My First 90 Days as a School Board Member

A Commitment to Learning, Listening, and Building Relationships

If elected to serve on the school board, I will spend my first 90 days focused on listening to the voices of our students, teachers, parents, and community members. I believe the best way to lead is to start by learning—with humility, curiosity, and a deep respect for those already doing the work. Below is my plan to ensure I start strong and stay focused on what matters most: the success of our students.

Phase 1: Learn & Connect (Days 1–30)

* Building relationships and understanding how things work

• Meet individually with each school board member to hear their insights and experiences.

• Meet with the Superintendent and key district leaders to understand current goals, challenges, and initiatives.

• Visit each school in the district to meet principals, staff, and students.

• Attend school events to begin engaging with the broader community.

• Begin planning a district-wide Listening Tour to hear directly from teachers, students, and families.

Goal: Build relationships, observe, and gain a clear picture of the current landscape.

Phase 2: Listen & Learn from the Community (Days 31–60)

* Hearing from the people who matter most: students, educators, and families

• Host teacher listening sessions at each school to hear what’s working and what needs support.

• Hold student roundtables with a diverse group of students across grade levels.

• Attend and co-host parent and caregiver forums—both in-person and virtually.

• Make special effort to hear from historically underserved or underrepresented groups.

• Review key district materials including budgets, policies, performance data, and strategic plans.

Goal: Identify common themes, concerns, and opportunities across our school community.

Phase 3: Align & Plan Ahead (Days 61–90)

* Turning what I’ve heard into thoughtful, collaborative action

• Share a public summary of the Listening Tour to keep the community informed.

• Begin identifying 2–3 priority areas where I can contribute in alignment with board goals.

• Actively participate in board meetings by asking thoughtful questions and seeking common ground.

• Commit to ongoing communication through regular updates or community office hours.

• Continue personal development through training in school governance, equity, and education policy.

Goal: Align with board responsibilities, honor community voices, and focus on long-term student success.

Guiding Principles

• Listen before leading

• Collaborate, don’t compete

• Stay transparent and accessible

• Put students at the center of every decision

I’m excited to serve with a mindset of humility, accountability, and service. This plan is just the beginning of what I hope will be a strong, meaningful, and student-focused term on the school board.

Tim Washko
Candidate for Greater Albany School District 8J, Director At-Large #2