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Board questions draft policy language allowing interviews of student witnesses; staff to clarify
Summary
During first readings of several policies, a board member raised concerns about draft Policy 3226 language that appears to permit interviewing student witnesses or victims without parental consent; staff agreed to check statutory constraints and return with background.
At the policy first‑reading segment the board discussed several revised policies. A board member asked for clarification of draft Policy 3226 (interviews and interrogations in schools), pointing to language that states students who are witnesses or victims “may be interviewed without parent or guardian consent.”
The member said that language gave them pause and that they expected parental notification or consent absent a statutory exemption (for example, when parental involvement would place the child at risk). Board members and staff discussed the difference between interviewing a student who is a witness or victim and interviewing a student suspected of criminal activity and noted the draft policy addresses different categories in separate sections.
Staff did not provide a legal ruling at the meeting but said they would research the statutory basis and return with a fuller explanation. One staff member told the board they would “find out more” and ensure the policy did not broadly permit interviews without parental notification except where law permits.
Ending: The item remained at first reading and staff will report back with legal clarifications and any recommended language changes.
