CUBE Annual Award FAQ
CUBE Award Frequently Asked Questions
When’s the deadline?
The deadline for this year’s award is May 5, 2008
How long does our application have to be?
There is no minimum number of pages, we encourage you to provide details that highlight your progress over the last five years and showcase any innovative ideas that your district is working on to improve academic success.
How much data do we need to include?
We ask that you provide five years of data including: test scores, AYP status, drop out rates, minority college attendees, AP class demographics, and any other data that you feel would provide the judges an insight on how your district is successful. This can be included as supporting materials or an attachment to your application.
What if we don’t get along as a board?
The CUBE Award for School Board Excellence is a governance team award. The award focuses on progress, success, and achievement, not personality. As a governing body setting policy, your board and superintendent should demonstrate your ability to focus on the four core areas outlined on the award application.
What if we aren’t making great gains in achievement?
The judges look for progress in your district, not for a perfect district. If your district has shown improvements over the last few years and you feel that you’ve made strides in community relations, student achievement, or any of the four core areas, your district should apply.
Does the superintendent need to be part of the application?
Yes, the CUBE Award looks at your district as a governance team. The superintendent and the board should be shown as an example of a good working relationship. This does not imply everyone is working in a utopian environment--your focus is on the student achievement gains for your district, not the personalities involved.
What’s the benefit for us to go through this process?
The award process will provide you with self-assessment to take a good look at your board from a more objective approach. In addition, our judges will provide you with feedback to give you a perspective on how well your board functions.
Who do I contact if I have addition questions?
We are having two FREE webinars to help you. We’ll be conducting one before and after the NSBA Annual Conference. The first will take place on March 13 at 2PM Eastern Time and the second will be April 10 at 3PM Eastern Time. We are also available in Orlando if you have questions or you may contact Kevin Scott at 703-838-6232 or kscott@nsba.org.