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Purpose of Board Orientation
The 2024-25 Board Orientation is designed to prepare board members for effective governance
that prioritizes student outcomes and ensures the district operates with clarity, cohesion, and
purpose. This orientation emphasizes the foundational principles of governance, interpersonal
team dynamics, and strategic district operations. Grounded in shared reflection and actionable
learning, the sessions aim to equip board members with the tools needed to govern ethically,
collaboratively, and with an unwavering focus on educational equity and excellence.
Purpose of Today’s Session
This orientation session aims to equip Board members with a shared understanding of
governance, clarify the distinctions between resolutions and policies, and align on a unified
vision and values. Through strengthening team dynamics and enhancing governance
competencies, the session will prepare the Board to make informed, effective decisions that
drive student outcomes and operational excellence.
Intended Learning Outcomes
1. Deepen Understanding of Governance: Develop a shared understanding of the
Board’s role in governance, emphasizing its critical impact on driving student outcomes
and ensuring the effectiveness of OUSD operations.
2. Enhance Governance Competencies: Expand knowledge and application of
foundational governance concepts, including ethical compliance, effective decision-
making, and adherence to operational protocols.
3. Strengthen Team Dynamics: Foster high-functioning team dynamics grounded in
shared norms of governance, mutual trust, and collective responsibility, ensuring
effective and cohesive Board operations.
4. Align on Shared Values and Vision: Establish a unified language, shared values, and
a collective vision to guide the Board’s collaboration, governance approach, and
decision-making processes.
5. Differentiate Resolutions and Policies: Clearly distinguish between Board resolutions
and policies, understanding their respective purposes in governance. Learn the
procedural steps for considering, drafting, and adopting each, with a focus on intent,
trade-offs, and fiscal impact.
6. Prepare for Policy Review and Development: Gain proficiency in reviewing, drafting,
and adopting policies. Understand how resolutions and policies complement one another
in governance and how to assess their alignment with the Board's vision and goals.