Grant Reese - Rewarding role for all trustees

Grant Reese - Rewarding role for all trustees

Grant Reese has three daughters and wanted to be more involved with their education than just dropping them off at the school gates. Furthermore, Grant wanted to be on the school board to be able to contribute back to the community and the education success of all children.

"I want to encourage them to follow their passions and to be all they can be."

He has continued this dedication and has now been the Chair of Korokoro School for 10 years, also joining St Oran’s College as the board treasurer in 2013.

The experience has been a rewarding one for Grant, seeing students that come through the school develop and progress on to new challenges.

"Seeing staff that I have been involved in hiring at the school and watching them develop into great educators and passionate teachers, gives me great satisfaction," he says.

"I have also challenged myself with ongoing learning and development, and I have gained a greater understanding of governance and leadership."

"I have found going to the NZSTA conference over the years very rewarding. Meeting other trustees and seeing their passion for their school and trusteeship. The pride and commitment to their students is very inspiring."

Grant has been instrumental in re-establishing the Wellington/Wairarapa regional executive of NZSTA. "It’s rewarding to be able to help other trustees in our region and see them succeed on their trustee journey."

There are challenges to the role. "Keeping up to date with relevant legislation, and balancing that with the training and networking, as well as finding the time to spend with my children and focus on their educational success," is one that Grant readily acknowledges. It’s one that many parents will identify with.

Grant is standing again for the 2016 trustee elections and urges others to do the same. "Give to your school and community, and leave a legacy for your children’s children to come into a school and community where great governance drives great success."

Election Project Manager Janet Kelly says schools need informed people with a balance of skills and experiences to stand for election as trustees.

Parents, caregivers and people from the wider community can be nominated for election to a school board. It is important that the board reflects its community.

"We need people who can make a positive difference for their local school. A well run school board has the power to lift student achievement - which will then benefit the whole community", she says.

"Anyone interested in more information about trusteeship should contact their local school."

The call for nominations for school trustees will be happening for most schools by the 6th May and closes on the 20th May.

ENDS

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