Resource Library

On behalf of the Association of California County Boards of Education (ACCBE) it is my pleasure to share with you a free reissue of The Trustee Handbook: A Guide to Shared Governance for County Boards of Education. This comprehensive guide serves as an essential resource for county board of education trustees—providing clear guidance on their roles, responsibilities, and governance practices. Whether you are a new trustee learning about your duties or an experienced trustee navigating emerging challenges, the Handbook is designed to support effective service.

ACCBE was established in 2024 to fill the critical gap created by the elimination of the California County Boards of Education (CCBE) as a section of the California School Boards Association (CSBA). The Trustee Handbook was originally created by CCBE in 2022 and funded through membership dues paid by county offices of education. The lead authors, editors, and contributors to the Handbook are now ACCBE leaders and supporters who recognize its ongoing value as a key resource for ACCBE members.

Strong Governance, Leadership, and Partnerships is one of ACCBE’s core pillars. The Trustee Handbook is a foundational tool in advancing this work. ACCBE incorporates the Handbook into its New Trustees Mentoring Program as well as member-to-member networking and learning events. Importantly, ACCBE is committed to regularly updating and expanding its content to reflect evolving laws and best practices. This Handbook is part of a growing number of tools and resources ACCBE provides to county board trustees across California.

Bina Lefkovitz
President
August 2025