"It’s a concept that we need to emphasize and talk about more," Engberg said. "When boards and administrators are on the same page about the proper role and function of policy, it benefits the entire school system."

To start the discussion, ASBSD launched Policy Matters, a special publication that presents sample policies on timely and emerging policy issues. What makes Policy Matters unique, Engberg says, is that it also dives into the thought behind developing policies.

"We discuss policy-setting from research to evaluation," Engberg said. "And we talk about the differences between policy and regulation, and how board policy should set direction but not cross the line into administration."

As Policy Matters works to build a knowledge base, ASBSD took steps to develop more powerful tools. ASBSD’s Policy Reference Manual was converted to an online format, allowing members to access sample policies linked to the laws the policy addresses.

"The online manual is well-organized and sample policy language is easy to find," Engberg said. "It’s like any new technology – once you get familiar with how to use it, it’s hard to think of doing it any other way."

Together, the two informative resources – Policy Matters and the online ASBSD Policy Reference manual – make up one level of ASBSD Policy Services, called the Communicator Tier, designed to provide a steady stream of information regarding policy.

Engberg says the entry level subscription service is appropriately named, because it’s a dedicated line of communication that helps districts maintain a policy-setting culture.

"Turnover on the board or in administration can impact the quality of a district’s policy manual," Engberg said. "The best way to ensure consistency over time is to make policy an ongoing priority, and the Communicator Tier is designed to help districts move in that direction."

Other South Dakota school districts may need higher levels of service to create that policy-setting culture. The final two levels of ASBSD Policy Services offer more direct involvement with school boards and administrators.

"We understand that districts are at different points when it comes their policy manuals," Engberg said. "For those districts, we’ll work with them to review their manual, and if necessary, create an entirely new set of policies."

Since ASBSD has started offering the hands-on services, districts of all sizes have enlisted ASBSD’s help. "Districts have told us that sometimes it takes an objective, outside voice to sit down with the board and discuss policy," Engberg said. "So we offer something to assist those districts as well."

Engberg understands that ASBSD Policy Services are relatively new, and that the membership will play a role in how the services are offered and delivered in the future.

For now though, he is pleased with how they are being received and is excited that the services are in demand.

"More of our members are talking about policy and the difference between governance and administration," Engberg said. "And those discussions are real learning opportunities."

Editors Note: Services Spotlight highlights recent initiatives to improve ASBSD member services.