Board workshops Neola volume 34‑2 policy updates; first and second readings scheduled

The Fond du Lac Board of Education held a workshop Tuesday to review proposed revisions in Neola policy volume 34‑2 covering definitions, records custody, personal communication devices, personnel and student‑safety procedures. The discussion was informational; the board did not adopt any policy changes and scheduled a first reading at the next regular meeting and a second reading at the following meeting.

Chief of Schools Mike Steinberg led the review, summarizing a range of changes Neola recommends to keep local policy aligned with state and federal requirements. Key topics discussed included the district records custodian, updated definitions to include foreign exchange students and wearable devices such as smartwatches under “personal communication devices,” and an explicit reminder that board members must protect student records consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Personnel items drew board questions. The draft language clarifies that refusal to submit to a requested examination when fitness for duty is in question — for example a drug test ordered after an observed impairment — may subject an administrator or staff member to disciplinary action. The draft also notes that a resignation accepted in writing may not be rescinded and clarifies that nonrenewal is not treated as termination for grievance purposes. The board discussed the practical impacts; administrators said details for implementation are in the handbook and typical supervisory practice.

Food service and student‑health sections also prompted discussion. District leaders said they will use NextPath to deliver timely reading assessment notifications to parents in their native language and that Chartwells remains the district contractor for school meals. The workshop clarified local practice on unpaid meal charges and when an uncollectible balance may be expensed at fiscal year end. The district’s chief of finance and operations explained unpaid meal balances become “bad debt” when they cease to be collectible, for example when a student graduates or leaves the district.

New sections on safety and supervision cover drones (small unmanned aircraft systems), use of cameras and recording devices in locker rooms, and volunteer transport. The policy draft requires that any drone use comply with FAA rules and that cameras not be used in locker rooms where students are changing. Administrators said they will remind coaches and event supervisors that locker‑room doors should be supervised during contests and that volunteers should avoid transporting students in private vehicles except under clearly defined district procedures.

No policy was adopted at the workshop. The board’s parliamentarian said the next step is a formal first reading at the next regular meeting and a separate second reading before any policy would take effect.