Seems to me that the $15,000 a county pays to VSBA covers legal fees is reason alone to stay in VSBA absent compelling reason not to. Haven’t heard any compelling reasons.
As I understand it, the VSBA does not handle all legal matters that a school board encounters, but it reviews hundreds of new education policy statements coming out of Richmond and provides sample text that school boards can then use as-is or edit, for inclusion in their board by-laws. Each school system must follow the state's lead on education policies. Without the VSBA, a school board must get help from someone who can analyze and interpret the policy--and beware if you don't do this right. Further, the VSBA does provide assistance and some insurance coverage for other legal matters.
Loved your coverage and micro view of a macro conflict. Also loved Ellen Wessel’s smackdown via the legacy of James Madison.
Thanks for your comment, Mariah. It really is a micro/macro situation, one taking place in counties all over Virginia and beyond.
Hilary. You are the Heather Cox Richardson of Orange County! We need you!
Thanks, Will! That's high praise!
Seems to me that the $15,000 a county pays to VSBA covers legal fees is reason alone to stay in VSBA absent compelling reason not to. Haven’t heard any compelling reasons.
As I understand it, the VSBA does not handle all legal matters that a school board encounters, but it reviews hundreds of new education policy statements coming out of Richmond and provides sample text that school boards can then use as-is or edit, for inclusion in their board by-laws. Each school system must follow the state's lead on education policies. Without the VSBA, a school board must get help from someone who can analyze and interpret the policy--and beware if you don't do this right. Further, the VSBA does provide assistance and some insurance coverage for other legal matters.