Source: http://www.rhinebeckcsd.org/policyview.php?PolicyID=Series2000
Timestamp: 2018-01-20 02:46:15
Document Index: 353776791

Matched Legal Cases: ['§1604', '§1604', 'art 84', '§1604', '§2012', '§2018', '§2012', '§3', '§2102', '§10', '§31', '§306', '§1709', 'art.\n2', '§1', '§10', '§1707', '§2', '§2', '§1709', '§902', '§100', '§103', '§1606', '§1708', '§100', '§84', '§2121', '§1604', '§39', '§100', '§1618', '§77']

Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2100 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
District Reference ,
Adoption Date 2002-04-09
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2110 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
SCHOOL BOARD POWERS AND DUTIES
The Board of Education’s responsibility is to establish educational policy and confer upon the Superintendent of Schools the necessary authority to ensure effective administration of such policy.
The Board is charged with carrying out the duties imposed upon it by law. It is also the responsibility of the Board, as is possible, to ascertain the representative wishes of the community with respect to the education of its children and the operation of its school district. It is equally the responsibility of the Board, after carefully weighing all relevant factors, to make decisions while fully realizing that the action of the Board may not be equally pleasing to all segments of the community. The best interests of all the students and the resources of the school district will guide the Board in its deliberation.
In giving direction to the Superintendent, the Board shall act by a majority vote of the whole Board, unless otherwise specified in law. The Superintendent makes necessary staff assignments to carry out the decisions of the Board. The Superintendent provides the Board with recommendations, facts and figures to assist in its decision-making role.
It is the obligation of the Board to establish an effective reporting system and evaluation of the Superintendent’s performance to make certain its policies are effectively carried out.
Education Law §§1604; 1604-a; 1701; 1708; 1709; 1710
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2110.1 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
SCHOOL BOARD ACCESS TO PERSONNEL RECORDS
In accordance with the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, members of the Board of Education may review employee personnel records only for the purpose of aiding the members to fulfill their legal responsibilities in making decisions in such employee personnel matters as appointments, assignments, promotions, demotions, remuneration, discipline or dismissal, or to aid in the development and implementation of personnel policies, or such other uses as are necessary to enable the Board to carry out legal responsibilities.
Board members may review employee personnel records provided:
1. the Superintendent is requested in advance to bring the file to a regularly scheduled open meeting of the Board;
2. the records are reviewed during an executive session;
3. the personnel records are returned in their entirety to the Superintendent at the conclusion of the executive session; and
4. no reproduction of the records is made and no written notes are taken of the contents of employee personnel records.
Education Law §§1604; 1604--a; 1701; 1708; 1709; 1710
8 NYCRR, Part 84
Gustin v. Joiner, 95 Misc. 2d 277 (1978), aff'd 68 AD2d 880 (1978)
Matter of Bruno, 4 EDR 14 (1964)
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2111 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
BOARD MEMBER AUTHORITY
Members of the Board of Education have authority only when acting as a corporate body legally in session except when such action is in pursuance of specific instructions of the Board.
Members of the Board are free to speak to individuals on issues outside of Board meetings but such public expression is not to be construed as Board policy. Information from executive sessions must remain confidential at all times, unless release is appropriately authorized. The Board will not be bound in any way by any individual's statement or action unless the Board, through an adopted policy or by a majority vote of Board membership, has delegated this authority to the individual member.
In addition to the above, Board members are obliged to:
1. Regularly attend meetings of the Board.
2. Serve on committees as designated by the President of the Board.
3. Become familiar with materials as they are developed and supplied to Board members.
4. Adhere to policies governing the organization and operation of the Board.
Education Law §§1604; 1701; 1708; 1709; 1710
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2111.1 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
BOARD MEMBER SCHOOL VISITS
Unless specifically authorized to act on behalf of the Board of Education, an individual Board member has no right to make an official visit to the schools for the purposes of inspecting the schools, gathering information, or giving directions to any employee of the schools. The individual Board member’s rights are no greater or different from those of any other individual. As such, individual Board members shall follow procedures set by the district for school building visitations. Concerns or opinions related to the education program in individual school buildings shall be directed to the Superintendent of Schools.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2120 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
Except for a member appointed to fill a vacancy until the next regular school election, all elections of members of the Board of Education shall be held on the third Tuesday in May, unless this date conflicts with religious observances on that day, in which case it shall be held on the second Tuesday in May. The polls shall be open for those hours designated by the district.
The candidates who receive a plurality of the votes cast respectively for the several offices are to be declared elected.
In an election where one or several vacancies are caused by resignation creating unexpired terms, the vacancies are to be filled by candidates who receive a plurality of votes cast, after the full term vacancies are filled.
Education Law §§2012; 2013; 2014; 2018; 2018-a; 2019-a; 2031; 2034; 2035
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2120.1 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
Candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education shall be nominated by petition. Such petition shall be directed to the District Clerk, shall contain the signatures and addresses of at least 25 qualified voters of the district or 2 percent of the voters who voted in the previous election, whichever is greater, and shall state the name and residence of the candidate. Each petition shall be filed with the District Clerk not later than 30 days preceding the Annual Meeting and Election at which the candidates so nominated are to be elected.
Candidates for vacancies shall be arranged according to lot and the Clerk of the Board shall conduct the drawing on the day following the last possible date for candidates to file a petition. The Board may reject nominations if the candidate is ineligible or has declared an unwillingness to serve.
Vacancies on the Board are not to be considered separate specific offices.
Electioneering during the hours of any vote is prohibited within the polling place or within 100 feet of any such polling place. Displays or handout items of any political nature, except those provided by law, shall be prohibited by any individual, group or organization in any school building on those days when the polls are open for voting on school district matters, including, but not limited to, the annual school budget, candidates for the Board of Education, special propositions, etc.
Campaign Expenditure Statements
All candidates for Board membership shall fulfill all legal requirements regarding the filing of campaign expenditure statements.
