39 N.Y.2d 111 (1976)

Absent state regulation, a central city board of education has the power to establish uniform city-wide policy regarding hours of instruction, even contrary to the wishes of community school districts, provided minimum educational standards are maintained.

Summary

This case concerns the power struggle between the central New York City Board of Education and community school boards regarding instructional hours. Facing a fiscal crisis and teacher strike, the central board reduced instructional time to cut costs, a decision challenged by community boards. The Court of Appeals held that the central board, responsible for city-wide educational policy and budget, has the authority to set instructional hours, even if it conflicts with community board preferences. This authority stems from its broader mandate to manage educational affairs and negotiate with the teachers’ union. The decision emphasized the city board’s role in maintaining minimum educational standards amidst financial constraints.

Facts

In 1975, New York City faced a severe fiscal crisis. Collective bargaining between the central New York City Board of Education and the United Federation of Teachers collapsed, leading to a teacher strike. An agreement was reached where teachers