1620 - The Board-Superintendent Relationship Policy

Policy 1620

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

The Board- Superintendent Relationship 

As the legally designated governing body, the board retains final authority within the district. The board exercises powers expressly required and implied by law. The superintendent is the board’s professional advisor, to whom the board delegates executive responsibility, including such powers required to manage the district in a manner consistent with board policy and state and federal law. 

The superintendent, as an executive officer of the board (secretary), is responsible for the administration of the schools under applicable laws and policies of the district. The board delineates the duties of the superintendent and uses them as the basis for evaluating the superintendent’s performance. Unless specifically limited, the superintendent may delegate to other staff the exercise of any powers and the discharge of any duties imposed by district policy or a vote of the board. The delegation of power or duty does not relieve the superintendent of responsibility for the actions taken under such a delegation. 

In order to perform their responsibilities, board members must be familiar with the operations within the schools. The superintendent will establish communication procedures which can enhance the board member’s understanding of student programs and school operations. 

Legal Reference:    
RCW 28A.320.010    Corporate powers 
RCW 28A.330.050    Duties of superintendent as secretary of the board 
RCW 28A.400.010    Employment of superintendent – Superintendent’s qualifications, general powers, term, contract renewal 
RCW 28A.400.030    Superintendent’s duties 
RCW 28A.330.100    Additional powers of board 

Adoption Date:     January 23, 2018