Election Day · Monday, October 26, 2026Voting details

School board basics

What does a school
board trustee do?

Understanding the role you’re voting for.

A trustee represents community perspectives in the governance of a school board. Trustees work as members of the board, make decisions collectively and help set direction for publicly funded education.

01

Represent community perspectives at the board table

02

Listen to students, families and community members

03

Bring community concerns to board discussions

04

Participate in board and committee meetings

05

Help set policies and strategic direction collectively

06

Participate in decisions about the board budget

07

Keep student achievement and well-being in view

08

Help oversee the responsible use of public resources

09

Communicate board decisions to constituents

Where the role has limits

One trustee does not decide alone.

Major decisions are made collectively by the Board of Trustees. An individual trustee does not independently direct teachers, principals or board staff. Day-to-day management is carried out by board administration under the Director of Education (also called the Chief Executive Officer under Ontario’s 2026 governance changes).

Learn more from Ontario school trustee resources