Board begins first reading of revised co-curricular code, removes "guilt by association" language

The Elkhorn School Board conducted a first reading on June 30 of a revised co-curricular code of conduct that removes "guilt by association" language and updates expectations for social media, investigations and notification of parents or guardians.

Staff said the revised language strikes a provision that had made attendance at gatherings where alcohol or other controlled substances were present a co-curricular violation by association. The change reflects prior board guidance that treating mere attendance as a violation was difficult to enforce and potentially intrusive; consumption or possession of alcohol or illegal substances remains a co-curricular violation if a student is cited or found to have used such substances.

The revision also adds written social-media expectations and guidance for cyber conduct toward teammates and opponents; staff said those rules have existed in practice in conference rules and the handbook updates merely document current practice. The board discussed the process for investigations conducted by the athletics and activities director and the role of the building principal. Members proposed adding a principal or designee (such as an assistant principal) to investigative panels to reduce claims of "he said/she said" disputes.

Board members also pressed staff to require written notification to parents or guardians of investigative findings. Staff and board members discussed options including initial phone contact followed by written confirmation by letter or email, and clarifying that notifications must be directed to the parent/guardian listed in the district's Entrust system rather than to the student.

Other changes reviewed included language on equipment care and parent/fan behavior expectations. The item was presented as a first reading; board members asked staff to return with proposed text clarifying who will be involved in investigations and how parents will be notified.