During a recent Catawba County Board of Education meeting, significant discussions centered around insurance requirements for the Cooperative Extension and the implications of new Title IX regulations.

The board addressed a proposed agreement concerning the Cooperative Extension, noting that it is self-insured. Legal counsel advised modifications to paragraph 11 of the agreement, specifically recommending the removal of the second and third sentences, which pertained to insurance certificates. The board unanimously approved this adjustment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining insurance coverage despite the self-insured status.

In a separate agenda item, the board discussed the complexities surrounding the new Title IX regulations set to take effect in 2024. Ms. Davis highlighted the challenges faced by Catawba County Schools, particularly in light of a recent court ruling that has temporarily halted the enforcement of these regulations in certain schools. Eleven schools in the district are affected by this ruling, which could jeopardize approximately $20 million in federal funding if compliance is not maintained.

Davis sought direction from the board on how to prepare policies that would comply with both the 2020 and 2024 Title IX regulations, given the current legal uncertainties. Board members expressed frustration over the situation but acknowledged the necessity of preparing for compliance to safeguard federal funds. The discussion underscored the board's commitment to navigating the evolving legal landscape while ensuring that all schools are adequately covered under the law.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for a proactive approach to policy preparation, with the hope that forthcoming court decisions may clarify the district's obligations under Title IX.