§ 1722. Application of article. The provisions of this article shall apply to all union free school districts heretofore organized pursuant to the provisions of chapter four hundred thirty-three of the laws of eighteen hundred fifty-three, and the amendments thereof, chapter five hundred fifty-five of the laws of eighteen hundred sixty-four, and the amendments thereof, and of chapter five hundred fifty-six of the laws of eighteen hundred ninety-four and the amendments thereof; and sections seventeen hundred seventeen, four hundred one, subdivision one, four hundred sixteen and seventeen hundred nineteen, subdivision three, of this chapter are made applicable to all school districts established by and organized under special statutes, except those of cities; and sections seventeen hundred eleven and four hundred one, subdivision two, of this chapter are made applicable to all school districts, except those of cities, having a population of five thousand and upwards established by and organized under special statutes.