Trustee Elections - Background Information
Background:
The trustee elections are the largest democratic event in the country, involving the election of a board of trustees for
2,500 state and state-integrated New Zealand schools.
The event is held every three years and this is the seventh election since the introduction of self-managed schools in
1989.
More than 13,000 people are needed to form boards and more than 90,000 people have taken on the trusteeship role since
1989.
The theme of the campaign is make a difference for our schools – asking New Zealanders with a balance of skills and
experiences to take up this critical role in their school community.
Trustees do not have to be parents nor have children at the school they stand for.
Trustees need to have a commitment to children and education and the skills to ultimately help the school lift student
achievement.
The board of trustees has overall responsibility for the governance of a school. It sets the educational goals and
strategic direction of the school.
Boards can choose how they want their school to develop. They ensure that students are achieving, that the school
complies with the law and is a responsible employer.
Trustees support the principal and staff.
Ongoing training and support is offered to trustees to help them in their role.
Key dates in 2007
Nominations called by March 1
Nominations close Noon, March 15
Polls close Noon, March 29
Results declared April 4
Ends