Committee considers regular community forums; members suggest scheduling during school year rather than summer

The committee discussed a proposed addition to bylaw/policy 9190 to require board community forums (public hearings) on a quarterly basis and debated whether quarterly scheduling should include a summer meeting.

Several members recommended holding three forums during the school year — fall, winter (after holidays) and spring — rather than a four‑quarter schedule that includes a summer meeting. Members argued fall and spring provide better opportunities for meaningful attendance and feedback because families are not on summer break and the school year offers reference points such as open houses and report cards.

Committee members suggested forming a small planning group of staff, parents and community leaders to propose dates that align with school‑year events and maximize public participation. The committee asked staff to prepare scheduling options and a proposed calendar for review.

Why this matters: community forums let parents, staff and residents provide input on district priorities; timing affects attendance and the usefulness of feedback.

Next steps: staff will prepare calendar options and consult stakeholders; the committee will review a proposed schedule before recommending a frequency and schedule to the full board.