This course provides school board members with a comprehensive introduction to the legal framework that governs public education in Michigan. Through an accessible overview of the Michigan School Code, participants will examine the statutory foundations that define the authority, responsibilities, and limitations of local boards of education. The course explores how state laws interact with board policies, administrative procedures, and district operations, helping board members understand not only what the law requires, but why these requirements exist and how they shape daily governance.
Learners will also dive into key legal issues that board members frequently encounter, including general liability, risk management, and the board’s role in ensuring a safe and legally compliant educational environment. The course examines conflict‑of‑interest rules and ethical obligations, equipping board members to identify, disclose, and navigate potential conflicts in a manner that upholds transparency and maintains public trust.
Additionally, participants will gain insight into administrator contracts, including superintendent agreements, evaluation requirements, contract renewal timelines, and the legal frameworks that govern hiring, discipline, and dismissal. The course concludes with an exploration of current trends and controversies in school law, helping board members stay informed about emerging issues—such as First Amendment challenges, student rights, special education compliance, and state or federal regulatory changes—that may impact district governance.
By the end of the course, participants will have a stronger understanding of the legal landscape that guides their decision‑making and will feel more confident navigating complex issues with professionalism and clarity.
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
Explain the foundational components of the Michigan School Code and describe how state statutes define the powers, duties, and limitations of local school boards.
Identify common areas of legal exposure and general liability for school districts, and articulate the board’s role in mitigating legal risks through policy and oversight.
Recognize, evaluate, and appropriately respond to conflict‑of‑interest scenarios, including financial interests, personal relationships, and ethical considerations that may compromise board integrity.
Interpret key legal concepts related to administrator and superintendent contracts, including statutory requirements, evaluation obligations, and legal procedures for renewal, non‑renewal, or termination.
Analyze current legal trends and controversies in school law—such as student rights issues, public meeting requirements, and emerging state/federal mandates—and apply this knowledge to informed, legally sound governance decisions.
