We're excited to launch a new feature, "Leadership Lens," delivering insights and inspiration to support you in your vital role as a school board member. Our Leadership Development team will share practical wisdom, fresh perspectives and motivation to help you lead with confidence and purpose. We hope these nuggets encourage and energize you as you serve your schools and communities.

Leadership Lens: 'You Cannot Pretend to Show Up'

Occasionally, a random sentence sticks with you. During a recent training for board officers, one of our guest speakers said, "You can pretend to care, but you cannot pretend to show up." It has resonated with me. At first, it doesn't sound quite right; however, there is truth packed inside. Have you had times in your life when the simple act of showing up was the act of caring? One of the best ways we can serve our communities and our board is to begin with showing up for meetings, events and ultimately, for our students.

Does it matter? Will anyone miss you if you aren't there? They may not always miss you if you are not there, but they sure will notice when you are! Over time, consistency and reliability matter — they demonstrate what you deem worthy of your time. When you show up, you inevitably build stronger relationships and see things from different perspectives, helping you make better decisions at the board table. Showing up creates momentum and signals to others that their presence matters too — and that is a key indicator of true leadership.

Boardmanship is not simply about filling a seat; it is about honoring a responsibility. In the end, leadership is rarely defined by a single speech or vote. More often, it is defined by the quiet consistency of people who keep showing up.

Janice Stockman
AASB Director of Leadership Development