In the absence of the president the vice-president shall preside at all meetings, call special meetings whenever so requested by any three members of the board of directors, and when directed by the board shall execute any and all deeds, contracts, warrants to tax collectors and other papers pertaining to the business of the board, and perform all other duties imposed on the president. Except in school districts of the first class any school board, joint board or joint committee upon request of the president may authorize its vice-president to sign checks or vouchers for the payment of current expenses and salaries.