Why Governance Matters More Than You Think

By: Andrew Sherman, Cognia Vice Preseident, Latin America

Most international school boards see governance as compliance and oversight. That’s only part of the picture. In today’s global education landscape, boards that fail to adapt risk falling behind. The challenge isn’t meeting standards—it’s building a governance model that drives strategic growth and student success across cultures.

The Cognia® Board Governance Certification reframes governance as a lever for transformation, not a checkbox exercise.

The Hidden Gap in Board Performance

Here’s the truth: many boards lack a clear framework for collaboration, data-driven decisions, and long-term vision. This gap erodes trust among parents and educators and limits a school’s ability to compete globally.

This Cognia Certification program closes that gap with research-based standards that empower boards to lead with confidence. Certified boards don’t just follow best practices — they set them. That signals to families and communities: your school is committed to excellence everywhere.

Take Control of Your Board’s Future

Incremental change isn’t enough. Schools that thrive have boards that embrace accountability and transparency as strategic advantages. Cognia provides a roadmap and expert guidance to strengthen oversight, align governance with performance standards, and build leadership capacity.

This isn’t about passing a test — it’s about proving your commitment to high-quality education in a globalized world. The question isn’t whether you need stronger governance. It’s whether you can afford not to act now.

Learn more by watching the video or contacting Andrew Sherman, Cognia Vice President, Latin America at andrew.sherman@cognia.org.