Board approves policy updates required by state law; adds abuse-reporting and EpiPen language

The Bethany Public Schools Board approved revisions to multiple district policies to reflect changes in state law and guidance from the Oklahoma State School Boards Association (OSSBA). Board members approved updates to policies covering military student transfers and acceptance of IEPs, expanded language on termination related to failure to report abuse, notification requirements when allegations of inappropriate behavior are involved, and optional procedures and training for administering EpiPens. Administrators said some of the revisions take effect after Nov. 1 under new law and that changes have been communicated to staff. District staff said the DO dash R policy was updated to allow termination where an employee fails to report abuse, and DEC–R7 was amended to change maternity-leave language so staff may use sick leave to extend leave beyond six weeks. Policy FFG was revised to require teacher acknowledgement of child-abuse reporting responsibilities. The FFACA update adds optional EpiPen administration language and staff training requirements; the district said it will continue the practice of calling 911 and contacting parents if an EpiPen is used on a student. Board members voted to adopt the policy package during a motion and roll-call vote. The changes reflect OSSBA recommendations and state statutory changes cited by district staff.