financial and academic management and oversight abilities

* Have experience in human resources and fundraising matters

Hawaii Island charter schools include:

* Innovations
* West Hawaii Explorations
* Kona Pacific
* Connections
* Hawaii Academy of Arts and Sciences
* Ka Umeke Kaeo
* Ke Ana Laahana
* Kua o Ka La
* Kanu o ka Aina New Century
* Waimea Middle
* Ke Kula o Nawahiokalaniopuuiki
* Laupahoehoe Community
* Volcano School of Arts & Sciences
* Waters of Life in Mountain View

Persons interested in serving on a charter school governing board are encouraged to submit their resumes to HPCSNBoardBank@gmail.com.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

 

Quantcast