School boards have the potential to build an extraordinary future for our children. The leadership of the school board can launch the potential in every child and educator in their schools or it can cripple and discourage learning communities.Elected trustees play a critical role in todays school systems. As policymakers governors and community representatives they influence the direction and achievement of schools within their jurisdiction. Administrators new to the school board table must quickly acquire comprehensive knowledge of the mandate and purpose of the school board and how to work with trustees to lead the school district to attain its educational goals. Exploring facets of school board governance such as the role of democracy public finance accountability purposeful meetings and how to work with the personalities at the table this book offers foundational training for board members and general knowledge for persons interested in knowing what school trustees actually do.Thoroughly understanding the purpose of the school board and what it means to guard the trust on behalf of the citizenry is critical to improved schools and quality education.