What is a key role of school boards in district administration?

A key role of school boards in district administration is to establish policies and approve budgets. This function is crucial as it provides the framework for the educational direction and funding of the district. By setting policies, school boards ensure that the educational objectives align with state and federal laws, community values, and the needs of students. Budget approval is equally important, as it allocates resources necessary for implementing those policies and supporting educational programs, staff, and infrastructure.

Establishing policies allows school boards to address various critical areas such as education quality, school safety, and equity, thereby impacting student outcomes and community trust. Approving budgets allows for accountability in how public funds are used, which is essential for maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency in the district.

The other options relate to functions that are typically outside the purview of school boards. Daily school operations are managed by district administrators or school principals, and conducting teacher evaluations is usually the responsibility of school administrators, not the board. Teaching students directly falls squarely within the role of educators, not school boards. Thus, the role of establishing policies and approving budgets encapsulates the essential governance function of school boards, ensuring strategic leadership in the district.