Recruiting & Retaining Dynamic Board Members

About the Webinar:

We apologize that the audio for this session was not usable, and therefore we are unable to provide the video recording. However, the presentation slides are available below.

In this session, Mark Cannon outlined practical strategies for building and sustaining dynamic charter school boards. He emphasized three core practices: strengthening board composition, making meetings meaningful, and cultivating ties between the board and the school. Strong recruitment processes focus on aligning skills and mission, ensuring diversity, and leveraging a governance or nominating committee to guide selection, onboarding, and succession planning. Cannon stressed that recruiting the right people—and letting go of those who no longer contribute effectively—is central to maintaining a high-functioning board.

Beyond recruitment, Cannon encouraged schools to rethink board meetings to keep them engaging and impactful. Strategies include using consent agendas to streamline routine approvals, focusing time on high-level strategy, and incorporating “mission moments” that remind members why their work matters. He also emphasized the importance of healthy board-school relationships, built on trust, transparency, and open dialogue. Finally, Cannon addressed common challenges, such as managing difficult personalities or persistent pessimists, offering tools to redirect energy toward productive contributions and maintain a culture of respect and accountability.