Why is there a Board of Directors?

The Board of Directors of a not-for-profit corporation exists to oversee the overall management of the organization. This includes supervising the Executive Director, providing strategic direction, and developing and implementing corporate policies that will ensure the ongoing viability and integrity of the organization. The Board of Directors are accountable to its "owners" (children, parents/guardians, community and government), and share a legal responsibility to act in the best interest of Schoolhouse Playcare Centres of Durham.

Who is the Board?

The Board of Directors is comprised of volunteer parents/guardians and community members from a variety of professional backgrounds, all with an interest in ensuring a high quality child care system for families in Durham. Board Members are elected on a yearly basis at the Annual General Meeting, which is held in June. Based on the current by-laws of the organization, Schoolhouse Playcare Centres operates with a capacity of 10 members of the Board.

What does the Board do?

The Board of Directors is responsible to act on behalf of the organization's owners to ensure that the strategic objectives are being met and that programs are being delivered in a safe, nurturing and educational manner. The Board entrusts the Executive Director to manage the organization's operations on a day-to-day basis, and monitors those activities through monthly reporting procedures. The Board of Directors work in conjunction with the Executive Director to understand the broader child care environment, identify community needs, monitor and assess programs, and set goals for the organization. The Board's responsibilities include strategic planning, financial oversight, governance and overall accountability for the ongoing sustainability of the organization.