Apr 25th, 2025“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.
Apr 25th, 2025Thorough 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.
Mar 26th, 20252025 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.
Mar 24th, 2025The 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.
Mar 24th, 2025Responding 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.
Feb 25th, 2025Understanding 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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