Vice President of the Board of Directors of Sunrise Educational Society
Board Officer Job Description
As the governing body of Sunrise Waldorf School (school), the Sunrise Educational Society (SES) Board stewards
and safeguards the school for future generations. The SES Board focuses on the school's good governance,
strategic priorities, and supports executive decision-making. It ensures that school policies align with the Society's
Vision and Mission; and reduces fiduciary risk through appropriate and regular oversight and assessment.
In addition to serving as a Board Director, the Vice President is responsible for supporting the effective functioning
of the Board in its role of governing the Society. The Vice President is cognizant that this position is The Vice
President and Board President in consultation with one another, decide on how best to share and divide their
responsibilities in respect to the following:
Primary Duties
In consultation with the President
● Encourage board participation in strategic planning and organizational fundraising events
● Monitor board dynamics and support, guide and coach fellow board members inside and outside of board
meetings
● Conduct and report the results of a board evaluation
● Organize an annual board social gathering (e.g. holiday dinner/potluck) and a staff appreciation event
● Participate in board succession planning (recruitment, nominations and orientation)
● Participate in a supportive role, in quarterly check ins, and annual performance evaluation of Head of
School including follow-up support for additional learning and goal setting
In the absence of the President:
● Chair board meetings and other association meetings (i.e. AGM, General and Special Membership
meetings)
● Set agenda for monthly board meetings in consultation with the Head of School, Board secretary and
treasurer
● Prepare and report to the AGM on the activities of the Board of Directors
● Prepare and circulate the annual board calendar in August of each year
Secondary Duties
● Serve as signatory for certain organizational documents when needed
● Serve as public spokespersons for the Association when needed, however the Head of School normally
handles this responsibility on a day-to-day basis
● Serve in appeals processes as needed, and when there are formal complaints regarding the President
With greater regularity than other members of the Board, the Vice President may:
● Prepare recommendations for board consideration
● Prepare recommendations to the members for changes to by-laws
● Support the President with strategic and well documented succession planning
Committee Membership
Board HR Committee, as needed
Qualifications
The Vice President is committed to the Society’s Mission and strategic direction and has awareness of the Society’s
policies and procedures. The Vice President has a solid understanding of board meeting procedures and non profit
governance. The Vice President has experience in legal, political, and risk management, as well as strong
communication and facilitation skills. Other qualifications include:
● An understanding of Waldorf Schools, independent schools, and culture
● No conflict of interest in serving the role (not a staff member or their family member)
● Sufficient time to devote to their primary duties
● A resident of the community within 50 km of Duncan
Term of Office
● Two year term, renewable
Time Commitment
This position requires a commitment of approximately 8 hours a month; hours may increase from time to time.
Accountability
The Board Vice President is an Executive and voting member of the Board of Directors and appointed or
terminated in a manner consistent with the Bylaws. The role is accountable to the Board of Directors for the
fulfillment of the duties and responsibilities outlined in the Bylaws, the Society’s policies and procedures, this job
description and the SES Board Principles of Best Practice. The Board Vice President is provided a supportive annual
evaluation by the President or agreed upon designate, and is asked to complete a reflective, annual self
evaluation. The Vice President may be removed from the board, by special resolution, and in accordance with the
Bylaws, for not performing their duties or not being in-good standing over three months.
Authority
The Vice President has no formal authority to direct the Board or the affairs of the Society, including the work of
the Head of School, unless otherwise decided. Like other Board members, the Vice President is entitled to make
motions and vote on matters before the Society. The Vice President may not, on behalf of the Society, enter into
contracts without the knowledge and approval of the Board and/or the Executive Committee of the Board
(including the Head of School).
Approved: To Be Reviewed: 12/19/2023