Psychological Safety for School Board Members

The importance of providing a sense of support amid criticism and hostility for the public service roles they fulfill

As important as it is to provide ongoing professional learning and support to educators in a school district, it is equally important to offer support to school board members, especially if we want to nurture and maintain effective board leadership.

Unfortunately, external conflicts significantly affect school board member performance and retention, particularly the public service of those who represent traditionally underserved populations. Angry, loud and outspoken community members who also may not understand the roles and responsibilities of board members may denounce them for decisions beyond the board’s control or purview, such as state- and government-related mandates and legal regulations.

Internal conflicts arise when board members do not trust each other, hold differing opinions or feel their voices are not adequately represented in the meeting room. While disagreement and healthy arguments can ensure the airing of multiple perspectives, board members must feel safe sharing their opinions without feeling persecuted by fellow members.