Parents and other community members dedicated to advancing public education are encouraged to submit their resumes for openings on boards of directors at East Hawaii charter schools.
Parents and other community members dedicated to advancing public education are encouraged to submit their resumes for openings on boards of directors at East Hawaii charter schools.
In keeping with a far-reaching state law, this transition to new governance between now and Dec. 31 addresses unique challenges facing charter campuses by recruiting board members possessing certain skills and expertise.
“Guided by strong governing boards, charters can lead the way for public education reform because they have more flexibility to do what’s best for students,” pointed out Lynn Finnegan, executive director of the Hawaii Public Charter School Network (HPSCN).
“Charters empower principals and teachers, focus on academic and cultural specialties and meet the needs and strengths of individual students and communities,” Finnegan added. “Consequently, our charters are making notable progress in student achievement – despite the lack of funding for facilities.”
The state’s 32 charter campuses, which recently passed the 10,000 enrollment mark, all have independent governing boards responsible for their school’s academic, financial and organizational viability.
Board members also ensure compliance with state and federal laws. Under Act 130, the 2012 charter omnibus law, no more than 30 percent of voting governing board members can be employees of the school or relatives of those employees.
When selecting board members, special consideration is given to applicants who:
— Provide a diversity of perspective and level of objectivity accurately representing the interests of charter school students and the surrounding community;
— Demonstrate an understanding of best practices of nonprofit governance;
— Possess strong financial and academic management and oversight abilities, and — Have experience in human resources and fundraising matters.
Hawaii Island charter schools include: Connections, Ka ‘Umeke Ka’eo and Ke Ana La’ahana in Hilo; Hawaii Academy of Arts and Sciences and Kua ‘o Ka La in Pahoa; Kanu ‘o ka ‘Aina New Century and Waimea Middle in Kamuela; Ke Kula ‘o Nawahiokalani’opu’u Iki in Keaau; Laupahoehoe Community in Laupahoehoe; Volcano School of Arts & Sciences in Volcano; and Waters of Life in Mountain View.
Persons interested in serving on a charter school governing board are encouraged to submit their resumes to HPCSN at HPCSNBoardBank@gmail.com.