Mission/General Information:
Membership: Currently the Board of Education has 10 elected members, six from Southbury and four from Middlebury, who serve four-year terms. The Superintendent of Schools and three student representatives are nonvoting members of the board. Meets twice a month except during midsummer.
Powers and Duties: BOE members are responsible for all education and school related policies and procedures, as well as teacher contracts. In monitoring the implementation of policy, a clear understanding of the differences between policy and administration is essential. BOE selects, directs and evaluates the regional superintendent, who is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the district. Board members prepare the region’s annual budget which includes payments for bonds or other capital indebtedness for land and buildings. They supervise the building of schools, including additions or renovations of buildings and the purchase of equipment. Members are expected to participate in meetings, discussions, public hearings, workshops and retreats. They authorize the purchase, lease or rental of property for school purposes.
Qualifications: Candidates should have a strong commitment to quality public education and be able to balance education values with the fiscal abilities of the towns. An understanding of the extensive time commitment involved is required. Because criticism and conflict occur, BOE members need to be tolerant and respectful of opposing opinions. Members come from a wide variety of backgrounds with experience in financial matters, education, community affairs, human resources, education, legal matters and management.