From the Board of Directors

Elections for new board members will take place at the virtual Election General Meeting (EGM) on 21 April, with nominations due by 6 April.  Being on the board is a great way to get more involved in the school.  If you are thinking about standing, but not sure what being on the board involves, then read on.  If you have more questions, feel free to chat with any of the current board members: Sarah Crites, Aki Georgiou, Andrea Heiland, Sipho Phiri, Kat Simon-Agolory, Rob Munro, and David Burrows.


What does the school board do?
The board is responsible for the long-term direction of AISL, including strategic vision, financial health, governance, legal standing, and campus improvements.  Board members do not involve themselves in the day-to-day operations of the school, which is the job of the Director and staff.
 
What is the make-up of the school board?
AISL’s Articles of Association define the board’s composition.  The board has seven members: the U.S. Ambassador to Zambia appoints the Board Chairperson and one other member, two members are elected from the U.S. government-affiliated community, and three are elected from the general parent community.  Board terms last two years. For 2021-22, we will have one U.S. government-affiliated vacancy and one from the general parent community.
 
How much time does it take?
Board meetings are just once a month during the school year, generally a Wednesday evening.  There is usually some reading/prep work.  Board members also participate on two board committees aligned to board roles, such as finance or building. Committees meet for an hour once a month, in the morning after school drop off.  So, it works out to about an hour a week (yes, that’s all!).
 
What is a board meeting like?
Board meetings are very business-like with diverse views expressed but in a collegial atmosphere.  During the last year, meetings have been virtual or in person depending on the health and safety situation and school policies.
 
Why should you join the board? 
This will be different for everyone: to get more involved in the school where your children spend most of their day; being a long-term resident with young kids and a personal interest in the long-term direction of the school; or wanting to be involved in constant improvement as the educational needs of our children change.
 
How can you get involved?
Please consider nominating yourself or someone you know for one of the upcoming vacancies. Nominees must submit an updated CV and a one or two paragraph biographical statement that can be shared in the Leopard’s Tale by 6 April. Additionally, two other association members must support your nomination (via email). The election will be held at our virtual annual EGM (Election General Meeting) on 21 April. Please send nominations to [email protected].