Board Service FAQ
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What is the purpose of the TAGT Board?
The TAGT Board is the governing body of the association and as such, sets strategic policy, provides general oversight and actively pursues association goals.
Who is the ideal TAGT Board candidate?
TAGT strives for a Board that includes individuals that reflect the diversity of its membership. This includes consideration of leadership qualities, experience and background, and areas of expertise. The Board reflects various geographical backrounds and stakeholder groups in gifted education, including administrators, classroom teachers, parents and university representatives.
What is the role of the volunteer TAGT Board member?
Board members are the link between the organization and the membership. They are responsible for strategic thinking, planning and evaluating on behalf of the association. While association staff and committee volunteers typically execute TAGT programs, TAGT Board members are responsible for setting the vision, establishing broad policies and organizational goals, and providing long-term strategic direction for the association.
Is there a membership requirement for serving on the TAGT Board?
Board members must hold and maintain an active TAGT Membership in the association for the length of service.
How often does the TAGT Board meet?
There are four (4) formal Board meetings each year, generally held on a quarterly basis. The Board meets in January/February (Leadership Retreat/Orientation), in May/June, in September, and in November/December (in conjunction with giftED, the TAGT Annual Conference). Meetings are typically one or two-day commitments.
What are the qualifications for serving on the Board?
TAGT Bylaws specify that current, active TAGT membership is a minimum requirement to be considered for board service. To be eligible for Officer positions, you must have served on the Board for at least one year. With limited Board positions and more than 2,000 members, TAGT Board selection is competitive and prior involvement and participation in TAGT activities is valued.
What is the personal financial commitment?
TAGT will reimburse expenses incurred for the official conduct of TAGT business related to scheduled and called meetings of the TAGT Board and selected/approved committee volunteer work. As an alternative to reimbursement, volunteer leaders may choose to log their expenses and use as a charitable tax deduction on their personal income tax filing, as TAGT is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. If volunteer leadership service is supported by a school district or company, TAGT appreciates expenses being deferred back to the employer, when applicable.
How much time does board service require?
Although board members must be willing to invest time in preparing for and thoughtfully participating in board meetings, the time commitment is not onerous. The TAGT Board meets in person quarterly for approximately 8 hours. These meetings may take place in one day or over a two-day period usually on Friday and/or Saturday. Additional obligations include a three-day Leadership retreat held in January/February, attendance at the giftED, the TAGT Annual Conference, and depending on the board position, committee meetings held in person in conjunction with other TAGT events or virtually.
How does the nomination/application process work?
Any member in good standing, who meets the board service requirements, may apply for Board service by completing the online application form by April 15, 2023. Additionally, TAGT members may nominate others who they believe would be an asset to the Board. These nominees will also be asked to complete the Board application if interested. Online nomination forms are due April 8, 2023, the nominee will receive the online application form by email and must complete the application by April 15, 2023.
How are Board members selected?
By policy, the TAGT Leadership Development Committee (LDC) is charged with the task of thoroughly reviewing all applications and determining a slate of nominees which reflect geographic diversity and a range of experience and background based on a needs assessment. The LDC shall prepare a slate of nominees for Officers, Designated, and At-Large Board Members and present that slate to the voting members within seven working days. If no office or position is contested by self-declared individuals, at the close of the posted time, the election will be deemed closed. The nominated slate will be accepted as duly elected by consensus of the voting members if no office or position is contested.
What if I am nominated, but not selected?
There is always next year! And there are committee positions available as well as other volunteer opportunities.
What benefits do board volunteers receive in return for their service?
Previous TAGT Board members have attested to the tremendous value of board service, reporting significant professional and personal benefits, including the opportunity to meet, work with and learn from industry leaders; the chance to share their own knowledge, expertise and training with others; professional recognition that elevates their stature within the education community at large; valuable work experience that opens the door to new career opportunities; and relationships with new friends and life-long mentors.
What is the structure of the Board?
The Board structure includes four Officers (President, President-Elect or Immediate Past President, Secretary, and Treasurer); four Designated Board Members (one parent representative, one K-12 representative, one university-level representative, and one administrator); and four At-Large Members. Click here for a detailed description of each position.