Education Law §2018; 2032
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2120.2 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
A person shall be entitled to vote at any school district meeting for election of members of the Board of Education, and upon all matters which may be brought before such meeting, who is:
1. a citizen of the United States; and
2. at least 18 years of age; and
3. a resident within the school district for a period of at least thirty days immediately preceding the election/vote at which such person desires to vote.
For purposes of Section 2012 of the Education Law, an individual may have only one legal residence or domicile and that is where the individual intends to have his/her permanent residence. Ownership of property, such as a weekend home, does not confer upon the property owner the right to vote in school district elections/votes.
Any person who would not be qualified to register or vote under the provisions of section 5-106 of the Election Law shall not have the right to register for or vote in an election/vote, including:
a) those convicted felons who have not been pardoned or had their rights of citizenship restored; those whose maximum sentence of imprisonment has not expired; and/or those who have not been discharged from parole;
b) persons adjudged mentally incompetent by a court.
In addition to the above, personal registration is required of any qualified resident who wishes to vote at school district elections/votes. Qualified residents are deemed registered to vote in a school district election/vote if they are registered to vote with the County Board of Elections. All other qualified residents must have personally registered to vote prior to the school district election/vote in accordance with the provisions of Section 2014 of the Education Law.
Qualified voters may register to vote at the Office of the District Clerk and the Business Office, located at the District’s Administrative Offices during regular business hours (9 AM to 4 PM) on days when school is in session (September through June) and on regular business days during the summer months (July and August) (9 AM to 3 PM). The individual seeking to register to vote will be required to provide proof of qualification, which may include one or more of the following items at the District’s discretion: driver’s license with picture, non-driver identification card with picture, passport, lease agreement, deed plus utility bill, and/or redacted copy of income tax return.
Challenges to voters believed unqualified may be undertaken pursuant to Education Law provisions. As provided in Section 205 of the Education Law, the presiding chairman appointed by the Board shall have the responsibility of properly handling any challenges to the qualification of any voter at each annual or special lection/vote.
If a person claiming to be a district resident presents him/herself and offers to vote but his/her name does not appear on the list of registered voters, that person may be permitted to vote only if:
a) the person presents a court order requiring that he/she be permitted to vote; or
b) the person swears in an affidavit pursuant to Section 2019-a of the Education Law that he/she has duly registered to vote, remains a qualified voter, resides in the District, that his/her registration record appears to be lost or misplaced. Upon submission of a properly signed and notarized affidavit, the individual will be permitted to vote by paper ballot.
Voting machines will be used for recording the votes on all elections, budget votes, and votes on propositions. In the event of an emergency whereby the machines are unavailable or are malfunctioning or the use of machines are prohibited by state or local law, paper ballots may be used.
Each voting machine shall have at least one clerk and one election inspector appointed by the Board in attendance during all voting hours. It shall be the duty of each clerk to keep a poll list containing the names, signatures and legal residence address of each person before such person is permitted to vote.
Write-in ballots are permissible, when applicable, by utilizing the write-in device provided with the voting machine. Paper ballots containing the names of nominated candidates and positions, if any, will be provided by the Board. A blank space or spaces shall be provided under the name of the candidates for write-in votes. The number of blank spaces must equal the number of vacancies available. The writing in of a name in the blank space(s) provided will indicate a vote. It is not necessary for a voter to place any other mark beside the name of a write-in candidate.
Education Law §§2012; 2014; 2018; 2018-a; 2018-b; 2018-c; 2019; 2019-a; 2020; 2025; 2032(2)(e); 2035; 2037; 2603; 2610; 2613
Election Law §§3-224; 5-106; 5-612; 5-400; 5-406
Matter of Rodriguez, 31 EDR 471 (1992)
Matter of Gresty, 31 EDR 90 (1991)
Matter of Ferro, 25 EDR 175 (1985)
Matter of Manno and Maloney, 23 EDR 172 (1983)
Matter of Yost, 21 EDR 140 (1981)
Matter of Alpert and Helmer, 20 EDR 281 (1980)
Matter of Reigler and Barton, 16 EDR 256 (1977)
Appeal of Klein, Decision No. 15,738 (2008)
Last Revised 2009-03-24
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2121 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
To qualify as a candidate for the office of member of the Board of Education, a person must be a qualified voter of the school district and:
1. be able to read and write;
3. at least 18 years of age; and
4. be a legal resident of the school district one year prior to the election;
A person may not be a Board member if he/she resides with another member of the Board as a member of the same family.
No current employee of the Board may be a member of the Board.
Education Law §§2102; 2103; 2502(7)
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2122 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
BOARD MEMBER OATH OF OFFICE
Newly elected or appointed Board of Education members must take their constitutional oath of office within 30 days of the beginning of their term of office. They shall be sworn in by Board President, District Clerk or any notary public, and the oath shall be filed with the District Clerk.
Public Officers Law §§10; 30
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2130 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
A member of the Board of Education may resign his/her office by filing his/her resignation with the District Clerk. The effective date of the resignation must be within 30 days after the date of filing.
Public Officers Law §31(1)(h)
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2140 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
A member of the Board of Education may be removed from office for willful violation or neglect of duty, or for willfully disobeying any decision, order or regulation of the Commissioner of Education. Notice of the charge and an opportunity for defense shall be provided. Official misconduct may be grounds for removal by the Board after a hearing.
A vacancy on the Board may also be declared if it is clearly established that a member has failed to attend three consecutive meetings without sufficient excuse or if a member has changed his/her legal residence from that of the school district.
Education Law §§306; 1709; 2109
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2150 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The Board of Education has the power to fill, by appointment, any vacancy which may occur by reason of death, resignation, removal from office or refusal to serve of any member or officer of the Board. The person so appointed shall hold his/her office until the next election of Board members.
