Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does GVA have a Board of Directors?
A: Global Village Academy is a Charter School, which is a public school authorized to operate outside the authority of the local school district Board of Education. Charter Schools must provide their own governing Board to make the same kind of decisions that a school district might make.
Q: Who can serve on the Board?
A: Any adult 18 or older can serve on the Board. Board candidates must be able to successfully pass a criminal background check and must be recommended by the Leadership Development Committee.
Q: How much time does it take every month to serve on the Board?
A: It depends on how involved the Board members are, and whether there are any special projects or circumstances. For those on multiple committees or are working on large school projects, it may be as much as 8-16 hours per month. Most of the time the Board members spend 4-6 hours per month working on school business or attending meetings.
Q: Is there training for Board members?
A: All Board members receive initial training when they join the Board. The training sessions cover a wide range of topics including the fundamentals of Board governance, school funding, and budgeting and policy. Board members also receive ongoing training and can attend state and local charter school conferences. Training costs are paid for by the school.
Q: What kind of skills and background are needed to be a Board member?
A: The Board does not have specific educational or experience requirements. Board members are selected based on the skills and diversity that they can bring to GVA. Often Board members have degrees and/or experience in Education, Business, Finance and Accounting, Human Resources, Legal, Marketing, Real Estate, or Construction. A diverse Board is essential to having a successful school.
