Generally, the board has overall responsibility to set policy for those matters where the State permits local discretion. The board acts by formally adopting District Policies and Regulations, approving contracts for services, adopting an annual budget, and appointing and supervising the Superintendent of Schools. In many aspects of district operation, the board shares responsibility with the Superintendent. For instance, although the Board has ultimate responsibility for the hiring and firing of employees, it can do so only upon the recommendation of the Superintendent. Likewise, although the Board must approve all contracts for services, the Superintendent must negotiate those contracts.
Board members act only as a corporate body.
Thus individual board members have no more power or authority than any other resident of the district. The Board of Education can only exercise authority when it meets in public session and votes upon formal motions. For more information about the powers, duties and responsibilities of the Board of Education, see NYS Education Law Section 1709, Powers and Duties of Boards of Education.