The president of each school board, or in his absence the vice-president, shall preside at all meetings of the board, call meetings when necessary, advise with and assist the parish superintendent of schools in promoting the success of the schools, and, generally, do and perform all other acts and duties pertaining to his office.  All deeds and contracts for the schools shall be signed by him, but the contracts with teachers shall be signed by the parish superintendent and the contracting teachers.