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Palm Beach school board votes to repeal COVID-era visitation policy amid calls to 'reinvite' parents
Summary
The School Board of Palm Beach County unanimously approved repeal of Policy 2.065, a COVID-era visitation protocol. Board members and parents urged schools to restore everyday family access and clarify safe, practical ways for parents to be present on campuses.
The School Board of Palm Beach County on May 7 voted unanimously to repeal Policy 2.065, the district’s COVID-era visitation protocol, while board members discussed steps to make parents feel more welcome on campus.
Board members said the policy is obsolete now that pandemic restrictions have eased and that schools should pursue ways to reengage families without compromising safety and instructional time.
Board member Edwin Ferguson pressed the board to “reinvite” parents into schools, saying parents should not feel like “intruders” and urging principals to find ways for parents to be on campus more regularly. Superintendent Michael J. Burke said the district is balancing safety and access, noting schools already hold tours, family events and communicate with families by phone and email. Burke said he would take board feedback and return with recommendations if there are opportunities to improve perceptions of access.
Other board members supported reopening access while emphasizing it must not disrupt the school day. Board member Erica Whitfield said allowing parents to join elementary lunches or other controlled events can build community. Board member Karen Brill and vice chair Marsha Andrews encouraged principals to continue outreach in neighborhoods and to keep school events accessible.
The motion to repeal Policy 2.065 was made by Whitfield and seconded by Karen Branch; the board voted unanimously to carry the repeal. Several members asked administration to return with practical guidance for principals on how to increase parent access safely and consistently.
The discussion accompanying the vote included caution from general counsel that changes must still align with other district safety policies. No new binding guidance for principals was adopted at the meeting; the board asked staff to explore options and report back.
Board members said they want welcoming schools while preserving controlled entry points and classroom instructional time; members asked staff to include recommendations in upcoming materials to the board.
