The Public Schools of Robeson County held a Board of Education Retreat on December 6, 2024, focusing on governance, legal responsibilities, and operational protocols for board members. The meeting began with a review of personnel confidentiality laws, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the privacy of personnel files and the consequences of breaching confidentiality, as illustrated by a notable court case involving the Burke County Board of Education.

The discussion then shifted to the role of board members in handling complaints. Board policy mandates that individual members must refrain from taking direct action on complaints and instead refer them to the appropriate school administrator or the superintendent. This is to ensure that board members do not compromise the integrity of the complaint process or the board's collective authority.

Further, the board reviewed its policies regarding school visits, emphasizing the need for prior notification to the superintendent and principal before visiting schools. This protocol is designed to maintain order and respect within the school environment.

The meeting also covered the legal framework surrounding board member liability, highlighting the concept of qualified immunity for actions taken in their official capacity. Board members were reminded that they must act collectively and not as individuals when making decisions or giving directives.

Additionally, the board discussed public records laws, clarifying that all communications related to board business, regardless of the medium, are considered public records. This includes emails and text messages, which must be treated with transparency.

The retreat concluded with a review of meeting protocols, including the process for adding items to the agenda and the importance of adhering to established parliamentary procedures. Board members were encouraged to foster professionalism and decorum in meetings, ensuring that all discussions remain focused and productive.

Overall, the retreat served as a comprehensive training session for board members, reinforcing their responsibilities and the legal frameworks that govern their actions within the school system. The board plans to continue refining its policies and practices to enhance governance and accountability in the Public Schools of Robeson County.