What is the Composition of the BOM in Schools? [Members of the BOM]

composition of bom — composition of School BOM

In Kenya, public secondary schools are governed by a Board of Management (BOM) composed of various members appointed to oversee the school’s affairs.

A typical school BOM is composed of 14 members, including representatives from various stakeholder groups and a teacher representative as discussed below.

Let’s dive into the composition of the BOM and understand the roles of its members.

1. Parent and Community Representatives (6 members)

These members are appointed to represent the parents’ body or the local community.

They play a crucial role in voicing the concerns and interests of the parents and the community in the school’s decision-making process.

2. Sponsors Representatives (3 members)

These members represent the sponsors of the school, which could be a religious organization, community group, or government entity.

They ensure that the sponsors’ interests and contributions to the school are considered in the decision-making process.

3. County Education Board Nominee (1 member)

This member is nominated by the County Education Board (CEB) and represents the board’s interests and perspectives within the BOM.

4. Special Interest Groups Representative (1 member)

This member represents special interest groups in the community, such as minority groups or marginalized communities.

Their role is to ensure that the interests of these groups are considered in the school’s activities and policies.

5. Persons with Special Needs Representative (1 member)

This member represents persons with special needs and advocates for their inclusion and support within the school environment.

6. Teacher Representative (1 member)

This member is appointed to represent the teaching staff in the school.

They provide valuable input from the teachers’ perspective and ensure that teachers’ concerns are addressed in the decision-making process.

7. Ex-Officio Student Council Representative (1 member)

This member represents the students’ council and ensures that student voices are heard and considered in the BOM’s decisions.

8. Co-Opted Members

The BOM is allowed to co-opt up to a maximum of 3 additional members who possess experience and skills that would assist in the discharge of the Board’s functions.

These members do not have the right to vote at the meetings of the board but provide valuable expertise and guidance to the BOM.

Meeting Frequency

According to the Basic Education Act, BOMs should have a meeting after every four months.

Regular meetings ensure that the BOM stays informed about the school’s activities and can address any issues that arise promptly.

Challenges and Proposed Changes

The number of members in a secondary school board in Kenya has been a topic of debate.

In response to concerns about the cost and effectiveness of large boards, the Ministry of Education proposed a change of law to regulate the number of BOM members from seventeen to nine.

This change was aimed at providing a more effective way of managing schools and cutting down on costs associated with allowances and transport refunds for board members.

Understanding the composition of the BOM in schools is crucial for parents, teachers, and the community.

By knowing who represents each group and their roles, stakeholders can actively participate in the school’s governance and ensure that the school operates effectively and efficiently.

FAQs about the Composition of the BOM in Schools

Q: Who appoints the members of the Board of Management (BOM) in public secondary schools in Kenya?

A: The County Education Board (CEB) appoints the members of the BOM, including representatives from the parents’ body or local community, sponsors, special interest groups, persons with special needs, teaching staff, and the students’ council.

Q: How many members are there in a typical BOM?

A: A typical BOM consists of 14 members, including representatives from various stakeholder groups and a teacher representative.

Q: Can the BOM co-opt additional members?

A: Yes, the BOM can co-opt up to a maximum of 3 additional members who possess experience and skills that would assist in the discharge of the Board’s functions.

Q: What is the role of the teacher representative in the BOM?

A: The teacher representative is appointed to represent the teaching staff in the school and provides valuable input from the teachers’ perspective in the decision-making process.

Q: How often does the BOM meet?

A: According to the Basic Education Act, BOMs should have a meeting after every four months to discuss school affairs and make decisions regarding the school’s management.

Q: Why was there a proposed change in the number of BOM members from seventeen to nine?

A: The proposed change was aimed at providing a more effective way of managing schools and cutting down on costs associated with allowances and transport refunds for board members. It was also in response to concerns about the effectiveness of large boards.