Who Does What? Understanding Roles and Responsibilities on a Preschool Board

A well-functioning preschool board is like a well-run classroom, everyone knows their role, works together, and stays focused on what matters most: supporting the mission and success of the program.

But what exactly are the responsibilities of a preschool board? And how do you make sure each member knows what they’re supposed to do?

Whether you're onboarding new members or clarifying expectations for a long-standing board, this guide is for you.

Why Clarity Matters

When board members aren’t clear on their roles, a few things can happen:

• Important tasks fall through the cracks

• Boundaries between board and staff get blurry

• Some members feel overwhelmed, while others check out

• Decision-making becomes inconsistent

Clear expectations help prevent confusion, reduce frustration, and create a board that functions with purpose.

The Board’s Big Picture Role

At its core, the preschool board exists to:

• Govern the organization

• Provide oversight and support to the director

• Ensure financial stability and legal compliance

• Advocate for the program in the community

• Plan for long-term sustainability

Boards do not manage day-to-day operations, that’s the role of the director and staff. Instead, boards set the tone, make high-level decisions, and act as strategic partners.

Common Roles on a Preschool Board

While every board looks a little different, here are some typical positions and what they do:

Board Chair / President

• Leads meetings and sets the agenda

• Acts as the main point of contact for the director

• Ensures the board stays focused and effective

  
  

Vice Chair / Vice President

• Supports the Chair and steps in when needed

• Often leads special projects or committees

  
  

Secretary

• Keeps meeting minutes and board records

• Helps manage communication between members

  
  

Treasurer

• Oversees the budget and financial reports

• Works closely with the director or bookkeeper to ensure transparency

  
  

General Members

• Participate in meetings and decision-making

• May serve on committees (fundraising, policy review, etc.)

• Support events, outreach, and special initiatives

Tips for a Stronger Board

• Use Job Descriptions: Written role descriptions help everyone understand what’s expected, and make recruitment and onboarding easier.

• Clarify Board vs. Staff Responsibilities: Use a simple chart or discussion to define where board oversight ends and staff duties begin.

• Keep a Board Calendar: Map out major tasks and meetings for the year so everyone stays on track (like budget approval, director evaluations, and fundraising events).

• Encourage Ongoing Communication: Check in regularly as a board, not just in meetings. Group chats, shared docs, and check-ins go a long way toward a healthy, connected board.

  
  

Remember: Your preschool board plays a critical role in ensuring the program's success and sustainability. When each member understands their role, and how they contribute to the bigger picture, the board becomes a true asset to the school community.

Clarity creates confidence. And confident boards support thriving programs.