School Trustee Elections - background

Further to our previous release, here is some background information on the School Trustee Elections which affect 2,500 schools around New Zealand

Background:

- The trustee elections are the largest democratic event in the country, involving the election of a board of trustees for 2,500 state and state-integrated New Zealand schools.

- The event is held every three years and this is the seventh election since the introduction of self-managed schools in 1989.

- More than 13,000 people are needed to form boards and more than 90,000 people have taken on the trusteeship role since 1989.

- The theme of the campaign is make a difference for our schools – asking New Zealanders with a balance of skills and experiences to take up this critical role in their school community.

- Trustees do not have to be parents nor have children at the school they stand for.

- Trustees need to have a commitment to children and education and the skills to ultimately help the school lift student achievement.

- The board of trustees has overall responsibility for the governance of a school. It sets the educational goals and strategic direction of the school.

- Boards can choose how they want their school to develop. They ensure that students are achieving, that the school complies with the law and is a responsible employer.

- Trustees support the principal and staff.

- Ongoing training and support is offered to trustees to help them in their role.

- Key dates in 2007

Nominations called by March 1
Nominations close Noon, March 15
Polls close Noon, March 29
Results declared April 4

ENDS

© Scoop Media