Understanding School Governance at Wā Ora Montessori
Rod Webster – Board of Trustees Member
At Wā Ora Montessori School, governance is about nurturing our unique learning environment. If you’ve ever wondered what the Board of Trustees does — or considered joining one day, this article is for you.
What the Board Does
Boards of Trustees govern state and state-integrated schools in Aotearoa. While the Principal leads the day-to-day operations, the Board provides oversight and direction.
At Wā Ora, the Board includes elected parent reps, a staff representative, the Principal, and sometimes co-opted members. Together, we:
– Set the school’s strategic direction
– Maintain and review school policies
– Ensure sound financial stewardship
– Appoint and support the Principal
– Represent the voice of the community
– Uphold a safe, inclusive, values-aligned school culture.
All of this is guided by our Montessori philosophy, and our school’s purpose – to support each child’s physical, moral, social, emotional and intellectual development so they can be the best they can be, believe in their intrinsic worth and have a positive influence on the world.
Montessori and Governance
Montessori education emphasises observation, responsiveness, and respect — and so should governance. Good boards:
– Listen before acting
– Ask questions and weigh evidence
– Reflect on how decisions impact the child’s Montessori journey
We ask: Does this decision honour the child and support their development?
Community Engagement
As parent-elected trustees, we represent the whole Wā Ora community. That means:
– Communicating clearly
– Seeking input on key decisions
– Ensuring all voices are genuinely heard.
We’re committed to giving effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi including:
– Partnering with our whānau Māori community and their tamariki
– Supporting te reo me ngā tikanga Māori
– Embedding mātauranga Māori into our kura curriculum.
What’s Involved
Being a trustee is a volunteer role with real impact. Monthly commitments include:
– Board meetings
– Reading papers and reports
– Committee work (e.g., finance, property, Te Tiriti)
– Strategic planning and school events
You don’t need to be an expert — just thoughtful, curious, and committed to Wā Ora’s kaupapa.
Final Thoughts
Serving on the Board is a meaningful way to support our tamariki and school community. Governance helps create the conditions for our children, staff, and school to thrive.
Naku te rourou, nāu te rourou, ka ora ai te kura.
With your basket and mine, our school will thrive.
