Plans to change the way Cherokee County Board of Education members are elected drew criticism from the ac-crediting agency for schools.

The letter was sent Monday to School Board Chairman Mike Chapman in response to an inquiry to AdancED, the organization that includes the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement.

Mr. Chapman,

This communication is in response to your inquiry regarding the proposed State of Georgia legislation that would restructure the voting districts and responsibilities for the Cherokee County Board of Education. There are several concerns regarding the proposed legislation. First, the election of the Board chair by registered voters in Cherokee County is highly irregular.

Normally the Board chair is elected by members of the Board. This is a normal and effective practice for a couple of reasons. The election of the chair is normally based on the individual's experience as a board member, knowledge of the school system, ability to facilitate the work of the Board, and serve as a spokesperson for the Board, when required.

Boards of Education take great care in making this decision. Such members are in the best position to select their leadership. The Board chair is the primary liaison between the Superintendent and the Board and plays a critical role in setting the context and tone for the school system. Finally, the Board chair position is typically a one year ap-pointment.

If the community at large were to elect the Board chair it would struggle making an informed decision based on the above stated criteria. Also, such a decision would be for four years. If the decision is incorrect the school system and Board would have no recourse. In such a case, the system could be irreparably harmed during this four year period. The school system’s ability to function could be significantly impacted including its capacity to meet accredi-tation requirements.

I am uncertain as to the motivation behind the consideration of the proposed legislation. However the State of Georgia should not enact legislation that bypasses or usurps the local control of Boards of Education. There is no substitute for the impact that an effective Board of Education can have on the success of a school system. Cherokee County Schools have enjoyed over a decade of success because of the strong and stable leadership of its governance leadership team which includes the Board of Education and Superintendent. Any legislation that would disrupt this successful track record would be unfortunate.

If I can be of any further assistance please let me know.

Mark A. Elgart, Ed.D.

President/CEO AdvancED