Changes for most schools

MEDIA RELEASE
Changes for most schools

Over the next six weeks the election of 15,000 school trustees will take place in the three yearly cycle of school board elections.

This could mean significant change for some of the approximately 2400 state and state integrated schools across New Zealand, as whole boards stand down and newly elected trustees take office.

Nominations are now being called for, and although 65% of current trustees intend to re-stand, a high number of new trustees are needed.

The New Zealand Trustees Association (NZSTA) is encouraging people with the right skills, attitudes and experience to step forward and be nominated.

School trustees are responsible for setting the strategic direction of the school, monitoring progress and reporting on results such as national standards.

“For this reason, says Elaine Hines, National election project manager, we need people with the right skills, who want to make a positive difference to our children’s learning, and can focus on improving the achievement of all students.”

“If parents, families and whānau all get involved and take an active part in their school election process, they can take ownership of nominating and electing the right people to make a positive difference for our children.”

For those considering trusteeship for the first time, Ms Hines suggests they contact their local school for more information. She also encourages people to nominate others they think would make good trustees. “You don’t need to have a child at the school; you just need to care about seeing your local school and its students succeed.”

Elaine Hines encourages those who are undecided to take the time to consider the valuable role boards of trustees play in children’s education.

“We know that 95% of trustees describe their experience as a school trustee as very positive or positive, and with 90% of trustees considering that the time on the board had benefited them in terms of personal growth. 98% say they would not only recommend school trusteeship, but would encourage others to stand”.

Nominations close at noon on 16 May, with voting closing at noon 30 May 2013.

The 2013 School Trustee Elections are New Zealand’s biggest single democratic event and this is the ninth triennial election since self managing schools were introduced in 1989.

Key dates:
Call for nominations By 2 May 2013
Nominations close Noon 16 May 2013
Voting closes Noon 30 May 2013
Results declared 5 June 2013
New board takes office 6 June 2013
ENDS

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