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Ask Betsy - Frequently Asked Questions

Betsy Miller-Jones answers some common (and not so common) questions about running board meetings. Don't see the answer to your question? Ask Betsy!

Legal Disclaimer: The information contained on this site should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice regarding your particular situation, please seek the advice of OSBA’s legal services or independent counsel.

 

The most recent questions are listed below.

How can the board use sub-committees to improve the way it does business? - 3/08/10

Can we convene executive session to discuss renewal of staff and administrators? - 2/16/10

How much detail should be included in our executive session minutes? - 2/01/10

If the board convenes a meeting to hear a complaint against someone, can that person being complained about be excluded from the meeting? - 1/19/10

Does the superintendent's formal evaluation report have to be released if requested by any member of the public? - 1/06/10

Our board has just passed a resolution supporting Measures 66 and 67. What are the restrictions on the district’s involvement in reporting that action, including information in print materials such as the district newsletter, and advocacy by staff members? - 12/21/09

What guidelines apply to gifts given by parents or students to teachers, or by staff members and employees and board members to each other? - 12/08/09

May we keep the audio tapes of our meetings as the only official minutes? - 12/01/09

Can a board add an executive session to an agenda after the meeting has started, even if the executive session wasn't included on the original meeting posting? - 11/03/09

What rules have to be followed for retaining board member emails regarding school district business? - 10/21/09

Can the board discuss setting district goals while attending OSBA's November convention in Portland? - 10/14/09

How long before the meeting does a special meeting have to be posted? - 7/23/09

How long do we have to keep the audio tapes of our board meetings? - 6/30/09

Can a part-time athletic coach serve on the school board? - 6/19/09

Is the school board required by law to hold a July board meeting? - 6/11/09