Invite student groups to observe board meetings. These can include scout groups, student councils, social studies classes and school leadership organizations. Write thank you letters to community members who serve on board advisory committees or speak at a board meeting. Write occasional letters to the editor or guest editorials on education topics. Wear your nicest clothing to board meetings and other public events.
Research says that people do make first impressions by appearance.
You want your first impression to be one of caring professionalism. Volunteer to speak about the school board's work before high school government classes. Encourage annual surveys of both staff and community. A survey could focus on such areas as communications, curriculum, building needs, discipline and fiscal management. Use the results to help plan ahead.