In this episode, we explore one of the most important transitions for any charter school board: onboarding new members. Serving on a governing board is a big responsibility, and how new members are welcomed, trained, and supported makes all the difference.

We’ll cover:

• The four core oversight roles every board member must understand
• The difference between governance and management—and why it matters
• What school-specific knowledge new members need to be effective
• Key compliance steps like background checks and conflict disclosures
• The importance of ongoing training, self-education, and mentorship

Whether you’re onboarding new members or stepping into board service yourself, this episode offers a clear roadmap for building confident, mission-driven governance from day one.

In this episode, we explore why Robert’s Rules of Order remain one of the most effective tools for running structured, fair, and efficient board meetings. Originally published in 1876, this system of parliamentary procedure helps charter school boards stay focused, transparent, and compliant with Utah’s Open and Public Meetings Act.

We’ll cover:

• How Robert’s Rules support orderly discussion and decision-making
• The role of the Chair in guiding meetings and maintaining decorum
• What motions, seconds, amendments, and votes look like in practice
• Helpful tools like “Point of Information,” “Call the Question,” and “Orders of the Day”
• How Robert’s Rules align with public notice and agenda requirements under OPMA
• Tips for smaller boards and common-sense corrections when things go off track

Whether you’re new to board service or just need a refresher, this episode will help you understand how Robert’s Rules create clarity, fairness, and accountability in every meeting.

Culture is the heartbeat of a charter school—it’s how your mission comes to life in classrooms, hallways, and community events. In this episode, we explore how boards and school leaders can intentionally shape a culture that reflects their values and strengthens student success.

We’ll cover:

• How to translate your mission into daily practices
• The role of leadership in modeling and reinforcing culture
• Ways to embed values into hiring, discipline, and communication
• Strategies for engaging families and building community alignment
• How to protect and evolve your culture over time

Whether you’re launching a new school or refining an existing one, this episode offers practical tools to help your culture thrive—from the inside out.

In this episode, we focus on a topic that’s essential for ethical and legal governance: conflicts of interest on charter school boards.  As a board member, understanding what qualifies as a conflict—and how to prevent it—is key to maintaining public trust and compliance.

We’ll cover:

• What a conflict of interest is and why perception matters
• Why employees cannot serve on the board under Utah law
• How to identify, disclose, and manage conflicts appropriately
• What to include in a strong conflict of interest policy
• Best practices for prevention, training, and board recruitment

Charter school boards are stewards of public funds and community trust. This episode will help you build clear boundaries, foster transparency, and keep your governance focused on what matters most: student success.

In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful tools a charter school board can use to increase its impact: board committees. When structured with purpose, committees help boards go deeper, move faster, and make smarter decisions—without overwhelming volunteers.

We’ll cover:

• Why committees matter for oversight, strategy, and engagement
• Four foundational committees every board should consider
• How to structure committees around your school’s priorities
• Tips for assigning members, setting expectations, and reporting effectively
• Common pitfalls to avoid, like unclear roles or too many committees

Done right, committees turn board meetings from information overload into focused, strategic action. Whether you’re building new committees or refining existing ones, this episode will help your board lead with clarity and purpose.

In this episode, we tackle a foundational, but often misunderstood, topic in charter school leadership: the difference between governance and management. Who makes the big decisions? Who runs the day-to-day? And how do boards and administrators work together to keep the school mission-centered and future-ready?

We’ll break down:

• What the charter school board is responsible for—and what it’s not
• How school administration executes the board’s vision while managing daily operations
• Why clear separation of roles builds trust, accountability, and long-term success
• Common pitfalls like micromanagement and blurred boundaries
• Practical tips for maintaining a healthy governance structure

Whether you’re a board member, school leader, or just curious about how charter schools operate, this episode will help clarify roles, strengthen partnerships, and keep your school thriving.

In this episode, we break down one of the most critical roles on a charter school board: the Board Treasurer. While they don’t manage day-to-day finances, the treasurer plays a vital role in safeguarding the school’s financial health through oversight, accountability, and clear communication.

We’ll cover:

• What financial oversight looks like in practice
• How the treasurer partners with the director, finance staff, and auditors
• Key responsibilities around budgeting, audits, and compliance
• Internal controls that protect public funds
• Tips for translating financial reports into plain language for the full board

Whether you’re serving as treasurer or supporting one, this episode will help you understand how strong financial leadership supports transparency, stability, and long-term success for your school.