Education Law §§1709(17); 2113
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2100 Policy Number: 2160 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
SCHOOL BOARD OFFICER AND EMPLOYEE ETHICS
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 806 of the General Municipal Law, the Board of Education recognizes that there are rules of ethical conduct for public officers and employees which must be observed if a high degree of moral conduct is to be obtained and if public confidence is to be maintained in our unit of local government. It is the purpose of this resolution to promulgate these rules of ethical conduct for the officers and employees of the district. These rules shall serve as a guide for official conduct of the officers and employees of the district. The rules of ethical conduct of this resolution as adopted, shall not conflict with, but shall be in addition to, any prohibition of Article 18 of the General Municipal Law or any other general or special law relating to ethical conduct and interest in contracts of officers and employees.
Every officer and employee, whether paid or unpaid, of the district shall be subject to and abide by the following standards of conduct:
1. Gifts: He/she shall not directly or indirectly solicit any gift; or accept or receive any gift having a value of $75 or more, whether in the form of money, loan, services, travel, entertainment, hospitality, thing or promise, or any other form, under circumstances in which it could be reasonably inferred that the gift was intended to influence him/her, or could be reasonably expected to influence him/her, in the performance of his/her official duties or was intended as a reward for any official action on his/her part.
2. Confidential information: He/she shall not discuss confidential information acquired by him/her in the course of his/her official duties or use such information to further his/her personal interest.
3. Representation before one’s own agency: He/she shall not receive, or enter into any agreement, expressed or implied, for compensation for services to be rendered in relation to any matter before any agency over which he/she has jurisdiction or to which he/she has the power to appoint any member, officer or employee.
4. Representation before any agency for a contingent fee: He/she shall not receive, or enter into any agreement, expressed or implied for compensation for services to be rendered in relation to any matter before any agency of his/her district, whereby his/her compensation is to be dependent or contingent upon any action by such agency with respect to such matter, provided that this paragraph shall not prohibit the fixing at any time of fees based upon the reasonable value of the services rendered.
5. Disclosure of interest in legislation: To the extent that he knows thereof, a member of the Board and any officer or employee of the district, whether paid or unpaid, who participates in the discussions or gives official opinion to the Board on any legislation before the Board shall publicly disclose on the official record the nature and extent of any direct or indirect financial or other interest he/she has in such legislation.
6. Investments in conflict with official duties: He/she shall not invest or hold any investment directly or indirectly in any financial, business, commercial, or other private transaction, which creates a conflict with his official duties.
7. Private employment: He/she shall not engage in, solicit, negotiate for, or promise to accept private employment or render services for private interest when such employment or service creates a conflict with or impairs the proper discharge of his official duties.
8. Future employment: He/she shall not, after the termination of service or employment with such district, appear before any board or agency of the district in relation to any case, proceeding, or application in which he/she personally participated during the period of his/her service or employment or which was under his active consideration.
Nothing herein shall be deemed to bar or prevent the timely filing by a present or former officer or employee of any claim, account, demand or suit against the district or any agency thereof on behalf of himself or any member of his family arising out of any personal injury or property damage or for any lawful benefit authorized or permitted by law.
The Superintendent of Schools shall cause a copy of the Board's Code of Ethics and this accompanying regulation to be distributed to every officer and employee of the school district. Each officer and employee elected or appointed thereafter shall be furnished a copy before entering upon the duties of his or her office or employment. In addition, the Superintendent shall ensure that a copy of Article 18 of the General Municipal Law shall be kept posted in each public building under the district's jurisdiction in a place conspicuous to the district's officers and employees.
In addition to any penalty contained in any other provision of law, any person who shall knowingly and intentionally violate any of the provisions of the Board's code of ethics and its accompanying regulation may be fined, suspended or removed from office or employment, as the case may be, in the manner provided by law.
General Municipal Law, Article 18
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2200 Policy Number: 2210 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
BOARD REORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
The Board of Education recognizes its obligation to hold an annual reorganizational meeting. The purpose of the reorganizational meeting shall be to elect officers of the Board and make the proper appointments and designations of other district employees for the proper management of the school district during the school year. The Board shall also perform such annual functions as are designated by law.
The annual reorganizational meeting shall be held in a district building during the first fifteen days of July at 7:30 p.m. The day shall be fixed by the Board at a regular meeting not later than the June meeting each year. The Clerk shall give at least three days written notice to each member.
After the meeting is called to order, the Board will designate the Clerk of the Board as temporary chairperson.
I. Administration of Oath
The District Clerk shall administer the oath of office to newly-elected Board members. Such oath shall conform to Article XIII-1 of the New York State Constitution, and Section 10 of the Public Officers Law; the Clerk shall countersign the oath. No new Board member shall be permitted to vote until he/she has taken the oath of office.
The Board shall elect a president and vice-president for the ensuing year, and administer the oath of office to them. A majority of all members of the Board shall be necessary for a valid election. The newly elected president shall then chair the meeting.
The Board shall appoint:
Such other positions as deemed necessary
Title IX/Section 504 Hearing Officer(s)
IV. Bonding of Personnel
The Board may bond the following personnel handling district funds:
District Clerk School Attorney
Tax Collector Internal Claims Auditor
District Treasurer Deputy Treasurer
Central Treasurer of Student Activity Account
The Board may, in each instance, specify the amount of the bond it intends to obtain.
The Board may include any of the above officers in a blanket undertaking, pursuant to law and Commissioner’s Regulations, rather than bond individuals.
V. Designations
By motion, the Board shall designate:
The Board shall fix the place, date, and hour for regular Board meetings for the school year.
VI. Authorizations:
a. of person to certify payrolls
b. of school purchasing agent
c. of attendance at conferences, conventions, workshops, etc., with designated expenses
d. to establish petty cash funds (and to set amount of such funds)
e. to designate authorized signatures on checks
f. of Superintendent of Schools to approve budget transfers
VII. Other Items:
a. establish rate for mileage reimbursement
The Board shall then adjourn to regular monthly meeting.
