Board members debate adopting attendance/abandonment policy after prior absences
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Summary
Board members discussed whether to adopt a formal attendance or 'no‑abandonment' policy after two previous members missed large numbers of meetings. Some members called for a clear policy and procedures; others cautioned against limiting elected officials' independence.
Several Woodland CCSD 50 board members on July 24 debated whether to adopt an attendance policy or similar procedural rule after members raised concerns about prior prolonged absences by elected board members.
Lede: The board discussed implementing a formal attendance or “no‑abandonment” policy to clarify expectations and provide a mechanism to address extended unresponsiveness. Members cited past circumstances in which two prior board members missed multiple meetings and the difficulty of filling seats when turnout is sparse.
Why it matters: Board members are elected officials; the district’s ability to maintain quorum and to include diverse perspectives can be affected when members are repeatedly absent or unresponsive. Some members argued the district needs a written policy to provide options for intervention and to enable the regional office to act if needed.
Positions expressed: Joel told the board that two members had missed 10 of 12 meetings and called that a “dereliction of duty,” arguing for a policy that could form the basis for asking the regional superintendent to intervene. Other members — including those who travel for work — said they participate remotely when possible and cautioned about policies that could be used to second‑guess legitimate absences. One member urged the board to focus first on improving board functioning and teamwork before adding a policy that could be used against members.
Next steps: The board directed staff to research existing attendance/participation policies used by other districts and consult the regional superintendent’s office for guidance. The matter was referred to the policy committee for drafting language and to return with recommendations; the committee membership was noted as Carla, Carrie, Julia and the policy chair (perboard list).
Ending: Administration and board members agreed to gather sample policies for the policy committee to review and to consult the regional superintendent’s office about legal and procedural options.