KCSD board approves comprehensive wellness policy and updated student code of conduct

The Kingston City School District Board of Education approved two policy items at the meeting: a comprehensive wellness policy (Policy 5405) and an updated student code of conduct (Policy 5305). The measures were presented to the board after review by the policy committee.

Trustees voted to approve Policy 5405 after a brief amendment discussion about breakfast procedures. One trustee asked the administration to examine whether the policy language should require at least 10 minutes of seated time for school breakfast; district staff said they would review building schedules and bus arrival times and report back. Board members noted that some operational or contractual changes may be needed to guarantee classroom breakfast in all schools.

The board also approved the updated code of conduct (5305). Trustees discussed how the code addresses electronic-device use and the threshold for disciplinary responses tied to “substantial disruption.” District leaders said the policy reserves administrative judgment for high-level disturbances — such as fights or other serious disruptions — and that standard classroom-level issues would not routinely trigger out-of-school suspension.

Both votes followed standard committee procedures: the policies were introduced for first reading and then approved. Trustees said the policy committee will continue detailed reviews and that certain policy changes (for example, breakfast timing or explicit cellphone language) may require further administrative adjustments or contractual negotiation.

Ending: The policy committee will oversee any drafting or language adjustments suggested by trustees and return recommended edits to the full board for potential future votes.