New York State Constitution, Article XIII, §1
Public Officers Law §§10; 13
Education Law §§1707; 1804(4); 2130
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2200 Policy Number: 2220 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The President and Vice-President of the Board of Education shall be elected by members of the Board at the annual reorganization meeting in July.
Duties of the President of the Board
It shall be the duty of the President to preside at all meetings of the Board, to receive all communications presented to the Board, to sign as required all documents on its behalf unless otherwise ordered by the Board, and in the absence of the District Clerk, to appoint a District Clerk pro tempore.
The President shall have a vote upon all questions and shall have the right to take part in the debate on any question under consideration.
The Vice-President shall carry on the duties of the President in the event of the President’s absence or inability to serve.
New York State Constitution, Article 13 §2
Local Finance Law §2.00(5)(e)
Education Law §§1709; 2105(6); 2502; 2504; 2553; 2563; 2590-b
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2200 Policy Number: 2230 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The Board of Education shall appoint a District Clerk for a period of one year, from July 1 through June 30 of each year. Such appointment will be made at the reorganizational meeting. The District Clerk will be responsible for the following:
1. Minutes of Board of Education meetings:
• record all formal actions;
• record a brief summary of discussions;
• submit minutes of previous meeting to Board for approval; and
• maintain a permanent minutes book located on school property.
2. Minutes of special school district meetings:
• record all formal action;
• submit minutes of previous meetings to Board for approval; and
• place a copy of the approved minutes in the permanent minutes book.
3. Voting at special school district meetings:
• shall supervise poll registration.
• signs official documents and correspondence of the district;
• supervises the placing of legal notices as required; and
• receives and reports any appeals, answers, orders of the Commissioner, etc., to the Board.
• keeps all oaths of office;
• signs the warrant after the Board has authorized payment of bills; and
• authorizes the use of the school seal as necessary.
The Board shall also appoint a District Treasurer for a term of one year from July 1 through June 30. General duties are as follows:
1. Custodian of all district monies except for the extra-curricular activities fund. He/she shall report monthly to the Board.
2. Supervises the receipts and disbursements of district monies.
3. Supervises the tax collection procedure.
4. Is responsible for the issuance of checks and invoices.
5. Supervises the bookkeeping system in accordance with the Uniform System of Accounts for School Districts.
6. Presents a monthly budget status report.
The District Treasurer is to be bonded in an amount fixed and approved by the Board of Education.
The Tax Collector position is a one-year paid position appointed by the Board from July 1 through June 30. General duties are as follows:
1. On receipt of the warrant and tax roll from the District Clerk, the Tax Collector will issue bills, collect and receive money, give legal notice, and maintain the tax roll.
2. At the end of the tax collection period, the Tax Collector will prepare a listing of unpaid taxes to be submitted to the Board and returned to the county.
3. Monies received will be deposited daily in the bank depository.
4. Procedures for the collection and handling of money will be subject to the approval of the District Treasurer.
5. The Tax Collector is to be bonded in an amount fixed and approved by the Board.
The financial records of the district will be reviewed annually by an independent auditor appointed by the Board in conformance with the Education Law.
Education Law §§902; 2116-a; 2121; 2122; 2130
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2200 Policy Number: 2250 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The Board of Education may establish standing committees whose membership will consist of members of the Board. The Board president shall serve as ex-officio member of all committees and the Superintendent of Schools will provide advice and support to all committees. Board committees shall not act on behalf of the Board and the Board may terminate a standing committee at any time. Such committees shall be established by the Board or by the president of the Board.
The Board may also establish temporary or ad hoc committees. The purpose and task of the committee shall be clearly defined by the Board and established by the Board or the Board president. The president shall serve as ex-officio member of all temporary committees and the Superintendent will provide advice and support to all committees. The committees may be terminated at any time by the Board. The membership of these committees will be determined by the Board.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2200 Policy Number: 2265 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
SHARED DECISION-MAKING AND STRUCTURED PARTICIPATION
The Board of Education has adopted a Plan for Shared Decision-Making and Structured Participation that provides a structural framework of powers and responsibilities to further the implementation of the ideal of shared decision-making with the community to improve education in our schools.
A copy of the Plan shall be available at each school and at the district office; individual copies of the plan will be provided upon request.
Every two years, the Board shall review the Plan to determine its effectiveness and to recertify or amend the plan, as needed. Any amendment or recertification of the plan will be developed and adopted in accordance with section 100.11 of the Regulations of the Commissioner.
The amended or recertified plan, together with a statement of the plan's success in achieving its objectives, shall be submitted to the Commissioner of Education for approval no later than February 1st of each year in which biennial review takes place. The first such review shall have been submitted to the Commissioner no later than February 1, 1996.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2200 Policy Number: 2265-R Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
SHARED DECISION-MAKING AND STRUCTURED PARTICIPATION REGULATION
The following Plan for Shared Decision-Making and Structured Participation was developed and adopted in accordance with section 100.11 of the Regulations of the Commissioner and Board of Education Policy #2265 to provide a structural framework of powers and responsibilities to further the implementation of the ideal of shared decision-making with the community to improve education in our schools.
I. BUILDING LEVEL PLANNING TEAMS (BLPT)
Composition and Selection of the Teams
1. The Building Principal, who serves as Chairperson.
2. Parents/citizens, as chosen by the PTSO, a majority of whom are parents of children at those grade levels.
3. Teachers, as chosen by the RTA.
4. Students (at the secondary level), as chosen by their peers.
5. Non-instructional staff, as chosen by A.N.I.E.
Length of term is determined by the choosing organization.
A member who misses three consecutive meetings shall be subject to removal from the Committee.
Vacancies are filled by the choosing organization.
Meeting schedules are to be determined by the individual Building Level Planning Teams, except that there shall not be fewer than one meeting per month during the academic year.
