In 2008, the Oregon School Board Association (OSBA) shifted to a regional model, with 19 board seats spread across 14 regions. A district’s population and size became critical factors in their influence over decisions. That is when rural Oregon began to lose their representation in OSBA.
In 2023, OSBA created a rural caucus. This was an empty gesture meant to placate districts’ whose voice and input had been silenced. It does very little to actually address the underlying issue of OSBA’s structure.
The critical issue is that OSBA’s structure ignores the important balance created by the Great Compromise at the founding of the United States. At that time, small states received equal votes in the Senate while larger states had more influence in the House based on population.
This was an important balance to ensure all voices were heard and valued.
Now, OSBA follows a house-style model. Oregon’s legislature also follows a house-style model. This causes large districts to receive most of the legislative attention and resources.
This imbalance leaves smaller and rural districts without the equal voice they deserve. We all want fairness that leads to better outcomes for every student across Oregon, regardless of district size.
Community School Boards of Oregon exists to push back against this under-representation and ensure all voices are heard. Please join us today to restore true balance in school board advocacy.