The following FAQs have been collected from our community and will be updated on our website annually:
FAQ for Chico Country Day School Board of Directors
Q: What is the role of the board?
A: The CCDS Board of Directors oversees the strategic direction of the school, ensures financial stability, and maintains the integrity of the school's mission. They set policies, make significant educational and operational decisions, and hire and evaluate the Executive Director. They are not involved in the day-to-day operations of the school.
Q: What decisions are Board decisions?
A: Board decisions include policy approvals, budget adoption, executive personnel decisions, and long-term strategic planning.
Q: How does the board collaborate with the Executive Director?
A: The board provides governance and oversight, while the Executive Director manages the day-to-day operations of the school. The Executive Director attends board meetings, reports on school progress, and participates in strategic discussions, acting as a liaison between the staff and the board. The Executive Director and Board work together to determine annual goals and work together to realize those goals in service of student educational outcomes.
Q: How does the board support the mission, vision, and values of CCDS?
A: The board ensures that every decision aligns with the school's mission, vision, and values. They actively monitor and guide the school's programs, culture, and curriculum to maintain the institution's foundational principles.
Q: What warrants a closed session?
A: A closed session may occur for discussing personnel issues, negotiations, student matters, security issues, or litigation, as permitted by the Brown Act.
Q: Can the board make decisions on the spot?
A: While emergency or time-sensitive issues may require prompt action, under regular circumstances, items are agendized in advance in accordance with the Brown Act so the public has advance notice of what will be discussed.
Q: How are items agendized?
A: Items are placed on the agenda before the meeting, as required by the Brown Act. The process for submission and approval of agenda items is outlined in the board's bylaws or procedures. Types of meetings include Regular, Special, and Emergency, which all have different agenda-posting timelines.
Q: What training does the board participate in?
A: The board engages in ongoing professional development in areas such as education law, governance, finance, and the Brown Act to effectively fulfill their duties.
Q: How can a parent get involved with the board?
A: Parents can attend board meetings, serve on committees, provide input during public comment periods, and consider applying for a board position when vacancies arise.
Q: How do I contact the board?
A: You can contact the CCDS Board of Directors by email, phone, or mail through the contact information provided on the school's website or administrative office.
Q: What are the Brown Act rules around communication with the board?
A: Under the Brown Act, all communications that pertain to board business must be made in a public setting during official meetings, except for allowable closed session topics.
Q: What concerns should I bring to the board?
A: Matters pertaining to the day-to-day operations of the school should be brought first to the school staff. Concerns regarding school policies, practices, or matters that impact the broader school community can be brought before the board, particularly if they are within the board's governance scope, which was described in more detail above.
Q: How are board members selected?
A: Board members apply and are interviewed by the Board Development representatives. The Board utilizes a matrix to determine areas of need and expertise when seeking new members. Board candidates have a philosophical alignment with the mission of the organization and aspire to bring the values and vision to life at CCDS. A recommendation is brought to the board meeting for approval.