“Standardized” Purchases – Legal Requirements and Avoiding PitfallsApr 25th, 2025
by Jeffrey M. Lewis

“Standardized” Purchases – Legal Requirements and Avoiding Pitfalls

One procurement tool available to schools and BOCES is “standardized” purchasing. Vendors often encourage schools to “standardize” on particular products for various reasons. While standardization may be the right tool in certain situations, its use is limited to narrowly tailored situations. In most situations standardized purchasing does not allow schools to avoid competitive bidding requirements.

Thorough DASA Investigations Help Protect the DistrictApr 25th, 2025
by Charles E. Symons

Thorough DASA Investigations Help Protect the District

The Commissioner of Education recently handed down a decision that highlights the importance of thorough investigations and carefully following a district’s own policies in handling DASA investigations.

2025 Election Worker TrainingMar 26th, 2025
by Ferrara Fiorenza PC

2025 Election Worker Training

Join the Ferrara Fiorenza team for our 2024 Election Workers Training Session: Election inspectors are responsible for efficiently and effectively managing the school district annual meeting and general election, including the counting of votes after polls close.

The Comptroller Targets Electronic Security IssuesMar 24th, 2025
by Daria Ivasiuk

The Comptroller Targets Electronic Security Issues

The Comptroller recently audited school districts and BOCES to address electronic access issues related to facilities and information. Security risks arise when former employees or non-employees (such as vendors and contractors) retain access to school premises, databases, or educational platforms after their association with the school district ends.

Responding to DASA ComplaintsMar 24th, 2025
by Jennifer E. Mathews

Responding to DASA Complaints

The Dignity for All Students Act (“DASA”) has been the subject of recent decisions issued by the New York State Commissioner of Education (the “Commissioner”). DASA prohibits bullying and harassment of students in public schools and at school activities; it is non-disciplinary.

Understanding Capital Outlay Projects and Building Condition Surveys Feb 25th, 2025
by Bukre N. Ayan

Understanding Capital Outlay Projects and Building Condition Surveys

To be eligible to receive expedited building aid, a School District must be aware of the deadlines and requirements associated with a Capital Outlay Project. To meet its obligations to review the condition of its facilities, a School District must be aware of the deadlines and requirements associated with its Building Condition Surveys.

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