Issues may arise that require a board of education to call a special board meeting. A special meeting refers to any meeting that is not a regular meeting. If the meeting was not set at the board’s organizational meeting in January, it is considered a special meeting. The board president, treasurer or any two board members may call the meeting (RC 3313.16).
The notice requirements for a special board meeting are very specific. Under RC 121.22 (F), the notice must provide the time, place and purpose of the meeting. In addition, the board must provide notice to any person who has requested it. At least twenty-four hours notice must be provided to the news media that have requested notification and to the public in a way in which they will be reasonably notified of the meeting.
If a school board fails to notify the news media of a special meeting, as required by RC 121.22 (F), then any action taken during the special meeting may be invalid. Board members must receive at least two days written notice prior to the meeting date, and the individuals calling the meeting must sign the notice (RC 3313.16). Additionally, service by mail, to board members, is considered good service.
During a special meeting, the board may consider only those matters that were announced in the meeting’s notice. For example, if the board’s notice says that it will take no action at the special meeting, then the board may take no action. If you are not sure whether the board may wish to take action, it is best to preserve flexibility by not including this sentence. Alternatively, if you are sure and want to advise the public that no action will be taken (this is sometimes helpful to reporters), then it may be included in the notice.
If you have any questions, please contact OSBA’s Legal Services Division.