In one of his last acts as Texas governor, President-Elect George W. Bush proclaimed January 2001 as School Board Recognition Month. Districts across the state will use this opportunity to show their appreciation and bolster understanding of the crucial role elected boards of education play in their communities and schools. Young people are the Lone Star State's most precious resource, and their education is our most important responsibility. In towns and cities throughout Texas, locally elected school board members govern and guide schools in accordance with the will of the people. Texas has more than 7,000 school board members, representing the largest group of elected officials in the state.
Most school boards consist of seven locally elected trustees who serve three-year terms without pay.
I encourage all Texans to recognize school board members for their service to communities throughout the Lone Star State. School board members serve as advocates for our children first and foremost, protecting each child's opportunity to maximize his or her potential. Trustees offer vision, knowledge, leadership, and dedication, and work purely for the common good. Local trustees work with community leaders, families, and educators to develop sound educational policies in their districts. They help us to set high standards in the education system and encourage us to strive to reach those goals.