Board debates background checks for parents' designees aiding toilet training; adds draft language and refers matter to committee

The Utah State Board of Education debated a proposed amendment to R277-316, the professional standards and training rule for nonlicensed employees and volunteers. Member Boggess moved to require that an LEA policy "shall require background check for a parent or parent's designee present in the classroom," citing Utah Code 53G-7-203; board members later amended that language to limit the requirement to individuals present "for the purpose of aiding in toilet training." The amendment adding the toilet-training limitation passed 10 to 5. The board then voted to defer consideration of the amendment for committee review tied to the toilet-training rule and approved the underlying draft 1 of R277-316; the referral passed 14 to 1, and the continuation/approval of the draft passed 14 to 1.

Member Boggess, who moved the initial amendment, said the change responds to safety concerns about adults entering student restrooms:…