School Based Decision Making

School Based decision making is a process/tool used by groups and includes all of these elements:

• A commonly held, student-centered vision
• A climate of trust
• A respect for diverse ideas and interests
• An open dialogue and debate
• A shared leadership, accountability, authority, and responsibility
• An actively involved, broad-based representation of employees, parents, students, and the community.

The goal of School Based decision making is to ensure there is the staff, parent, and community involvement needed to accomplish the district mission through its Strategic Plan. The mission is "To provide a quality education that prepares all children for a successful future." All Jeffco schools are evaluating how they use the School Based decision making process to ensure they are achieving accreditation expectations.

What kinds of decisions are made through this process?

In the life of a school, hundreds of decisions are made each day. Some decisions, such as emergencies, must be made immediately by the principal. Other decisions may involve only the staff. An example might be how to use staff development days. Still other decisions involve staff and parents working in a collaborative group.

Decisions that may involve parents in the School Based decision making process fall into a number of categories including, but not limited to, the following examples:

• Instructional: Learning resources; student awards & recognition; enrichment activities.
• Resources: Budget development and evaluation; grant writing; employee recognition; recruiting, selecting, recognizing and using volunteers and community resources.
• Governance and management: Discipline plan; attendance policy; community relations and communications; special events; scheduling; school-based fees; school safety issues.

What types of decisions are not made through this process?

The district is bound by employee contracts, Board of Education policies, and federal, state and local laws. These factors place restrictions on the decision-making authority of staff and parent groups. Some examples include hiring and firing of employees, employee evaluations and student discipline.

How can I get involved in School Based decision making at my school?

• Talk to your principal or parent group leaders to learn what groups (accountability, school improvement committee, etc.) are using a School Based decision making process.
• Attend a meeting and determine whether the group interests you.
• Find out how to become a member of the group and talk to the principal or chair about joining. Read more.