School Board Approves First Readings for Updated Nondiscrimination and Harassment Policies

The RSU 22 Board made significant strides in updating key policies during their meeting on April 16, 2025, with a focus on compliance and clarity in response to recent legal developments. The board unanimously approved the first readings of three critical policies: AC, ACAB, and ACAA, all of which were reverted to their 2020 versions following a court ruling that mandated these changes.

Policy AC, which addresses nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action, saw updates primarily in its legal references. The board emphasized the importance of aligning with the latest legal standards, ensuring that the policy reflects current requirements.

Similarly, Policy ACAB, previously titled "Harassment of Employees," has been renamed to include "and Sexual Harassment of School Employees." This change, along with updates to align with the Maine Human Rights Act, aims to strengthen protections for staff members.

Policy ACAA, which pertains to harassment of students, underwent a similar transformation, adopting the new title "Harassment and Sexual Harassment of Students" and reflecting necessary updates to comply with state law.

In addition to these first readings, the board also conducted a second reading of Policy IKF, which outlines graduation requirements. Notably, the policy will eliminate quarter credit for advisory starting in the 2026-2027 school year, allowing current juniors and seniors to complete their credits without disruption. Changes regarding honors and awards at graduation were also incorporated to ensure consistency with the student handbook.

These policy updates are crucial for maintaining a safe and equitable educational environment in RSU 22 schools. The board's commitment to revising these policies demonstrates a proactive approach to legal compliance and the well-being of both students and staff. As these policies move forward, the community can expect enhanced clarity and support within the school system.