In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated. Terms Defined. “Appellant” means the individual or entity appealing a final decision of a local board. “Contested case” means a proceeding as defined in State Government Article, §10-202(d), Annotated Code of Maryland. “Days” means calendar days unless otherwise indicated. “Department” means the State Department of Education. “File” means: In regard to an initial appeal, petition for declaratory ruling, or request for removal of a local board member: Delivery of the papers to the State Board in hard copy on or before the date the papers are due; Depositing the papers in the United States mail as registered or certified mail or Express Mail, or deposited with a delivery service, such as Fed Ex, UPS, or DHL, that provides verifiable tracking of the item from the point of origin on or before the date the papers are due; or Submitting the papers electronically to the State Board on or before the date the papers are due. In regard to all other motions, memoranda, and responses: Delivery of the papers to the State Board in hard copy on or before the date papers are due; Depositing the papers in the United States mail or with a delivery service on or before the date the papers are due; or Submitting the papers electronically to the State Board on or before the date the papers are due. “Local board” means the board of education of a county including the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners. “Local superintendent” means the superintendent of a local school system and includes the chief executive officers for the Baltimore City Public School System and for the Prince George's County Public School System. “Party” means either an appellant, respondent, or any person or entity allowed to intervene or participate as a party. “Respondent” means the local board or other individual or entity which issued the decision that is on appeal. “State Board” means the State Board of Education.