Sachem Board gives first reading to updated extreme-heat policy, seeks broader public input

The Sachem Board of Education held a first reading of several district policies and discussed a notable update to Policy 81‑13, which addresses operations on extreme‑heat condition days. The first reading covered Policy 62‑40 (investments), Policy 6700 (purchasing), Policy 7800 (closing of facilities) and Policy 81‑13 (extreme heat condition days). No votes were taken; the policies will return for a second reading at the next meeting. Board member Mike framed the revised heat‑day policy as an effort to "take a lot of the emotion away" and rely on professional assessments and demographic data while preserving board discretion to seek outside guidance. Several board members emphasized that the new policy will include public hearings so community members can comment on proposed operational changes. Board member Meredith asked how the old policy and the tracked changes would be made available; Allison said board docs already lists the policies with highlighted changes. Sabrina said a major structural change is moving from a small, selected stakeholder committee to open public forums: "instead of leaving it to a small committee of maybe 10 stakeholders... this allows more opportunity for the community to be able to speak up." Board member Stephanie said she supported Policy 81‑13 and described it as an "option to move people safely." Administrators and board members noted the district already uses air conditioning in many classrooms and had used indoor schedules during recent high temperatures. The board will hold a second reading and possible vote on the policies at the next regular meeting; staff were asked to ensure the old policy text and the redline changes are readily available to the public online before the vote. No formal action on the policies was taken at the Aug. 6 meeting.