Those who can't shift their thinking to the next discussion undermine the democratic process. Executive sessions are permitted by law so that certain matters can be discussed in confidence . Ambushes and sniping are terrorist techniques, and surprises should be saved for birthdays. Being visible is important . When board members attend school events and district activities, people notice.
Communication means different things to different people .
When things go wrong, it's usually the result of the way you do business or how people get treated in the process. When people say that there has been a communication breakdown, do some serious thinking about what they really mean. Most are somewhere between the extremes of the continuum. If you're new to the board, listen and learn before taking action. If you're an experienced board member, try the same thing.