Latest news with #NewZealandSchoolBoardsAssociation
Otago Daily Times
3 days ago
- Politics
- Otago Daily Times
Combined model for school boards sought
Catholic schools in Oamaru are awaiting government sign-off to combine primary and secondary school boards in the town into one body. New Zealand School Boards Association (NZSBA) Otago regional executive chairman and St Kevin's College board member Eugen Dupu said over the past 18 months, St Kevin's College and St Joseph's School — both state-integrated Catholic schools with the same proprietor and special character — had been exploring the possibility of a shared governance model. "Through wide consultation — including input from both school communities and independent facilitators — there has been strong support for a single combined board, while maintaining the individual identity and character of each school," he said. The proposed model would bring more cohesive leadership, as well as strengthened Catholic stewardship and enhanced students and whanau support, he said. "We are now in the final stages of working with the Ministry of Education, with guidance from the NZSBA, to formalise the new structure reflecting the overwhelming support received from both school communities." The school hopes the changes will be in time for the school board elections, taking place nationwide in September. Mr Dupu said school boards strengthened governance and achievement, reflected communities, monitored student wellbeing and encouraged local decision-making. "A well-governed school benefits the whole community. Better education leads to stronger social and economic outcomes. "Active community participation strengthens democracy and ensures schools are responsive to the needs of all tamariki and whānau. "Strong school governance isn't just about policies and procedures — it's about shaping environments where every child can thrive," he said. "When communities lead with purpose, schools flourish." He anticipates the St Kevin's elections will be a "positive opportunity to renew and refresh community involvement". This year, NZSBA has launched its "Get on Board" campaign before the three-yearly school board elections. NZSBA president Meredith Kennet said school boards played a critical role in our education system, making decisions that affect students, teachers and whānau across the country. "This campaign is about making sure all New Zealanders understand the value of community participation in their children's education — and feel empowered to take part," she said. Get on Board 2025 has rolled out additional resources for schools and boards, overhauled its website, and increased advertising across all platforms. Online workshops and webinars are also available on the NZSBA website, along with live sessions and online courses. Waitaki Valley School principal Jane Severinsen is looking forward to welcoming a new board of passionate parents and community members in the upcoming election. "It gives the chance for parents and the community to have a voice while guiding strategic direction," she said. "It's a wonderful opportunity for the school and local community." The school has rallied behind the new campaign, using "Get on Board" posters to advertise the election. Ardgowan Primary School principal Ryan Fraser also expects a positive election. With three positions open for the next board term, the elections would be important to the rural school. "School boards are the voice of the community and it's important to have a diverse range of voices representing." The triennial elections are scheduled from September 3 to September 19. Nominations close 35 days before each school's chosen election date. People can visit the NZSBA elections website to start the nomination process or nominate someone else. — Claire Taylor
Scoop
17-07-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
Campaign Launched To Boost School Board Participation
Te Whakarōpūtanga Kaitiaki Kura o Aotearoa - the New Zealand School Boards Association (NZSBA) has officially launched its national campaign, Get on Board 2025, to mobilise participation in the upcoming triennial school board elections. The campaign aims to increase nominations and voter turnout for school boards (formerly boards of trustees) across Aotearoa, encouraging Kiwis to step forward and help shape the future of their local schools. Created in-house, Get on Board 2025 builds on previous campaigns and brings a fresh new look, modernised resources and a digital-first approach designed to reach more prospective board members than ever before. "School boards play a critical role in our education system. They make decisions that affect students, teachers and whānau across the country," says NZSBA President Meredith Kennett. "This campaign is about making sure all New Zealanders understand the value of community participation in their children's education - and feel empowered to take part." With updated messaging, vibrant visuals and a strong focus on video storytelling and social media, the 2025 campaign is designed to highlight the value of school board service and the impact local governance has on student success. Key features of the Get on Board 2025 campaign include: A new campaign identity and refreshed resources for schools and boards, including digital and print-ready assets. In collaboration with Foxton-based animator Fraser Munro, a promotional video (also translated into te reo Māori). A redeveloped website - - built by our digital partner Somar featuring improved accessibility, clearer content and easier navigation for prospective candidates and voters. Advertising across print, radio and digital (as well as TV via Whakaata Māori). It sits alongside Mātauranga Iwi Leaders Group's Whakapapa Decisions campaign to increase Māori participation in the elections. The triennial elections are scheduled for September 2025. Nominations for most schools are now open, and NZSBA encourages everyone who is passionate about their school community to consider standing or nominating someone they know.
Scoop
10-07-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
School Boards Conference Opens In Christchurch
More than 700 school board members, education leaders and sector experts are converging on Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre this weekend for the 35th Annual Te Whakarōputanga Kaitiaki Kura o Aotearoa - New Zealand School Boards Association (NZSBA) Conference, the largest event of its kind dedicated to school governance in Aotearoa New Zealand. The conference opens today under the theme Creating a Difference, reflecting the crucial role that boards play in shaping the future of schools and student success across the country. Over the next three days delegates will take part in a wide-ranging programme of keynote presentations, workshops and networking events designed to equip school board members with the knowledge, tools and inspiration to lead effectively. Highlights include keynote addresses by Minister of Education Hon Erica Stanford, education thought leader Professor Mere Berryman and renowned neuroscience educator Kathryn Berkett. Alongside the learning programme, the conference also provides opportunities for connection and celebration, including the Gallagher Insurance Gala Dinner themed Once Upon a Change, which will bring delegates together to recognise the impact of governance done well. NZSBA President Meredith Kennett says this year's event comes at a pivotal moment for education governance. "We're seeing major shifts across the sector - from changing legislation to new technologies and increasing expectations of transparency and engagement. This conference is about supporting our boards to rise to these challenges and continue to make a positive difference in their communities." The conference runs from Friday 11 July to Sunday 13 July.
