PREFACE.

In compiling the following decisions of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, it has been possible to select only a few; therefore such cases as have a decisive bearing upon important points of school law were chosen.

There are many questions arising in the administration of these laws which the courts alone have power to decide. Questions involving the right and title to office, the interpretation and legality of contracts, all matters pertaining to the right to levy and collect taxes, the payment of money and all acts of the electors must be tried in court and may not be determined by appeal to the County Superintendent or to the Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Many appeal cases are the outgrowth of differences arising over location of school houses. This may be eliminated very largely if school boards, in chosing locations, will carefully guard the rights of all involved.

Rarely is it for the best interest of the schools that appeal cases should arise. The feeling engendered over such cases often destroys the good the schools might be doing. No case should be appealed except in times of grave injustice. Judicious advice given by the County Superintendent will, if heeded, do much to lead to an amicable settlement of many difficulties.

A careful study of the laws and decisions thereon by the school officers will enable them to administer the laws more justly and intelligently. It will also make them more efficient in their offices and in many instances prevent unfortunate contests that frequently arise in school districts which disturb the whole neighborhood and decrease the efficiency of the school-yet accomplish nothing in the end.

December 1, 1911.

A. M. DEYOE,

Superintendent of Public Instruction.