Assemblyman Calls for Special Advisor to Oversee BPS Board of Education

July 21, 2026 - 04:38

An assemblyman has formally requested that a special advisor be appointed to oversee the Buffalo Public Schools Board of Education, citing ongoing concerns about governance and accountability. The request comes amid growing frustration over the board's handling of key educational and administrative issues.

The assemblyman argued that the current board has struggled to maintain effective oversight and has failed to address persistent problems within the district, including budget mismanagement, declining student performance, and internal conflicts among board members. He emphasized that a special advisor could provide independent guidance and help restore public trust in the board's decision-making process.

Under the proposal, the advisor would have the authority to review board operations, recommend changes to policies, and ensure compliance with state education regulations. The assemblyman stressed that this is not a takeover but a temporary measure to stabilize the board and improve its functioning.

Critics of the request worry that it could undermine local control over the school district. However, supporters argue that outside intervention is necessary to break a cycle of dysfunction that has plagued the board for years. The state education department has not yet responded to the request, but the assemblyman is pushing for a swift decision before the next school year begins.