2019 Board Information Night Summary

Thanks to those who were able to attend Board Information Night on October 2nd. The following is a summary of what was discussed at the meeting for those unable to come.

The board is a group of people who bring a willingness to dedicate their time and expertise to further the mission and vision of St. Catherine’s.  Founded by Dominican sisters, St. Catherine’s embodies the Dominican charism and the 4 Dominican pillars of study, prayer, community and ministry.  All who feel called by the Dominican charism and the St. Catherine’s community as a whole are in formation as sponsors of the school and as such are responsible for the mission and vision to be preserved, built upon and expanded.

Governance

• Governing board charged with the strategic, long-term protection and strengthening of the financial, physical, and programmatic assets of St. Catherine’s.
• Bylaws were recently amended to expand the Board and are posted on the school’s website
• Board of 9, at most 3 parents, at least 3 persons related to religious orders, and 3 alumni or persons not currently affiliated with the school (e.g., alumni, persons with special skills of use to school)
• Voting terms of 3 years, with possibility of reappointment for an additional 3 year term
• In January the board puts out an “Invitation to Serve” letter to the community if positions are available
• Board and committee positions are filled through a discernment process
• Board votes on appointment of new members

Role of SCM Board of Directors

• Strategic planning and broad policy development
• Financial assurance and oversight
• Advancement
• Select, evaluate and support Head of School
• The Board does not intervene in the administration and operation of the school (including areas such as curriculum development and staff selection), nor does it serve as a grievance committee.

Strategic Planning

• A strategic plan is developed every 5 years. The Strategic Plan’s foundation is SCM's Mission Statement
• SCM worked with Sterling Associates to develop our current plan. This was written with input from all stakeholders including parents, students, faculty, staff, administration, alumni, alumni parents, and outside experts
• Currently we are in the 5-year implementation phase of our Strategic Plan
• Enhancements to the school and its programs are often driven by our community through the strategic planning process. Establishment of the SCM Adolescent Community and High School were a direct result of this process instigated by parent and student interest 
• Updates will be shared this fall on the Implementation phase
• The SCM Strategic Plan can be found on our website

Finance Committee

• Meets on a monthly basis
• Responsible for the annual budgeting process
• Supports the annual external audit
• Monthly Finance Committee Reports - monthly actual vs. budget comparisons

Fundraising/Facilities

• Capital Campaigns are the way to fund the construction of space requirements
• Gratitude for past families who funded the “Castle” location, which was ultimately sold and funded the current location of St. Catherine’s
• Schools are always in a Capital Campaign or planning for another one
• The next plan is to look at creating space for our expanding Adolescent Community and High School

A Few of the Questions Asked at the Meeting

Q:  Is the board considering diversity when looking for new members?

A:  Yes.  There is a Board Profile questionnaire that will help the board identify characteristics of potential board members.

Q:  Should there be an AMI trained person on the board?

A:  The AMI standards are held through the consultation process with an outside consultant coming every 3 years to observe practices, examine materials and give feedback. The Board is always looking to enlist members who can provide a wide variety of skills including those who can facilitate introductions to the greater community as fundraising is pivotal component of Board work.