Governance is one of the most misused and misunderstood words in current popular jargon. Simply put, governance is the act of governing. It relates to decisions that define goals and expectations, grant authority, or verify performance. It consists of either a separate process or as part of a system of decision-making or leadership processes. In independent schools, these processes and systems are typically administered by a Board of Governors (Directors, Trustees, etc.). When discussing governance in individual schools, the quality of governance within the organization is often compared to a standard of good governance such as defined by external bodies such as NAIS, CAIS (Canada) or ECIS.
In the case of any not for profit enterprise, governance relates to arms-length oversight to ensure responsible management, cohesive policies, and high quality organizational performance. In short, Governance defines the ends, it does not determine the means.
The purpose of this website is to provide a forum to share views and resources in support of effective independent school governance. The Governance Corner is a series of blog posts focusing on different aspects and ideas about governance. Your comments are greatly appreciated.
In the case of any not for profit enterprise, governance relates to arms-length oversight to ensure responsible management, cohesive policies, and high quality organizational performance. In short, Governance defines the ends, it does not determine the means.
The purpose of this website is to provide a forum to share views and resources in support of effective independent school governance. The Governance Corner is a series of blog posts focusing on different aspects and ideas about governance. Your comments are greatly appreciated.