Decision - Making Authority
The BLPTs may make decisions and/or recommendations in the introduction, development, and implementation of specific action plans, thought to be necessary ,in conjunction with the Principal, the Superintendent, the Board of Education and the Comprehensive District Education Plan (CDEP), to increase student achievement, and/or improve school culture. The BLPTs shall have the authority to conduct research and gather information from all stakeholder groups as necessary to implement school-improvement plans which support the District’s CDEP mission, vision, and core values as they relate to each individual school.
All plans to improve student learning outcomes and achievement must define expected results and desired standards and the improvements measured against these standards. The means for assessment are dependent upon the nature of the individual improvement proposal.
Limitations on the BLPT’s Decision - Making Authority
Decision-making authority rests jointly with the BLPT as a committee and not with individual BLPT members.
II. COMPREHENSIVE DISTRICT EDUCATION PLAN (CDEP) TEAM
Composition and Selection of the Comprehensive District Education Plan (CDEP) Team
1. The Director of Curriculum and Instruction, who serves as Chairperson.
2. Teachers equitably representing each of the District’s three schools, as chosen by the RTA.
3. Parents/citizens, chosen by the PTSO.
4. Non-instructional staff, chosen by A.N.I.E.
5 Administrators representing each of the District’s three schools, the Director of Special Education, and the Superintendent of Schools.
6. Board pf Education member, chosen by the Board of Education.
Maintenance of membership is determined by the choosing organization.
Vacancies are filled by the choosing organization as needed.
The District CDEP Team will meet at least three times a year to review intermediate data collected for each implementation activity according to their respective timelines outlined in the CDEP Goal Activities Chart in order to monitor effectiveness of the activities in progression toward the annual goals.
The CDEP Team may make decisions and/or recommendations to the Superintendent, and then to the Board of Education, in the introduction, development, and implementation of specific action as necessary to support the implementation of the Board-adopted Comprehensive District Education Plan (CDEP). The CDEP Team shall have the authority to conduct research and gather information from all stakeholder groups as necessary to implement school-improvement plans which support the District’s CDEP mission, vision, and core values as they relate to each individual school.
The Goal benchmarks and schedule of activities may be revised at any time throughout the year based upon the District CDEP Team’s consensus agreement that alternate steps are required in order to achieve progress. Revision to the CDEP plan will be communicated accordingly to the community of stakeholders. At least annually, the Goals, Objectives, and activities will be revised and implemented, subject to approval by the Board of Education, based upon NYS Student
Achievement Data, Local Data, and Intermediate Data Evaluation of activities.
According to the implementation timeline, the CDEP Team will evaluate all relevant student achievement data. The CDEP Team will provide the appropriate data to the various committees outlined in the Plan for their review and recommendations. Each year, the CDEP Team will review the recommendations provided by the various committees, enabling the CDEP Team to revise and update the CDEP plan as necessary.
Limitations on the CDEP Team’s Decision - Making Authority
Decision-making authority rests jointly with the CDEP Team as a committee and not with individual CDEP members.
III. DISTRICT STRATEGIC PLANNING TEAM (DSPT)
The District Strategic Planning Team will be an ad hoc subcommittee of the Comprehensive District Education Plan (CDEP) Committee that will report directly to the Board of Education.
Composition and Selection of the District Strategic Planning Team
1. The superintendent of schools;
2. At least one (1) teacher, as chosen by the RTA;
3. At least one (1) administrator, as chosen by the RAA;
4. At least one (1) student, as chosen by the high school principal:
5. At least one (1) non-instructional staff member, as chosen by A.N.I.E.; and
6. At least one (1) parent/citizen, as chosen by the PTSO,
The chairperson will be selected by the DSPT from within their own membership.
Members shall serve a one year term, but may serve subsequent one year terms if approved by the CDEP Committee and the appropriate stakeholder group.
A member who misses three consecutive meetings shall be subject to removal from the DSPT.
Vacancies will be filled with volunteers from the CDEP Committee from each of the stakeholder groups outlined above. In addition, the DSPT also can be populated with volunteers from among the ranks of the appropriate stakeholder groups as outlined above.
The meeting schedule shall be determined by the Committee, except that there will be no fewer than two meetings during each academic year. Meetings shall be announced at least five days in advance and are open to the public. The meetings of the Committee will attempt to provide for an appropriate and orderly means for receiving public input. Nonetheless, these are meetings of the Committee in public, not public meetings.
Decision-making authority exists with the DSPT for the on-going oversight of the District’s plan and process for shared decision-making and school-based planning. This includes making recommendations to the Board of Education for their amendment or recertification of the plan, as well as the development of a statement of the plan's success in achieving its objectives, no later than the date every other year by which the Commissioner of Education determines that required biennial review be completed and submitted.
Limitations of DSPT Decision-Making Authority
Decision-making authority rests jointly with the DSPT as a committee and not with individual members DSPT members.
A quorum shall consist of one half of the members plus one.
IV. PROCESS OF APPEALING DSPT, BLPT, and CDEP TEAM DECISIONS
Persons Eligible to Appeal
1. Any resident of the school district.
2. Any parent of a student enrolled in the district
3. Any student enrolled in the district.
4. Any employee of the district.
1. Individuals who are eligible must first make an appeal to the DSPT, the BLPT (whichever made the decision being appealed) and/or the CDEP Team in writing for reconsideration of the issue. The decision of the DSPT/BLPT/CDEP Team must be addressed in writing to the appellant no later than 10 school days from the date of the next regularly scheduled meeting.
2. If the decision of the DSPT, the BLPT, ands/or the CDEP Team is not satisfactory to the appellant, an appeal may be made to the Superintendent. The Superintendent must respond in writing within 10 school days from the receipt of the appeal.
3. If the decision of the Superintendent is not satisfactory to the appellant, an appeal may be made in writing to the Board. The Board shall convey its decision in writing to the appellant not less than 30 days after the next regularly scheduled Board meeting.
The Board of Education’s decision is final.
