| File: BBA
SCHOOL COMMITTEE POWERS AND DUTIES The School Committee has all the powers conferred upon it by state law and must perform those duties mandated by the state. These include the responsibility and right to determine policies and practices and to employ a staff to implement its directions for the proper education of the children of the community. The committee takes a broad view of its functions. It sees them as: 1. Legislative or policy making: The committee is responsible for the development of policy as guides for administrative action and for employing a Superintendent who will implement its policies. 2. Financial planning: The committee is responsible for approving a budget which will provide the financial resources enabling the school system to cany out the programs and policies approved by the School Committee. 3. Appraisal: The committee, through the study of facts and conditions, in responsible for evaluating the educational product in relation to getting the maximum benefits from the resources provided. 4. Public relations: The committee is responsible for providing adequate and direct means for keeping the local citizenry informed about the schools and for keeping itself and the school staff informed about the needs and wishes of the public. 5. Educational planning and evaluation: The committee is responsible for establishing educational objectives that will guide the committee and the staff goals and working together for the continuing improvement of the educational program. LEGAL REF.: M.G.L. 71:37 specifically, but powers and duties of School Committees are established throughout the Massachusetts General Laws. Agawam City Charter, 4-3 CROSS REF.: BB School Committee Legal Status Agawam Public Schools |