In Illinois, public education is the state’s constitutional responsibility. The state delegates to local school boards the authority to govern school districts within the parameters set by state law. Boards of education consist of seven school district residents elected to serve four-year terms without pay. Although the board is politically responsible to district voters, it is legally responsible to the state. Questions about the Yorkville CUSD 115 Board of Education, its role and the operation of the school district may be directed to the superintendent or members of the board. No single member of the board has the authority to act independently of the full board of education on official district business. Individual board members may request that items be added to the agenda. However, the agenda is set at the discretion of the board president, in partnership with the superintendent.

What is the board’s role?

• Develop and adopt goals and policies that meet state and local requirements
• Employ and direct, through policy, the district’s superintendent of schools
• Provide the resources necessary to pursue its goals according to its policies
• Monitor district performance to see that results are consistent with goals and policies

What are the board’s primary duties?

• Evaluate the superintendent
• Approve curriculum and resources
• Approve personnel and salaries
• Provide and maintain school buildings
• Award contracts and approve bills
• Arrange for the revenue necessary to operate the district

What training do board members receive?

Board members are required to complete training on professional development leadership, school finance, the Open Meetings Act, and evaluations. The board also conducts periodic self-evaluations with the goal of continuous improvement.