Before joining the board of trustees in Dallas, I served as a principal and system-level administrator. I’ve seen governance from both sides of the table — and I can tell you: great school systems require great boards.
Too often, we treat the board-superintendent relationship as a formality. But when that relationship breaks down, so does the system. Trust erodes. Priorities scatter. Students suffer. When reality fails to meet community expectations, the result is disappointment. A strong board knows how to manage these expectations and create clarity.
Here are three principles I’ve learned about strong governance:
1. Trust Is Built, Not Assumed
Superintendents need to invest in intentional relationship-building with each board member. That doesn’t mean backroom deals — it means open lines of communication, frequent check-ins, and honest dialogue.
If you’re only talking to your board when there’s a crisis, you’re doing it wrong.
2. Clarity Over Chaos
One of the best things we did at Dallas ISD was work with the superintendent to define shared goals. That gave the board a north star — and gave district staff permission to focus. It was necessary for the board to prioritize its time by focusing on outcomes rather than debating lingering distractions.
Superintendents who succeed don’t try to please everyone. They work with the board to get clear on priorities, then cascade those priorities through the system. Actions speak louder than words. Until the board acts in a way that focuses on priorities, the system can’t do so.
3. Focus on the Long Game
It’s easy to get caught up in the headlines or the latest controversy. But board members — and superintendents — are most effective when they keep their eyes on long-term student outcomes.
I often encourage districts to adopt a governance calendar: scheduled updates on key goals, community engagement windows, board development retreats. These structures help keep the board focused, aligned, and productive.
Getting Started
If you want better student results, start with better adult relationships. School system governance matters more than most people think — and it’s too important to leave to chance.
👉 Book a free strategic consultation with the Together Network for Transformation to discuss governance, board dynamics, or strategic alignment for your school system.
