Fayetteville School Board approves new policies including tobacco regulations and updated salary schedules

The Fayetteville School District Board made significant strides in policy updates during their regular meeting on April 24, 2025, with a focus on enhancing campus safety and refining naming rights procedures.

A key highlight was the unanimous approval of a new cybersecurity policy aimed at bolstering the district's defenses against digital threats. Board member Keaton emphasized the importance of this policy, which was presented last month, and the board swiftly moved to adopt it without any objections.

In addition to cybersecurity, the board approved revisions to the classified and certified salary schedules, ensuring that all employees will see an average increase of 2.5% next year. This adjustment combines movement on the salary scale with a cost-of-living adjustment, reflecting the district's commitment to fair compensation for its staff.

The meeting also addressed legislative changes regarding tobacco use on school campuses. A new policy was introduced to expand the tobacco-free campus initiative to include vapor and alternative nicotine products, ensuring that the policy applies to all individuals on campus, not just students. This update aligns with Act 590 of 2025 and aims to create a healthier environment for everyone.

Furthermore, the board discussed the repeal of the existing naming facilities policy, opting instead for a streamlined naming rights policy. This new policy consolidates previous guidelines and clarifies the process for naming district properties, ensuring that all naming rights agreements are documented and adhere to robust contractual terms.

As the board continues to refine its policies, they anticipate further updates in the coming months to address additional legislative changes. The proactive approach taken during this meeting underscores the district's commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive educational environment for all students and staff.