School Board Overview

Article VIII, Section 7, of the Constitution of Virginia establishes the legal basis for local school boards by providing that, "The supervision of schools in each school division shall be vested in a school board to be composed of members selected in the manner, for the term, possessing the qualifications, and to the number provided by law."

In the City of Roanoke, School Board members are appointed by City Council for a three-year term of office. The terms of the seven-member Board are staggered, and no more than three Board seats are appointed each year. Board members may apply for reappointment to the Board and serve a maximum of three three-year terms.

The City Clerk's Office can provide information regarding the qualifications required of a prospective Board member.

 
School Board Duties and Responsibilities

The School Board shall:

Provide a program of quality instruction.

Manage and direct the school system through the employment and evaluation of the superintendent, establishment of policy, and monitoring of budget, bond elections, fiscal accounting, tax and debt management, and plant construction and renovation.

Guide the school system through the adoption of policies related to fiscal management, facilities development, personnel, instruction, students, and school/community/education agency relations. Enhance communications between community and staff by ensuring the public understands school system goals and programs; secure public support for the schools; promote the public's presence in the schools; establish effective communications with staff; encourage citizen attendance at Board meetings; and ensure response to public concerns.