Legal Authority and Responsibilities
The Board of Directors is the highest legal authority at St. Andrew’s, operating within the framework of the school’s Memorandum and Articles of Association. It holds ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the school fulfills its mission of educational excellence. While the Principal oversees the day-to-day administration, the Board provides strategic oversight and guidance, ensuring compliance with legal and financial obligations  .
Key responsibilities of the Board include:
- Approving major legal and financial decisions.
- Electing and evaluating the Principal as the Chief Executive Officer.
- Ensuring adherence to government regulations and statutes.
- Establishing and reviewing policies in areas such as fiscal management, personnel, and instructional programmes.
Board Composition and Leadership
The Board is composed of elected members who serve for a maximum of six consecutive years. Members are not remunerated for their work but dedicate their time and expertise to advancing the mission of the school. Key officer roles include the Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer, each providing critical leadership in governance.
The Chairman serves as the primary representative of the Board, fostering collaboration among members and with the Principal. These officers are elected annually by the Board and work closely to ensure that the Board’s actions align with the school’s strategic goals .
To provide more specialised and in-depth governance, the Board delegates certain responsibilities to four sub-committees. These allow for deeper analysis and decision-making in their respective domains.
Board Meetings and Decision-Making
The Board meets regularly, with at least eight meetings held annually. These meetings are governed by the rules specified in the Memorandum and Articles of Association and serve as the platform for strategic discussions and decision-making. Attendance is limited to elected or appointed Board members, the Principal, and other invitees approved by the Chairman, ensuring focused and effective governance.
During these meetings, the Board reviews financial reports, strategic initiatives, and policy updates. Decisions are made collectively, with individual Board members exercising authority only during official meetings.
Board-Principal Relationship
The relationship between the Board and the Principal is rooted in mutual respect and clear delineation of roles. While the Board focuses on policy-making and strategic oversight, the Principal is responsible for implementing these policies and managing the school’s operations. This delegation of executive powers allows the Principal the freedom to lead effectively, while the Board ensures accountability and alignment with the school’s vision .
Continuous Improvement and Self-Evaluation
To maintain high standards of governance, the Board conducts an annual self-evaluation. This process is collaborative and constructive, with the aim of improving efficiency and effectiveness. The evaluation focuses on the Board as a whole rather than on individual members, ensuring that its collective performance aligns with the school’s strategic objectives .
The results of this evaluation are used to set new goals and strategies for the following year. This practice underscores the Board’s commitment to growth and excellence in governance.
Policy Review and Transparency
The Board ensures that its policies are continuously reviewed and updated to reflect the school’s evolving needs. The Principal plays an active role in identifying outdated policies and recommending revisions. A master copy of the policy manual is maintained electronically and is accessible to the school community, fostering transparency and consistency in decision-making.
Commitment to the Future
The governance structure at St. Andrew’s International School is designed to safeguard its legacy while paving the way for future growth and innovation. Through the dedication of its Board of Directors, the school continues to uphold its mission of building a diverse community of lifelong learners, guided by the principles of ethics and excellence.
By working collaboratively with the Principal, staff, parents, and the wider school community, the Board ensures that St. Andrew’s remains a leader in education in The Bahamas and beyond.
For more information about the governance of St. Andrew’s International School, please contact us.