It is a truism that the most talented teams do not always come out on top.
Often, the team that “claims the prize” is one whose members support each other, utilize one other’s strengths, and minimize weaknesses. As Michael Jordan – who knows something about teams and teamwork – succinctly said, “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.”
As with sports teams, school boards are comprised of talented people. Yet, too often boards do not reach their potential because members do not work together as a team. A team is a cohesive group of individuals with diverse skill sets and shared objectives, working interdependently and collaboratively to achieve a common goal or mission.
A highly effective board includes individuals with varying skill sets and perspectives who all work towards the same goals for the school. Each person is appreciated for what they contribute to solving a problem or crafting a plan. It is the mix of talents engaging in important work that makes for a board that functions as a great team.
All boards that want to act as an effective team should create a board playbook. The playbook should be devised by the board – ideally in an annual board retreat – and should include the following elements:
As Marty Moran, former CEO of Chipotle, once said, “The most powerful tool any leader has is a team that is at its best.” Your school and your head will thrive if the board is at its very best. Work towards becoming a great team.
Want to learn more? Join us for the second installment of our Trustee Education Series, November 12, 2024, 5:00-6:00 PM Eastern as we discuss the auditing landscape for nonprofits.
And, don’t miss the SAIS Board/Head Workshop, which meets in person October 20, 2024, in Charlotte, NC.