about us : board of trustees : faqs

Board of trustees faqs

What is the role of the Board of Trustees?

The primary responsibility of the Board is to ensure the long-term viability of the school and its mission. It is in place to monitor the financial health of the institution, fundraise, make strategic plans, and select and support the Head of School. Sea Crest is subject to state and federal laws governing non-profit organizations, and relies on its Board of Trustees to assure its conformance with those laws.

The Board does not get involved in the day-to-day affairs of the school, disciplinary or personnel issues, or admissions decisions—which are the responsibility of the Head of School—unless called upon to serve as a court of appeal.

What do the Trustees do?

In addition to attending regular board meetings, individual trustees support and promote the school’s mission within Sea Crest and greater community. Trustees sit on or chair board committees charged with doing the work necessary to the realization of the school’s long-term goals. Many trustees provide professional services which would otherwise cost the school tens—if not hundreds—of thousands of dollars per year. All board members actively fundraise, and lead by example in charitable giving.

Who are the Trustees?

Currently there are 13 board members—11 elected trustees in addition to the Parent Association President and Head of School who are ex-officio members of the board. Nine are parents of SCS students, and live on the coast from Montara to Half Moon Bay. Six are women, seven are men. Terms are three years long, and members must be invited back to the board at the end of each term. There are no term limits, but no current board member has served more than two terms.

Who can be on the Board of Trustees?

Sea Crest is actively seeking trustees from outside the school community. However, as at most independent schools, Sea Crest must also recruit from its parent body. Unless an individual possesses specific professional expertise of which the Board is in immediate need, nominees have typically served on a Board sub-committee for a year or more, and have a proven commitment to Sea Crest and its mission.

What about conflicts of interest on the Board of Trustees?

During orientation, trustees are given the NAIS Principles of Good Practice, and parent-trustees are made aware that their role is to ensure the health of Sea Crest for the years beyond the enrollment of their own children. In keeping with the Guiding Principle “We are each others keepers”, any attempt by a trustee to influence the direction of Sea Crest for personal gain at the expense of the school would not be tolerated.