The experienced Splendora trustees build trust by stressing open communication. We want new school board members to feel comfortable asking questions about anything, Persson said. The trust also comes from the fact that the board is open to new ideas and willing to try new things, according to Duke. I felt like a complete member, like I belonged from the word go, Duke said. Finding the right fit.
Districts take a variety of approaches to finding mentors for new board members.
Others prefer that all veteran board members participate in the mentoring process and simply encourage new trustees to go to the board member they feel can best help them as needs arise. There are advantages to both approaches. If there s any sense that a board member might be using his or her relationship with a newcomer to build a faction, the situation could cause more harm than good. The best choice, then, is a board member who is thought by all to be able to put his or her own views aside while offering the needed information and advice. Reaping the benefits.