Prairie South School Division’s board of education has completed its annual self-evaluation and the report shows most members believe they are meeting their goals and objectives.
The results of the annual board of education self-evaluation report were presented during the June 7 meeting, where trustees unanimously voted to receive the document and authorize the board chair to monitor progress on recommendations during the 2022-23 year.
Ten trustees completed the survey in early May and then participated in a workshop later that month to analyze the results.
Accountability
The board agreed or strongly agreed that it met all of the provincial government’s expectations for school boards. The board’s main observation was it appreciated the process of reflection and self-evaluation.
Furthermore, trustees agreed or strongly agreed that they were accountable to the community. However, one member disagreed that the board has two-way communication with school community councils (SCCs) while another didn’t know if the board report the division’s learning results annually.
Some observations included the board does release its annual results and acknowledged the difficulties and challenges in engaging with SCCs during the pandemic. One suggestion was to re-start annual SCC gatherings.
Strategic plan
The board agreed or strongly agreed that it performed well wit its strategic plan. One observation was that the division’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) — the methods and processes used to manage risks and seize opportunities — required attention, while it was important to tie ERM to strategic planning and reporting.
Meanwhile, trustees agreed or strongly agreed that they performed well in managing division policies. However, one member disagreed that the organization reviewed the policies annually. One suggestion was that holding a policy review should happen “regularly or as needed.”
Director/board relations
The board agreed or strongly agreed that its relationship with education director Ryan Boughen is effective, although one member didn’t know if that was true.
“The board works very well with the director, and vice-versa. Ryan’s teambuilding approach with the board is strong and the board has become better at providing clear direction even when there’s differing views expressed,” the report said.
Advocacy
The board primarily agreed that it performed well with political advocacy, while one trustee strongly agreed and another member disagreed.
The board observed that this area needs further discussion, while from a strategic perspective, trustees said it is important that they have a regular opportunity to set their advocacy plan since emergent issues occur. Another thought was to continue advocacy work with the new joint-use school.
Development
The board agreed or strongly agreed that it performed well with professional development. However, four trustees disagreed that the board develops a yearly plan for development, while two members didn’t know if the board’s annual work plan included development.
Trustees observed that the board has struggled in this area, particularly during budget discussions. Due to this, some members have felt the need to underspend due to these issues. Members also discussed the differences between individual and group development.
Fiscal
The board agreed or strongly agreed that it performed well with fiscal issues, although a couple didn’t know if that was true. Overall, trustees acknowledged that the division has strong leadership in this area.
Group relationships
The board mostly agreed or strongly agreed that it has good interpersonal working relationships, but a couple trustees disagreed and a couple didn’t know in some instances.
Meanwhile, members mostly agreed or strongly agreed that board chair Giselle Wilson carries out her role effectively, although one trustee didn’t fully know.
“The job the chair has done to be inclusive, to focus on the board, and to give guidance and direction is noted and appreciated,” the report added. “The director notes his appreciation for the availability of the chair and their good working relationship.”
The next PSSD board meeting is Sept. 6.
