Strengthening School Board Collaboration to Drive District Success

Yet, building these relationships doesn’t happen by chance. It requires intentional, ongoing engagement—not just during board meetings but through consistent conversations that create alignment, encourage innovation, and keep everyone focused on what matters most: student success.

One of the most effective ways to foster connection and gather valuable input is through structured, one-on-one conversations—often called “rounding” in leadership development. While rounding is a well-known practice in healthcare, it has powerful applications in education. Regularly checking in with board members helps ensure they feel heard, valued, and supported in their role while providing school leaders with insightful feedback to guide decision-making.

The Impact of Strong Board Communication

When district leaders and boards build strong relationships through open, two-way communication, the benefits extend far beyond the boardroom:

• Improved Decision-Making– Leaders gain a clearer understanding of board priorities, helping align district initiatives with strategic goals.
• Greater Community Trust – A well-informed, engaged board can communicate the district’s vision effectively to the community, strengthening public confidence.
• Stronger Employee Engagement – When board members recognize and support staff efforts, it boosts morale and reinforces a culture of excellence.
• Enhanced Student Outcomes – A district where leadership and governance are in sync can focus on the most impactful initiatives for students.

How to Strengthen Your Connection With Board Members

To create a more collaborative and engaged board, consider implementing a structured approach to communication:

1. Schedule Regular Check-Ins

   Set aside time to connect individually with each board member throughout the year—whether monthly or quarterly—based on their needs, preferences, and availability. These one-on-one discussions provide a deeper understanding of board members’ perspectives and priorities.

2. Ask the Right Questions

   Start with a personal question to build rapport, then shift to more targeted questions such as:
   • What’s going well for you as a board member?
   • Is there anyone in the district you’d like to recognize for their contributions?
   • Do you feel you have the information and resources needed to be effective?
   • What challenges are you seeing, and how can we address them?

3. Recognize and Reinforce Positive Contributions

   When board members feel valued, they are more engaged and invested in the district’s success. Show appreciation through:
   • Public recognition in meetings and district communications.
   • Personal thank-you notes or calls to acknowledge their impact.
   • Highlighting board members’ contributions to staff, students, and the community.

4. Close the Loop on Feedback

   Listening is important, but following up on feedback is what builds trust. If a concern is raised, take action where possible—and if changes can’t be made, be transparent about why. Keep board members updated on progress to demonstrate that their input leads to meaningful outcomes.

A well-connected board and leadership team don’t just improve governance—they elevate the entire district. By prioritizing structured, ongoing conversations and fostering an environment of trust and collaboration, leaders can create a unified approach that strengthens schools, engages staff, and ultimately enhances student success.

Ready to build stronger board relationships? Start by scheduling intentional conversations and listening with purpose—because when leadership and governance are aligned, great things happen.

Learn More: Podcast Episodes on Effective Board Collaboration

For real-world insights from education leaders who have strengthened their board relationships, check out these episodes of the Accelerate Your Performance podcast:

Fuel Success with a Feedback Loop

Superintendent Dr. Shawn Tennenbaum shares how rounding transformed board relationships in San Benito High School District and created a feedback loop that drives lasting change.

Collaborate and Innovate With Your School Board Members

Dr. Nate Nelson, Superintendent of Porterville Unified, and Board President Lillian Durbin discuss how open communication fosters innovation and better district outcomes.

Clarity in Alignment

Colorado Superintendent Mike Crawford shares how he maintains strong relationships with the school board, promotes collaboration among staff, and regularly engages in the rounding process.

Rounding for Results

Superintendent Dr. Shawn Tennenbaum and Board President John Corrigan of San Benito High School District share how leader rounding has strengthened communication, built trust, and provided valuable feedback from employees and the community.

Building Trust to Enable Success for Boards and Leaders

Dale Shaver, Director of Waukesha County Department of Parks and Land Use, and Laura Catherman, Director of the Waukesha-Ozaukee-Washington Workforce Development Board, explain how strategic alignment and intentional trust-building create a stronger school district and community.

Working with the School Board

Wisconsin school board president Faith VanderHorst discusses how superintendents and board members can align on goals to drive district-wide success.