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Policy Services

The Policy Maker’s Check-List

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Preparation and Background Policy Origination

  • Do I understand the ISSUE?
  • How has this issue been handled in the past?
  • where does this Issue fit into our MISSION, GOALS, existing POLICY BUDGET, school and/or district IMPROVEMENT PLANS?
  • Do we have a CHOICE? (What is it?)
  • Is this issue covered in our contract language?
  • Is there a NEED for a policy on this issue? (Can it be handled administratively?)
  • WHAT does the board want from this policy?
  • WHO is supposed to do it?
  • Why does the board want this policy?

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At The First Reading/Discussion

  • Does the proposed policy language mention WHO is supposed to do it; WHAT the board wants; and WHY the board wants it?
  • Have the MEASURABLE outcomes or objectives been identified? If YES, what are they? If NO, why not?
  • Review of the administrative procedures, regulations or guidelines (informational).
  • Have possible implementation problems been discussed? i.e., staff, money, complaints, time.
  • Is there a need for a legal review by the board's attorney?

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At The Second Reading/Adoption

  • Has the board reviewed the MEASURABLE outcomes prior to adoption?
  • Has the board received input from the administration and other stakeholders?
  • Did we build into a future board or policy committee agenda a review on how the policy is meeting its intended purpose?

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Policy Oversight

  • Did the superintendent (administrative staff) provide timely reports and updates?
  • Did the report include: (a) the MEASUREABLE outcomes or objectives previously identified, and (b) the information the board requested?
  • Does the policy need to be adjusted, or is there a need to re-evaluate the measurable outcomes? 
  • Do the administrative procedures need to be adjusted or updated?