Virginia § 22.1-57.2 - Referendum on direct election of school board members by the voters
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 22.1-57.2 — Referendum on direct election of school board members by the voters, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 22.1-57.2. Referendum on direct election of school board members by the voters
The registered voters of any such county, city, or town may, by petition filed with the circuit court thereof, ask that a referendum be held on the question of whether the members of the school board of the county, city, or town shall be elected directly by the voters. The petition shall be signed by registered voters equal in number to at least 10 percent of the number registered in such locality on the January 1 preceding its filing. Upon the filing of a petition, the circuit court shall order and require the election officials at the next general election to open the polls and take the sense of the voters therein on that question. The petition shall be filed with the court not less than 111 days prior to the general election. The clerk of the court shall cause notice of the referendum to be published once a week for the three consecutive weeks prior to the referendum in a newspaper having general circulation in the county, city, or town, and a copy of the notice shall be posted during the same time on the door of the courthouse of the county or city, or of the county within which the town is located. The question on the ballot shall be:
"Shall the method of selecting the school board be changed from appointment by the governing body (or the school board selection commission, whichever is applicable) to direct election by the voters?
[ ] YES
[ ] NO"
The election shall be held and the results certified as provided in § 24.2-684.
1992, c. 594; 2011, c. 599.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 22.1-57.2
What does Code of Virginia § 22.1-57.2 cover?
Section 22.1-57.2 ("Referendum on direct election of school board members by the voters") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 22.1-57.2?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 22.1-57.2" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 22.1-57.2 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.