Board adopts updated policies on fingerprinting, social networking, FAFSA and alternative education

The Cheshire Board of Education voted unanimously on Jan. 16 to approve four policy updates and directed the superintendent to put them into immediate effect.

Mr. Adequi moved that the board give a third and final reading to several policies — security check/fingerprinting (4112.542/4212.5), rights/responsibilities and social networking (4118.51), FAFSA completion (6148) and alternative education program (6172) — and directed the superintendent to enact them. The motion was seconded by Mr. Bridal and carried by unanimous vote.

Board members said the security/fingerprinting policy focuses on data handling and access procedures for criminal-background information, rather than expanding fingerprinting itself. The social-networking update, limited to staff conduct when appearing to represent the district, was described as deliberately narrow: board members and the superintendent said attorneys tailored language to balance employment duties with staff First Amendment rights.

The FAFSA completion policy implements the state requirement that graduating students be supported in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid; the district's policy text mirrors the state’s phased rollout and reflects delayed implementation timelines. The alternative-education policy clarifies the district’s obligation to provide alternative programs and continued access to education for students who require them.

Mr. Adequi called the vote after discussion at the policy committee and a second reading; the board recorded the action as unanimous.