Butte School District

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

1240

Duties of Individual Trustees

The authority of individual trustees is limited to participating in actions taken by the Board as a whole when legally in session. Trustees shall not assume responsibilities of administrators or other staff members. The Board or staff shall not be bound by an action taken or statement made by an individual trustee, except when such statement or action is pursuant to specific instructions and official action taken by the Board.

Each trustee shall review the agenda and any study materials distributed prior to the meeting and be prepared to participate in the discussion and decision-making for each agenda item.

Unless exempt under Montana law, each trustee shall visit assigned schools not less than once per year to examine their management, conditions, and needs in accordance with the procedures adopted at Policy 1520.

Each member is obligated to attend Board meetings regularly. Whenever possible, each trustee shall give advance notice to the Chair or Superintendent, of the trustee’s inability to attend a Board meeting. A majority of the Board may excuse a trustee’s absence from a meeting if requested to do so.

Board members, as individuals, have no authority over school affairs, except as provided by law or as authorized by the Board. 

Cross Reference:         
1113  Vacancies

Legal References:
§ 20-3-301, MCA           Election and term of office
§ 20-3-308, MCA           Vacancy of trustee position
§ 20-3-324(21), MCA     Powers and duties
§ 20-3-332, MCA           Personal immunity and liability of trustees

Policy History:
Adopted on: 10/18/04
Revised on:  2/20/2024