Public expectations of school board trustees

Dr. Anthony Piscitelli (PI)

This project builds on existing work on the role nonprofit board of directors have in representing the interest of their constituents. Surveying over 2500 Ontario residents, including parents with school-aged children, the survey helps examine what parents and other members of school boards expect from trustees, and examines the relationships between those expectations. Overall, the survey found that many respondents did not understand the role of a trustee, suggesting that trustees are not highly relevant to many Ontarians. Those who did respond indicated three primary and distinct roles: trustees represent the public, support administrative functions of the school board, and ensure educational outcomes are met. These findings look to encourage school board trustees to better engage with voters and the public.