WSSDA's Boards of Distinction Awards program honors school boards that demonstrate understanding of their leadership role and follow through on their responsibilities, while showing concern for the educational excellence and equity for all students.

The Boards of Distinction Awards program is based on the Washington School Board Standards. These voluntary standards identify the elements of good governance and effective board leadership as drawn from best practices and current research. They provide shared understanding of what constitutes good governance. They also validate and affirm the importance of the school board’s role in ensuring student success.

The Boards of Distinction program invites your board/superintendent team to:

• Discuss how your board’s actions align with effective board governance practices
• Document your focus on educational excellence and equity for all students
• Identify how your board creates conditions for student and staff success
• Share your commitment to continuous improvement and accountability

High performing boards never “arrive.” This program provides a multi-year approach to demonstrating alignment with the Washington School Board Standards, focusing on five benchmarks per year. Review the essay schedule and apply annually.

Awards

Boards of Distinction applications must be completed as a collaborative effort of the board/superintendent team, and are rated using a point system.

• Each board which meets the criteria will receive recognition as a Board of Distinction.
• One board will be selected to receive the highest distinction as WSSDA Board of the Year.
• Boards receiving recognition for five consecutive years will be honored with a special achievement award.