Board Member Calls for Policy Review on Nonprofit Flyers in Schools

During the recent Governor Wentworth Regional School District (GWRSD) School Board meeting held on April 7, 2025, a significant discussion emerged regarding the district's policy on distributing promotional materials from nonprofit organizations. Board member Brody raised concerns about the limitations imposed by the current policy, which restricts the distribution of flyers and promotional materials from community organizations that serve youth sports and extracurricular activities.

Brody emphasized the need for a more flexible approach, arguing that the existing policy hinders nonprofits from effectively reaching out to students and their families. He pointed out that many organizations, particularly those based in outlying towns, struggle to connect with students who may benefit from their programs. This lack of outreach can lead to missed opportunities for students to engage in activities such as football and cheerleading, especially for those who may not have prior experience.

The discussion highlighted the importance of collaboration between the school district and community organizations. Brody suggested that the board consider revising the policy to allow nonprofits in good standing to distribute flyers, particularly during open houses and other school events. He noted that many organizations offer scholarships and free participation options, which could help ensure equitable access for all students.

Heather Cummings, another board member, provided historical context for the policy, explaining that it was originally established to prevent children from becoming couriers for community organizations and to ensure equitable access to activities that may involve fees. However, she acknowledged the challenges faced by nonprofits in communicating their offerings to families.

The board members expressed a desire to revisit the policy, with some advocating for a revision that would allow for greater flexibility while maintaining safeguards to ensure that all activities promoted are free for students. The conversation underscored the need for a balance between protecting students from being overwhelmed with promotional materials and ensuring that they have access to valuable extracurricular opportunities.

As the meeting progressed, the board agreed to task Cummings with drafting a revised version of the policy that incorporates the feedback from the discussion. This revision aims to create a more workable framework for collaboration between the school district and community organizations, ultimately benefiting students and enhancing their extracurricular engagement.

The outcome of this meeting signals a potential shift in how GWRSD interacts with local nonprofits, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of community partnerships in supporting student development. The board's commitment to revisiting the policy suggests that they are open to finding solutions that foster collaboration while addressing concerns about equity and access.