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Board approves revised policy on search of students’ wireless devices, adds parental notification language
Summary
The Orange County Board of Education approved modifications to policy 4318 clarifying that parental notification of searches will be provided in accordance with policy 4342.
The Orange County Board of Education approved a revised policy governing searches of students’ wireless communication devices after a brief discussion clarifying parental notification requirements.
Board member Hauser asked that Section C of policy 4318, which authorizes school officials to search a student's wireless device when there is evidence a law, board policy, code of conduct or school rule is being violated, explicitly note that parents will be informed "in accordance with policy 4342." Board counsel and staff recommended language that reads, in substance, that parents will be notified of any such searches in accordance with policy 4342; that policy requires parental notification "as soon as reasonably possible."
The board moved to approve the policy with the modification. A motion to approve with the agreed wording was made and seconded; the chair called the vote and members answered "Aye." The motion carried and the revised policy was approved.
Why it matters: The revision makes explicit in policy 4318 that searches of wireless communication devices will be accompanied by parental notification as required by existing district guidance (policy 4342), addressing board members’ concerns about transparency and parent communication.
Vote record: Motion to approve policy 4318 with modifications — mover: not specified in transcript; second: not specified in transcript; outcome: approved (voice vote: "Aye").
