Committees, Task Forces and Groups

Much of the work accomplished in the Bellingham School District is the result of committees and task forces.  Membership consists of representatives from stakeholder groups. All do specific work at the direction of the Superintendent.

Recommendations are advisory and the final decision-making authority varies depending on the type of group. (See definitions below for more information.)

To keep staff, families and the community updated on the district's major work, timely information is posted regularly on the district's Web site and is shared in the district's print and electronic publications. Tasks, membership, timelines, decision-making authority and the process for stakeholder input is outlined.

Major decisions, periodic minutes, and any report or recommendations resulting from the committee and task force work are posted for review on the district's Web site.  See links at right.

Participation and Selection Process:  Once a task force or committee is established, a call for participation will be published on the district Web site and widely distributed through district communication channels for interested persons to submit their names to the chair for membership consideration. Chairs, in consultation with the Superintendent, will review applications and select members who represent a diversity of stakeholders and viewpoints. Criteria for selection will also include the participant's interest in serving, background and skills in the subject matter (if applicable), ability to engage collaboratively with fellow members, and availability to meet and accomplish the work.  Contractual committees, ad hoc committees and advisory groups/panels of experts will have a modified membership and selection process due to the nature of the work.

Click here for the Application Form.

Definitions

Task Force: A task force is approved to do the specific work of the Bellingham School District. It operates within a specific timeline and then dissolves when the work is completed. It is advisory to the Superintendent. Examples include the Parent Teacher Conference Task Force and the Elementary Student Support Task Force.

Contractual Committee: A contractual committee is one required by a memorandum of understanding with employee labor associations to accomplish a specific purpose. It operates within a specific timeline and then dissolves when the work completed. It is advisory to the employee labor association and the Superintendent. Examples include BASE Conference Committee and the BEA Safety Committee.

Standing Committee: A standing committee is approved by the Superintendent to do specific work over time. It is active when there is work to be done. It does not dissolve when the work is completed but rather goes into an inactive status until it is time to be reactivated. Examples include the District Budget Advisory Committee, Instructional Materials Advisory Committee and Citizens' Advisory Committee for Levies and Bonds.

Ad Hoc Committee: An ad hoc committee is approved by the Superintendent to advise administrative staff on certain issues. It dissolves when the specific work is completed. An example is the math curriculum committee.

Advisory Groups/Panel of Experts: Departments and programs often have advisory groups or panels of experts to make internal recommendations for improvement to their program or department.  These recommendations are advisory to the department or program leader.  An example is the Special Education Focus Group.