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School Board Member FAQs
Local school boards are a uniquely American institution and at the heart of this country’s public education system. A board’s existence is based on the belief that lay control of public education makes schools flexible and responsive to the needs of the local community. #KeepEducationLocal
How often does a school board meet?
It varies. Boards must meet at least once a month during the school year. Many boards regularly meet twice a month year-round and call special meetings as needed.
Will I get paid?
No. Members may be reimbursed for travel and subsistence expenses for authorized school purposes.
As a board member, can I be held personally liable for legal claims against the board or the school district?
As a general rule, no. By state law, governing board members cannot be held liable for actions taken in good faith and within the scope of their authority. Boards also may receive legal counsel to advise them, and the liability insurance of most, if not all, organizations covers board members who are acting in their official capacity. A governing board member is not immune from liability, however, if he or she:
- Acts outside the scope of authority;
- Knows (or should have known) that an action violates a person’s constitutional rights;
- Engages in criminal activity;
- Commits an intentional tort, such as assault, or
- Violates the open meeting or conflict of interest laws.
Can my company do business with the school district if I am a board member?
Yes, but a board member cannot vote on matters in which he or she has a conflict of interest, and, in most circumstances, a board member’s company may seek only contracts offered by competitive bidding. The conflict of interest restrictions applicable to governing board members vary if the district’s enrollment is greater or less than 3,000 students.
What happens if I move out of the district while I hold office?
Governing board members must reside in their district to hold office. When notified that a member has moved from the district, the county superintendent can fill the vacancy by appointment or by calling a special election.