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on one of the most essential—and often underappreciated—roles on a charter school governing board: the Board Secretary. Far more than a note-taker, the Secretary is the guardian of transparency, legal compliance, and organizational memory.

We’ll walk through:

• Core responsibilities before, during, and after meetings
• How to prepare and post agendas, minutes, and recordings in line with Utah’s Open & Public Meetings Act (OPMA)
• Best practices for board packets, documentation, and public notice
• What’s required for closed sessions and electronic meetings
• Long-term recordkeeping and annual compliance duties

Whether you’re currently serving as Secretary or supporting someone who is, this episode offers practical guidance to help your board stay organized, compliant, and trusted by the community.

In this episode, we explore one of the most influential roles on a charter school governing board: the board chair and vice chair. Far more than a meeting managers, these leaders set the tone for governance, lead with vision, and help the board stay focused on mission, oversight, and accountability.

We’ll cover:

• How the chair facilitates effective, inclusive meetings
• The four key oversight areas every chair must lead: policy, academics, finance, and strategy
• The importance of mentoring, board development, and supporting the school leader
• Why the vice-chair is more than a backup—and how this role builds leadership continuity
• Practical ways board members can support their leadership team

Whether you’re currently serving as chair, vice-chair, or considering future leadership, this episode offers a clear roadmap for building a strong, mission-driven board that helps your school thrive.

In this episode we’re going to focus on how a board chair and board members can run efficient and effective meetings while staying compliant with Utah law.

We’ll cover:

• What OPMA says about where board business should happen (hint: not in email threads or shared docs)
• The role of the chair in keeping meetings focused, timely, and transparent
• How board members can prepare, engage, and contribute meaningfully
• Why sending packets early and sticking to the agenda builds trust
• Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
• Real-world examples of meetings that work—and ones that don’t

Whether you’re leading the meeting or just taking your seat at the table, this episode will help you model openness, accountability, and teamwork. Because when your meetings run well, your board serves your school and community at its best.

In this episode will cover a foundational piece of Utah’s Open and Public Meetings Act, how to properly post agendas, run your meetings, and document them afterward.

Here's what you will learn:

• Where and when to post your meeting notice
• What qualifies as an emergency meeting (and what doesn’t)
• How to build a clear, actionable agenda
• What must be included in your minutes and recordings
• Timelines for posting materials to the Utah Public Notice Website
• Best practices for transparency, public comment, and meeting flow

We’ll also share real-world examples of how good posting builds trust—and how vague agendas can backfire. Whether you’re a seasoned board member or just getting started, this episode will help you run meetings that are compliant, predictable, and community-centered.

Closed sessions can be one of the trickiest parts of the Utah Open & Public Meetings Act (OPMA), and it’s essential for charter school boards to get them right. In this episode, we take a clear, practical look at when closed sessions are legally allowed, what can—and can’t—be discussed, and how to document them properly.

We’ll walk through:

• The five legally defined reasons for entering a closed session
• What Utah law says about interviews, contracts, and tough conversations
• The step-by-step process for entering and exiting a closed session
• What to record, what to seal, and who can access it
• Consequences for improper disclosure and how to avoid them

Closed sessions aren’t a way to sidestep transparency—they’re a tool for protecting sensitive information when used correctly. This episode will help your board stay compliant, build trust, and handle confidential matters with confidence.

In this episode, we dive into a topic that touches every charter school board: how to legally incorporate electronic or remote meetings. As virtual participation becomes a routine part of board operations, it’s essential to understand the legal framework that governs it.

We’ll cover:

• What Utah law requires for remote or electronic meetings
• How to ensure transparency and public access
• Practical tips for keeping your community engaged while staying compliant

Whether you're hosting hybrid meetings or fully remote sessions, this episode will help you navigate the rules and reinforce public trust.

In this episode we take a high-level look at the Utah Open & Public Meetings Act—commonly known as OPMA. Designed to promote transparency and public trust, OPMA outlines how public bodies must conduct their meetings.

Tune in for a 30,000-foot overview of:

• The purpose and intent behind the law
• Who OPMA applies to
• What’s at stake when the law isn’t followed

Whether you're a new charter school board member or a seasoned leader, this episode sets the foundation for understanding your legal responsibilities and building a culture of openness.