ST. LOUIS BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY

INTERNAL BOARD POLICIES

METHODS OF OPERATION

Legislative Program

The board, as an agent of the state, must operate within the bounds of state and federal law affecting public education. If the board is to meet its inherent responsibility to the residents and students of the community, it must work vigorously for the passage of new laws designed to advance the cause of good schools and for the repeal or modification of existing laws that impede this cause. In fulfilling its leadership role in legislative affairs, the board:

1. will review current and proposed legislation brought to its attention by the External Affairs Committee, the Superintendent and by the National School Boards Association, the Missouri School Boards Association, and other organizations and will express positions on relevant legislative issues and communicate these positions to elected representatives;

2. will work with legislative representatives and other groups and agencies in developing legislation;

3. will work for the achievement of legislative objectives through the state and national school boards association and with other concerned groups;

4. will seek both direct and indirect representation of its position on pending legislation with appropriate state and federal legislators and legislative committees; and

5. may hire a lobbyist, public relations firm, or any other agent, to promote the board's position on legislation.

Policy adopted: February 9, 1999

Revised: February 22, 2000