The Governance Health Index (GHI) is comprised of three diagnostic assessments designed to help boards and heads evaluate governance effectiveness across six core competencies. Use one, two, or all three together.

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Six core governance competencies

What is the SAIS Governance Health Index Framework?

Every GHI instrument assesses board and head performance across the same six competencies, each mapped to a four-level developmental continuum.

1

Collaborative Leadership

Clear governance delineation, aligned resources and policies, and operational coherence in service of mission.

2

Community Engagement

Meaningful relationships with internal and external stakeholders that advance strategic priorities.

3

Strategic Direction

Designing, communicating, and coalescing community around mission, vision, and strategic priorities.

4

Talent Cultivation

Recruiting and developing high-performing professionals aligned with school mission, vision, and values.

5

Shared Accountability

An interdependent relationship where head and board collectively uphold responsibilities and monitor progress.

6

Adaptive Innovation

A commitment to an ongoing learning and goal-setting to innovate in response to an evolving educational landscape.

Performance Continuum

At Risk

Governance is fragmented, alignment with mission and strategy is weak. Immediate action needed.

Developing

Some structures exist, but inconsistencies in leadership and accountability limit effectiveness.

Effective

Governance is strong and roles are well-defined, though areas for improvement remain.

Distinguished

Governance operates at an optimal level with strong accountability and mission-aligned strategy.

Survey Instruments

Three assessments: Use one, two, or all three

Each GHI instrument can be deployed independently or in combination. All responses are anonymous; demographic data are reported in aggregate only. Schools receive a survey link to distribute to their board and should plan to keep the survey open for 10-14 days.

Board Self-Evaluation

A reflective tool for trustees to assess their collective effectiveness across the core competencies. Helps boards identify strengths, surface opportunities, and align governance practices with the school’s mission and strategic priorities. Generally completed by all trustees and the head of school.

Executive Committee Evaluation

Assesses how the executive committee models core competencies, supports the head of school, cultivates board effectiveness, and guides strategic decisions. It promotes continuous improvement and ensures the committee leads with clarity, integrity, and alignment with the school’s mission and vision. Generally completed by all trustees and the head of school.

Head of School Evaluation

A mission-aligned, reflective tool (not a performance rating) that promotes continuous development and assesses how head and board collaborate with purpose, adaptability, and long-term vision. Generally completed by the executive committee or all trustees.

Pricing

Instruments SelectedSAIS MemberNon-Members
Any one instrument$250$1,000 flat fee
Any two instruments$350included above
All three instruments (best value)$500included above

Ready to strengthen your board’s governance?

Contact SAIS Director of Resources Sheri Burkeen with any questions before ordering.

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Deepen the Work

Every GHI instrument assesses board and head performance across the same six competencies, each mapped to a four-level developmental continuum.

Virtual Results Debrief

A guided debrief of your GHI survey results with an SAIS staff member, turning data into dialogue and actionable next steps.

On-Campus Workshop

Schedule an in-person workshop to work through GHI findings and build governance capacity with your board, please use the button to complete the form.