The school board’s Policy Review Committee presented one bylaw and 17 policies Aug. 12 as part of its five‑year review cycle. Board attorney Cammie Linetti summarized changes and the committee’s rationale.

Remote participation (bylaw 1‑36): Linetti said the Freedom of Information Act requires annual reconfirmation of the remote‑participation bylaw; the board was asked to place the bylaw on the agenda for formal adoption to ensure a remote‑participation option will be in effect in September.

Guest speakers (policy 6‑10): The committee substantially rewrote policy 6‑10 and moved detailed procedures into a new regulation. The policy now emphasizes that guest speakers must align with instructional priorities and that divisions should balance instructional time and resources before approving invitations. Board members debated generalizing language vs. keeping policy specifics; one member asked for the item to go to action.

Digital literacy and Internet safety (policy 6‑41): The committee merged digital literacy with Internet‑safety responsibilities to incorporate media literacy, computer science, artificial intelligence (AI) guidance, and a requirement that resources be available for students or parents who encounter illegal online solicitation. Staff said regulations and teacher guidance were drafted using VDOE model language, and administrators will implement training and supports with security and counseling offices.

Athlete safety (policy 5‑62): The committee consolidated several health‑related policies into 5‑62, adding cardiac emergency response planning, athletic emergency action plans and extreme‑heat safety protocols. Staff said the procedures are already being implemented for fall athletics and recommended moving the policy to the consent agenda for formal adoption.

Math acceleration (policy 6‑39): The policy was updated to reflect recent state law changes requiring automatic enrollment into advanced/accelerated mathematics for qualifying students and to outline notification and additional pathways for enrollment; staff said parents retain the right to opt out where the law allows.

Process and next steps: Several policies included only scrivener updates and legal‑reference refreshes as part of the five‑year cycle. Staff said regulations supporting many policy changes (guest speakers, Internet safety/AI stoplights, cardiac plans) will be provided to the board and had been reviewed by the Policy Review Committee.