Policies should be broad enough to admit discretionary action by the administration, but specific enough to give clear guidance. One of the problems a board faces in policy development is distinguishing board policy from administrative rule. Board members should remember that while policy is a guide to present and future action, administrative rules are detailed directives that are used to put the policy into effect. Administrative rules are developed by the administration and tell who does what, when, where, and how. The line between policy and rule is blurred and it varies from district to district.
Some administrators prefer more board support than others.
It is important, however, to come to an understanding of where that line is within your district, and then make sure everyone is aware of that understanding. Other than general board policy and administrative rules, there are also policy-level statements. Board bylaws are rules established by the board to govern its own internal operations. They are often more detailed than other policies and rarely are implemented by administrative rule. Bylaws can greatly influence the board's efficiency.