Concordance

Concordance? What is it?

The Concordance model of decision-making and voting is used at all Horizons meetings council, board meetings, faculty meetings.

Horizons uses a student and community-focused model of education, based on the principles of trust and honesty. Every voice matters. Success depends on the culture of the team. Listening and empathy are key.

The Concordance Voting Process:  

• A motion is brought forth for a proposed item to be voted on. 

• There is a second to the motion once everyone agrees on the verbiage of the proposed motion.

• Members proceed with a vote. 

• If there is unanimous agreement, the motion passes.

• If there is no unanimous agreement, then the vote fails and discussion continues.

• Those who are not in agreement are asked to present what they are objecting to and other solutions/amendments. 

• Once everyone has had a chance to discuss, another motion is presented and vote taken.

• This occurs until all voting members present can come to a unanimous vote or the vote is postponed pending more research and discussion. 

• If Concordance cannot be reached, the Parent Board Chair and Principal can set a limit to the number of meetings to discuss the issue. 

• Once that allotted time has been reached, depending on the topic being voted on, as defined in the Horizon by-laws, the decision may be sent to the Board to review and vote. 

This is an extenuation of the idea that clearly communicating with each other in a safe space allows for everyone to have a voice in the discussion. It allows for disagreement and exploration of alternate ideas, fostering better mutual understanding and a more inclusive decision-making.