Still time for school trustee nominations

Still time for school trustee nominations

Even though we are in the middle of school holidays, schools around the country are still preparing for the 2010 School Trustee Elections.

There is still time to nominate yourself, or somebody you know, to stand for the 2010 School Trustee Elections. Nominations for the biggest democratic elections in New Zealand close at many schools at noon on 23 April 2010.

National Election Project Manager, Elaine Hines says “Although many people have begun putting their names forward, schools still need more people to stand for election. It’s fantastic to see hundreds of people putting their name forward around the country, but there isn’t long to go before nominations close. I encourage all people in the community who are considering standing for school trusteeship to do so now. The sooner the better!.”

It is helpful for schools if people get their nominations in as soon as possible so schools have an idea of how many potential trustees they have.

More than 15,000 people are needed to form boards in the countries 2,460 state and state-integrated schools. Compare that to the 122 seats in Parliament. Over 100,000 people have taken on the trusteeship roles since self managing schools were introduced in 1989.

Each school has an appointed Returning Officer, and organise their own election, which includes drawing up a voter roll, and having it open to inspections.

It is important to every school to get the candidates with the right mix of skills to stand for election.

“It’s an important position and there are particular skills that all schools need. Some of those skills are passion and energy, people skills, honesty and integrity.” says Elaine.

Financial know-how and strategic thinking are also valuable. Getting a blend of skills among members is important and something for voters to consider.

The theme of the 2010 School Trustee Elections is “Strong leaders make strong schools” says Elaine, and we need the skills and experiences of the wider community to realise our theme – and our vision of all students achieving to a high level.

Trustees do not have to be parents, or have children at the school they stand for. What they do need is a commitment to children and education and the skills to help the school improve student achievement.

Anybody interested in finding out more should contact their local school for further information, or a nomination form.

Key dates
Nominations close Noon 23 April 2010
Polls close Noon 7 May 2010
Results declared 13 May 2010

ENDS

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