APPENDIX: DISTRICT MISSION, VISION AND CORE VALUES
A. MISSION STATEMENT: The Rhinebeck Central School District is an educational community that provides an excellent learning environment and is dedicated to the development of every student’s generosity of spirit, passion for learning, and ultimate success.
B. VISION STATEMENT: The Rhinebeck Central School District meets the changing needs of our community with courageous programming consistent with State Standards and mindful of best learning practices. Each student enjoys an enriching experience while mastering the skills and knowledge to reach his or her maximum potential. We educate our students to become self-directed learners, complex thinkers, collaborative workers, quality producers, community contributors, and ethical decision-makers.
C. CORE VALUES: We believe that a quality education includes:
· Safety and Health: Students and staff need a healthy and safe environment.
· Resources: Appropriate facilities, equipment, and materials are required for a successful educational program.
· Respect: We respect and honor the dignity and worth of ourselves, others, and our environment.
· Responsibility: Each person is responsible for what they do and what they say.
· Courage: Courage is required to grow, change, take risks, and make commitments.
· Integrity: Personal integrity develops as one attends to and becomes increasingly ethical in one’s speech and actions. Adults model this process.
· Whole Child: In order for students to be successful, their emotional, social, physical, and academic needs must be met.
· Collaboration: The education of our students is a process involving the entire educational community: students, teachers, administrators, non-instructional staff, Board of Education, families, and the community at large.
· Student Achievement: Continuous growth and improvement occur when there is use of best practices, and articulated/aligned curriculum and pertinent data.
· Recognition: Acknowledging and celebrating successes, large and small, nurtures growth and a sense of community.
Adoption Date 2009-01-16
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2200 Policy Number: 2270 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The Board of Education will appoint a School Attorney for the district, who will act as attorney and legal advisor to the Board and perform related work as required. The School Attorney will serve pursuant to a yearly retainer agreement or at will subject to the pleasure of a majority of the Board.
The School Attorney shall have thorough knowledge of the laws, regulations, rules, practices and policies governing the administration of a school district and must be admitted to the bar of New York State.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2200 Policy Number: 2270.1 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2300 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
All Board of Education meetings must be open to the public. A “meeting” is defined as an official convening of a public body for the purposes of conducting public business, and “public body” is an entity which requires a quorum to conduct business, including committees, subcommittees, or similar divisions of a public body.
Whenever such a meeting is to take place, there must be advance notice of the meeting, and recording of the minutes.
If a question is raised, the chair will rule upon it without debate.
A quorum is equal to half the membership of the full Board plus one.
The chairperson shall be the president, the vice-president in the president’s absence, or any member elected by the majority present in the absence of the president and vice-president.
Official minutes will be kept for all meetings by the Clerk of the Board. They are a legal record of the activities of the Board as a public body. These minutes will be action minutes unless a Board member requests his/her statement recorded verbatim. Copies of official minutes will be sent to members of the Board prior to the next regular meeting. Copies of the minutes will be available to the public within two weeks after the date of the meeting; draft copies so marked are acceptable.
In order to pass, a resolution needs the affirmative vote of the majority of the Board regardless of the number of Board members present, unless specifically changed by law. The following are some motions requiring a vote of the Board other than by majority:
1. replace textbooks that were adopted less than five years earlier, 3/4 vote (at least six votes);
2. the hiring of a relative (by blood or marriage) of a Board member as a teacher or in a non-certified position, 2/3 vote (at least five votes) ; and
3. standardization of an item or piece of equipment for purchase contracts over $10,000, 3/5 vote (at least five votes).
All committees of the district must abide by the provisions of the Open Meetings Law regarding open meetings. This includes committees of the Board of Education, School Facilities Committees, and the like.
Such committees must meet publicly, go into executive session only on a motion and only for one of the permitted topics, give advance notice of meetings and make public minutes, and otherwise comply with all requirements of the law.
The Board, as a group of citizens from the community, needs to run its meetings in a way that does not seriously disrupt the normal working habits of its members. Therefore, it shall be the policy of the Board to conduct its meetings so that the meetings do not run beyond 11:00 p.m.
Open Meetings Law, Public Officers Law §§100 et seq.
General Municipal Law §103(5)
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2310 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
Regular meetings of the Board of Education will be designated at the reorganizational meeting in July. The date, time or place of the regular meeting may be changed by the consent of a majority of the Board. The Superintendent or the Clerk shall give written notice of the change to each Board member.
Board meetings must be held within the school district limits.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2320 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
Special meetings may be called by the President or by any member of the Board of Education. Written notice is required to each Board member and the Superintendent at least 24 hours prior to the time of the meeting. The notice shall state the purpose of the special meeting, and no other business shall be transacted at the meeting except by unanimous consent of the Board.
An emergency meeting may be called by the President without prior notice or delay. In such case, each member may be asked to sign a waiver of notice. A statement regarding the time of notice and signature of such forms shall be entered in the minutes. Any action taken shall be subject to reconsideration at the next regular meeting unless all members were present at the emergency meeting.
Education Law §§1606; 2504; 2563
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2330 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The Board of Education reserves the right, within the constraints of state law, to meet in executive session. Such sessions can be requested by any member of the Board or the Superintendent of Schools.
A Board member must make a motion during an open meeting to convene in executive session. Upon a majority vote of its members, the Board may convene in executive session at a place which the Board President or said members may designate within the district to discuss the subjects enumerated below. Matters which may be considered in executive session are:
1. matters which will imperil the public safety if disclosed;
3. information relating to current or future investigation or prosecution of a criminal offense which would imperil effective law enforcement if disclosed;
6. the medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation;
7. the preparation, grading or administration of examinations; and
8. the proposed acquisition, sale, or lease of real property or the proposed acquisition of securities, or sale or exchange of securities, but only when publicity would substantially affect the value thereof.
9. discussions concerning probable cause to bring disciplinary charges against a tenured teacher; and
10. discussions concerning the evaluation and/or placement of students with disabilities.
