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Board adopts 2025–26 student handbooks; first reading of multiple policies urged additional review
Summary
Board approved student handbooks for the 2025–26 school year and heard a first reading of several press policies, with administrators noting updates to academic wording, counseling procedures and the district's progressive-discipline practices described in handbooks.
At its May 28 meeting, the Ball Chatham CUSD 5 board voted to approve student handbooks for the 2025–26 school year for district schools and heard a first reading of a set of policy revisions.
Administrators in attendance told the board that most buildings had no substantive handbook changes. High school language was clarified regarding academic-designation wording. Counselors condensed a verbose "threat assessment procedure" and Glenwood Elementary School staff contributed to the condensed language. Assistant principals were present to answer questions.
The board also received a first reading of multiple press policies, including items tied to progressive-discipline and harassment policies (referred to during discussion as policy 7-72-1 and related harassment provisions). The administration explained that progressive-discipline standards are referenced in handbooks and that more serious offenses, such as certain drug offenses or gang-related behavior, may trigger higher-level penalties. Before expulsion or extended multi‑day suspension, the district said it uses a review panel of administrators — including an administrator from another building — to provide additional perspective.
Board members thanked members of the policy committee for their work and noted the materials are posted on the district website for review. The policies were presented as a first reading with action to be considered at a subsequent meeting; the handbooks were approved at this meeting.
