During the Sept. 10 policy meeting the board considered a new policy and accompanying administrative regulations for non-school sponsored student groups (Policy 122.1). The board confirmed that such student-initiated groups must meet during non-instructional time, and staff pointed to an AR requirement that outside speakers or attendees be disclosed to principals at least seven days in advance.
Why it matters: The rules set boundaries for student-led groups operating on school property, clarify principal oversight, and protect instructional time while permitting constitutionally protected student gatherings.
Staff explained the practical mechanics: "A student seeking submission to form a student group during the [school year] shall submit a written request to the building principal on a designated district form," a staff member said. For groups expecting outside guests, the AR states that the principal must receive notice at least seven days before the meeting, including names of attendees and any outside presenters, so the school can process building access and supervision.
The policy says meetings must be held during non-instructional time at the secondary level and that district personnel shall not promote or lead non-school-sponsored groups; staff clarified that district employees may attend as private citizens but should not act in a staff capacity while doing so. Board members asked staff to confirm the AR contains the 7-day notification requirement and to ensure the forms are available electronically (with paper options preserved).
Action and next steps: The ARs that govern forms, the seven-day notification, and building access were advanced for committee review. Staff will ensure the AR language clearly states the seven-day notice for outside attendees and that principals receive designated forms.
Ending: Staff will return the finalized ARs and the electronic form for board review and indicate where the forms will be posted for students and families.