Formal action or vote on matters enumerated in paragraphs 9 and 10 above may only be taken by the Board during an executive session. No formal action or vote may be taken on any other matter. The Board shall reconvene in open session to take final action on other matters discussed, and to adjourn the meeting.
Education Law §1708 (3)
Public Officers Law §§100 et seq.
Formal Opinion of Counsel No. 239, 16 EDR 457 (1976)
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2340 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
In accordance with state law, notice of meetings shall be sent to all members of the Board, Superintendent of Schools, District Treasurer, and to the newspapers of the district. The time, date and place of regular Board meetings is established at the Reorganizational Meeting. If a meeting is scheduled at least a week in advance, notice must be given to the public by posting in one or more designated public places not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting.
When a meeting is scheduled less than a week in advance the Board shall provide public notice to the extent practicable. Said notice shall be conspicuously posted in one or more designated public locations.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2341.1 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
In order to expedite Board of Education business concerning routine matters, the Board may use a “consent” agenda as desired to collapse routine matters into a consent motion.
The following guidelines are to be used for the consent motion process:
1. Any Board member can request that an item on the consent agenda be removed from the consent agenda. The chair will honor that request without question.
2. The item removed will lapse back into the regular agenda format. Any further action on that item would need to be done consistent with district parliamentary procedure.
3. Items for the consent agenda shall be those regular, routine items as shall be deemed appropriate by counsel and shall consist of, but not be limited to, the following:
• CSE recommendations;
• routine business matters such as warrants and claims; and
• items of a “regular routine” definition which the Board wishes to put on consent and which counsel agrees are appropriate.
4. Board members seeking further clarification on consent items are encouraged to inquire prior to the meeting.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2342 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The agenda and preparation for meetings shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent of Schools and the President. The District Clerk shall notify each Board member of the agenda. Such notice shall be delivered to each Board member at least two days before the scheduled meeting.
Board members, employees of the school district, and citizens may suggest agenda items by contacting the Superintendent. The agenda, however, shall always allow for recognition and comments by members of the public.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2350 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
Last Revised 2006-10-10
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2351 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
A majority of the members of the Board of Education shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of the business of a regular meeting. Should there be fewer than four members of the Board present at a regular meeting, a time for the new meeting shall be set by the members present and such meeting shall be deemed a regular meeting. Notice of rescheduled meetings shall be given to absent members pursuant to Policy 2340, Notice of Meetings.
Final action on any resolution shall be valid only upon vote of the majority of the total membership of the Board.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2352 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
Robert's Rules of Order, Revised shall govern all business procedures except where in conflict with adopted Board of Education policy.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2360 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The Board of Education will maintain a complete and accurate set of minutes of each meeting. Such minutes shall constitute the official record of proceedings of the Board and shall be open to public inspection within one week of executive sessions and within two weeks of all other meetings. Minutes which have not been approved by the Board within this time frame shall be marked, "DRAFT." A draft of the minutes of each meeting is to be forwarded to each member of the Board not later than the time the agenda for the next meeting is disseminated.
All motions, proposals, resolutions, and any other matters formally voted upon by the Board shall be recorded in Board minutes. In recording such votes, the record shall indicate the final vote of each Board member.
If a Board member is not present at the opening of a meeting, the subsequent arrival time of such member shall be indicated in the minutes.
Freedom of Information Law, Public Officers Law §§84 et seq.
Education Law §2121
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2382 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
BROADCASTING AND TAPING OF BOARD MEETINGS
The use of any tape recording device at public meetings of the Board of Education or committee appointed thereby is permissible as long as the device is unobtrusive and will not distract from the true deliberative process of the Board. The Board President or chairperson of the committee shall be informed prior to the meeting that such recordings are being made.
The Board and/or the committee reserves the right to direct that a tape recording be made to ensure a reliable, accurate, and complete account of Board meetings.
The Board permits the broadcasting of public meetings of the Board or any of its committees as long as such broadcasting is done in a manner which is unobtrusive and does not interfere with the deliberative process of the body.
Mitchell v. Board of Education of Garden City UFSD, 113 AD2d 924 (1985)
People v. Ystueta, 99 Misc 2d 1105(1979)
Adoption Date 0000-00-00
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2300 Policy Number: 2390 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The Board of Education shall schedule public hearings in accordance with the law and on occasions when it wishes to gather information and seek opinions on important issues affecting the school district. The Board shall take no formal action at a public hearing.
The time and place of the hearings shall be designated in the notice of the hearing. All interested persons or their representatives shall have an opportunity to present facts, views, or arguments relative to ideas or proposals under consideration.
At the beginning of each hearing the Board may present information on the topic of the hearing. Speakers shall be required to give their name and address. Non-residents do not have the privilege of speaking at public hearings except when permission is granted by the chair.
Speakers at public meetings, generally, will be limited to three minutes for their presentation. However, this time limit may be adjusted by the chair if the size of the audience or the number of requests to speak is small and an increase in the time would not unduly extend the length of the hearing. Any adjustment in time shall apply to all speakers from the audience.
Any speaker who is out of order may be cautioned by the chair. If such remarks or behavior persists, the speaker's privilege to address the Board may be terminated.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2400 Policy Number: 2410 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
FORMULATION, ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT OF POLICIES
The formulation and adoption of written policies shall constitute one method by which the Board shall exercise its leadership in the operation of the district.
Application of such policies to individual problems and tasks is an administrative function to be performed by the Superintendent of Schools. The Superintendent shall, in turn, when he/she deems necessary, or when directed by the Board, prepare written regulations to ensure the implementation of the policy.
The Superintendent in cooperation with any group he/she deems necessary shall recommend policies for adoption and recommend revision of existing policies. The Board may direct the Superintendent to prepare or revise a policy.
