Board reviews KSBA policy packet; debate centers on investigations, parental leave, SRO agreements and public participation rules

The Oldham County Board of Education on Aug. 7 reviewed a packet of proposed policy updates from the Kentucky School Boards Association (KSBA) and discussed changes spanning investigations, public participation at meetings, parental leave, school resource officer (SRO) agreements and other operational items.

Why it matters: Policy changes govern how the district conducts employee investigations, preserves evidence, communicates with students and the public, staffs schools with SROs, and provides family leave. Several items carry legal or timing implications — notably the SRO contract language the district wants in place before the school year begins — and the board discussed whether to adopt model KSBA language, keep current local language, or amend KSBA drafts.

Investigations and records Board members pressed for a uniform, documented process for employee investigations, including charging letters, evidence retention and written findings. Board member Dennis argued for specific, documented steps and said he worried past investigations had been incomplete; he asked for a policy that would standardize collection and storage of evidence.

Outside counsel and model‑policy counsel…