Strategic Training for Republican School Boards

With more school boards gaining Republican majorities, it’s essential to train new members effectively. Proper training helps them understand educational policies, administration, and community expectations. This ensures informed decision-making, promotes unity, builds strength against external pressures, and aligns with broader educational goals.

“School board elections have become a new battleground in American politics, with typically non-partisan races becoming increasingly polarized and garnering national attention.” Geoff Bennett, PBS

First, informed decision-making is crucial. School board members impact many students through decisions on budgeting and curriculum choices. Without proper training, new members might struggle, leading to poor decisions that can negatively affect students and teachers. For example, a Republican-majority board in Virginia attempted to implement a conservative curriculum that emphasized traditional American values but faced significant backlash due to inadequate preparation and understanding of state guidelines. Structured training can provide the necessary knowledge and skills to benefit the school community.

Second, training enhances goal-making and consistency within the board. It helps new members understand their roles, responsibilities, and procedures. A well-trained board in Florida successfully implemented a district-wide literacy program because all members were aligned on its goals. In contrast, a Republican-majority board in Wisconsin struggled with a new STEM curriculum due to a lack of coordinated effort, causing delays and increased costs. This lack of coordination often develops from new members not fully grasping the procedural and strategic elements of their roles.

Moreover, new members must handle external pressures from special interest groups and political opponents. Training can strengthen members against these pressures, teaching them to stay focused on their mission and make decisions based on facts and students’ best interests. For example, in Ohio, a school board faced intense lobbying from various interest groups regarding sex education curriculum but made decisions grounded in educational research rather than submitting to external demands.

Additionally, new Republican board members need resilience, as they may face scrutiny and criticism. Proper training can build their confidence and determination, preparing them to stand firm despite challenges. In North Carolina, a board faced public backlash and legal challenges after carelessly passing a controversial policy without adequate consultation, leading to costly reversals. Similarly, many Republican-majority school boards struggle to pass conservative plans regarding education, such as restrictions on certain books or changes to sex education programs, due to strong opposition from various community stakeholders. These struggles accentuate the importance of being well-prepared and knowledgeable about legal frameworks and effective advocacy strategies.

Without adequate training, members risk wasting valuable time. Lack of team support and unity allows outside critics to create stress, leading to resignations. For instance, a lack of training and internal strife led to several members of a Michigan school board resigning, causing instability. Similarly, in Pennsylvania, poor communication and strategy led to a board member’s resignation, highlighting how internal discord can undermine board effectiveness.

In conclusion, strategic training for incoming Republican school board majorities is vital. It promotes informed decision-making, enhances goal-making, and aligns with educational goals. Practical training provides new members with the necessary knowledge, strengthens their resilience, and helps them stay committed, creating a foundation for effective administration and positive educational outcomes.