CHENANGO COUNTY – What does it take to be a school board member? What are the roles and responsibilities of those serving on a board of education? Answering these questions and more will be the focus of two free forums next week sponsored by The Chenango Foundation.
“As schools across New York State face unprecedented budget challenges, it is more important than ever to have dedicated community members willing and able to step forward to take leadership roles on district school boards,” explained the organization’s chairperson, Kevin Walsh.
According to Walsh, the foundation’s board of directors recognize the importance of school board service and the support of public education.
“It is equally important to ensure prospective school board members have a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the board and its members,” he explained.
In the fall, the organization formed a subcommittee to explore ways in which to educate those considering a run for their district’s board of education. The two forums – titled, “School Board Service: What community members and leaders should know” – were planned as a result, he explained.
The first of the two sessions is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 18 at the Greene High School auditorium. The second will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 19 at the DCMO BOCES Chenango Campus Dining Room.
Both will feature a panel comprised of Linda Bakst from the New York State School Board Association; William Tammaro, Superintendent of DCMO BOCES; and former Norwich City School Board member and Leadership Chenango Facilitator Judie Wright.
“While the focus is general in nature, there will be specific topics addressed with the intention of giving a more clear understanding of the intricacies of serving on a school board,” Walsh said.
Topics will include basic information on policies and procedures, budget and planning, the role of the school board and the time commitment required. Information will also be distributed regarding the number of seats up for election in each district, and the steps an individual must take to appear on the ballot.
Who should attend the forums? According to Walsh, anyone with an interest in learning more about serving on their district’s board of education.
“While the concept originated with the intention of prepping soon to be potential candidates, I would strongly encourage anyone with a consideration of serving as a school board member in the future to attend as well,” he added.
The events are free and open to the public, but advance registration is recommended. For more information on the program, or to pre-register, contact Jennifer Tavares at 334-5532 or via email at jtavares@chenangony.org.



Sidebar

Number of board seats open in each Chenango County school district

Afton 1 5-year term
1 4-year term (to fill appointment)

Bainbridge-Guilford 2 3-year terms

Gilbertsville-Mt. Upton 3 3-year terms

Greene 2 3-year terms

Norwich 2 3-year terms

Otselic Valley 1 5-year term

Oxford Academy 2 3-year terms

Sherburne-Earlville 3 3-year terms

Unadilla Valley 3 3-year terms
1 2-year term (to fill appointment)