School boards play a vital role in ensuring students have access to quality public education. Washington state sets aside the month of January as a time to recognize the people who volunteer their time to this valuable elected position.
Read Gov. Jay Inslee’s proclamation for School Board Recognition Month
“We are very, very fortunate in this district to have such great leadership from our school board members,” said Superintendent Denny Waters. “Their passion, dedication and commitment to our students and staff and this district is so appreciated.”
Battle Ground Public Schools is served by five board members and two student representatives. The director districts are split into five geographic areas based on population . Each board member serves a four-year term. Student representatives serve two years, starting in their junior year. In addition to attending board meetings, directors hire, supervise and evaluate the superintendent; set the mission and strategic goals for the district; approve the budget; serve on numerous committees; attend school and community events; and spend time engaging with community members in a variety of ways.
“It is important for the community to know that we serve them first and foremost,” said District 3 Director Ted Champine, who was elected to the board in 2021. “Community attendance and participation at events designed to hear their concerns, requests and insight is vital to our success.”
Board members spend, on average, 10 hours per week on district business; more if they serve on committees or leadership positions. They receive a small compensation that some chose to waive.
“Serving on the school board has been rewarding,” said Champine. “Interacting with students at events, tours and board meetings is by far the most enjoyable aspect. We are awarded the opportunity to see the outcome of our decisions, learn from them and improve where we can.”
The Battle Ground school board has received the Washington State School Directors’ Association’s Board of Distinction Award three out of the past six years. More information about each board member, their contact information and how to view or attend board meetings is available on the district website.