Specific policy proposals and suggested amendments to or revisions of existing policies shall be submitted to all members of the Board in writing prior to a regularly scheduled Board meeting. No policy or amendment or revision shall be adopted unless it has been read and discussed at a Board of Education meeting prior to the meeting at which it is adopted. Policies may be adopted through formal resolution by a majority vote of the Board.
It shall be the duty of the Board to reappraise its policies periodically, in view of the changing law, needs of the community and schools.
Education Law §§1604(a); 1709(1); 1804
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2400 Policy Number: 2420 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
BOARD ADOPTED REGULATIONS - ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS
Administrative regulations are the detailed arrangements governing the operation of the schools. Administrative regulations are to be formulated by the Superintendent of Schools or the Superintendent’s designee. Administrative regulations must be consistent with the policies adopted by the Board of Education.
Board bylaws may be adopted, amended or repealed by the affirmative vote of the majority of the full membership of the Board after previous notice. Such notice must be given in writing at the preceding regular meeting. Such notice may be waived by unanimous consent at any regular meeting at which the full membership of the Board is present.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2400 Policy Number: 2440 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
In cases in which action must be taken where the Board of Education has provided no guidelines for administrative action, the Superintendent of Schools shall have the power to act, but his/her decisions shall be subject to review by the Board at its regular meeting. It shall be the duty of the Superintendent to inform the Board promptly of such action and of the need for policy.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2400 Policy Number: 2450 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The Board of Education recognizes the need for widespread familiarity with district policies, and therefore directs the Superintendent of Schools to implement the following:
1. maintain an updated policy manual that takes precedence over all previous manuals, and be responsible for its presence at all Board meetings;
2. issue to each Board member, for the duration of his/her term, a complete and updated policy manual in an appropriate binder;
3. ensure that personnel are familiar with Board policies and administrative regulations which affect them, directly or indirectly. The Board requires that all employees sign a statement that they have read and understood the policy manual, or appropriate sections thereof;
4. disseminate Board policies and manuals to all concerned, as he/she deems appropriate and/or necessary; and
5. place a copy of the Board policy manual in the high school library, district offices, and the public library to ensure that district policies are available to the public.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2400 Policy Number: 2460 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The Board of Education will evaluate the effect of its policies and the manner in which they have been implemented by the administration. In such evaluation, the Board may call upon staff, students and community participation.
The Board directs the Superintendent of Schools to bring to its attention any policy areas in need of revision or new development. The Board shall review the entire manual at least once every three years to ensure that the manual is up-to-date. The Board shall note those policies which must be reviewed even more frequently (e.g., student conduct and discipline, investments and purchasing, which must be reviewed annually).
At the final meeting of the Board in June of each year, each Board member shall submit his/her copy of the Board policy manual to the Superintendent for updating and revisions. At the Annual Organizational Meeting, each Board member shall be provided with an up-to-date copy for use during the following year.
Board policy may be revised as outlined in Policy 2410, Formulation, Adoption and Amendment of Policy.
General Municipal Law, §§39; 104-b
8 NYCRR §100.2(1)(2)
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2500 Policy Number: 2510 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
The Board of Education and the Administrative staff shall assist each new Board member-elect to become familiar with and to understand the Board's functions, policies and procedures, and the school district's operation before taking office. Each Board member-elect shall, as soon as possible,
1. be provided access to selected materials covering the function of the Board and the school district, including (a) policy manual, (b) the School Law Handbook prepared by the New York State School Boards Association, and (g) any other materials which may be deemed helpful and informative;
2. be invited to attend all Board meetings and functions and to participate in discussion.
3. be invited to meet with the Superintendent of Schools and other administrative personnel to discuss the services that they perform for the school Board and the school district; and
4. attend the New York State School Boards Association's workshop for New School Board Members.
Last Revised 2014-07-08
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2500 Policy Number: 2520 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
In order to ensure the highest level of service to the citizens of the district in the performance of the responsibilities of the Board of Education, each Board member is expected to pursue the following activities during his/her tenure in office:
1. during the first year in office, he/she shall attend the New York State School Boards Association training session for new school board members;
2. during each year of service, the Superintendent shall arrange for a visit to each school building and for a meeting with the Principal and other staff to provide the members with insights into the nature of the program in that building and any special needs which may exist;
3. the Superintendent shall regularly provide each Board member with articles of importance about the public schools or about trends in educational practice; and
4. the Board shall annually review its operation and plan for appropriate in-service as a group.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2500 Policy Number: 2530 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
MEMBERSHIP IN SCHOOL BOARDS ASSOCIATIONS
The Board of Education shall maintain memberships in the Dutchess County School Boards Association, the New York State School Boards Association, and other organizations established for Boards of Education at its discretion.
Board members should take the responsibility to attend association meetings for the purpose of Board development and gathering new information.
Education Law §1618
General Municipal Law §77b
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2500 Policy Number: 2550 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
All expenses incurred by Board of Education members in connection with the duties of the Board shall be paid from school funds, as authorized by the Board.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2500 Policy Number: 2560 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
Members of the Board of Education shall be protected by liability insurance paid from school funds while acting within the scope of the authority of the Board.
Series: Series2000 Sub Series: 2700 Policy Number: 2700 Printer Friendly (opens in new window/tab)
BOARD-STAFF COMMUNICATIONS
In accordance with good personnel practice, staff participation in the development of educational and personnel policies will be encouraged and facilitated. The Superintendent of Schools, as professional leader of the staff and the chief executive of the Board, will develop appropriate methods to keep staff fully informed of the Board's problems, concerns and actions, and for staff to communicate information related to district operations.
All communications and reports to the Board from staff members and staff organizations will be submitted to the Board through the Superintendent. All official communications, policies, and directives of staff interest and concern will be communicated to staff members through the Superintendent. However, this will not be construed as denying the right of any staff member to appeal any action or decision of the Superintendent to the Board.
All effective means of facilitating channels of communication between the Board and staff will be explored in order to promote close and cooperative action for the continuing improvement of the educational program and the mutual benefit of the school system and the community.