Have procedures in place. By establishing an agenda, sitting in assigned places and following parliamentary procedures, the board conveys a business-like atmosphere for meetings. By setting meeting policies, the board can determine when comments are allowed from the public and for how long. Knowing when and how closed sessions are conducted keeps the board in compliance with the Open Meetings Act. Plan for every meeting.
Planning includes more than just preparing an agenda, although that's where it begins.
If you know a certain item on the agenda could elicit controversy, you will be better able to define your position and defend it. Do your homework. Make certain you take the time to go over the items and familiarize yourself with the issues. You may decide you need additional information or have questions the superintendent could answer before the meeting. Be community friendly.