District previews updates to code of conduct; public raises concerns on discipline and equity

District staff presented proposed revisions to the Newburgh Enlarged City School District code of conduct at a public hearing Sept. 9, explaining the annual review is intended to comply with the Commissioner’s Regulation Part 100.2 and to reflect recent state guidance on student device use.

A staff presenter identified as a director of pupil personnel services described changes that would expand the definition of "Internet enabled devices" to include smartphones, tablets, smartwatches and similar items, and said the district's policy text was revised to clarify that non‑Internet enabled earbuds are not considered Internet enabled devices. The presenter cited "Governor Hochul's policy 5137 as it relates to the cell phone ban" and said the Safe Committee, parents, students and legal counsel participated in the review. The proposed code adds an infraction for a "threat of school violence other than a bomb threat or a false alarm," defined in the draft as a serious statement, message or gesture that causes others to feel unsafe.

Nut graf: While staff framed the changes as updating the code for legal compliance and to reflect evolving safety issues, public commenters said the revised language leaves too much discretion in how disciplinary levels and interventions will be applied and urged clearer guidance to prevent disproportionate discipline of students with disabilities and Black students.

During public comment, Tracy Wallace (resident/advocate) and another resident, David Ryan, urged the board to ensure the district's written standards match students' lived experiences. Wallace provided national and local‑level statistics and warned that the way infractions are categorized and the range of interventions attached to each level could lead to disproportionate suspensions and expulsions. David Ryan asked whether the board would "live up to the values written in this document when it matters most," urging discipline be carried out with dignity and equity rather than humiliation.

Staff said the draft will be translated into English and Spanish and, if approved by the board, distributed to all buildings by Sept. 30; building principals will review the code with students and staff in September and October and the district will provide an abridged pocket version. No board vote was taken at the hearing; the public hearing was closed and the item will return to the board for approval.

Ending: The board closed the public hearing and will consider formal adoption of the revised code of conduct at a later meeting; staff indicated they will provide the translated and abridged materials to schools if the board approves the proposed text.