School Board Clarifies Communication Policy for Members and Community Engagement

The Ketchikan Gateway Borough School Board has clarified its communication policy, emphasizing the importance of transparency and collective engagement among board members and the community. During a recent meeting, board members addressed concerns raised by citizens regarding the expectations of the new policy, which encourages parents and community members to communicate with the entire board and the superintendent via a dedicated email address.

The policy aims to ensure that all board members are informed about community feedback, rather than allowing communication to be limited to individual members. This approach is designed to foster a more inclusive dialogue and enhance the board's responsiveness to community concerns. Board members reiterated that they should not reach out to staff or faculty directly to resolve issues but should channel all inquiries through the superintendent's office.

Additionally, the board discussed the implications of reporting harassing or defamatory communications. While members expressed concerns about policing social media, they acknowledged the importance of informing the superintendent about any serious issues that may arise, particularly those affecting students or staff. The language of the policy indicates that while board members are encouraged to report such incidents, they are not mandated to do so, allowing for discretion in handling these sensitive matters.

The meeting underscored the board's commitment to maintaining open lines of communication and ensuring that all members are equipped to address community concerns effectively. As the board moves forward, it aims to strengthen its relationship with the community by promoting a culture of transparency and collaboration.