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Board pulls several policies for later review; first readings include AI, restraint rules and 504 updates
Summary
Board removed multiple policies from the consent agenda for later discussion, conducted first readings of numerous policy updates (including use of breathalyzers, records-request charges, restraint/seclusion rules and 504 procedures), and heard public comment urging a narrower AI policy for classroom use.
The St. Helens School District 502 board removed five policies from tonight's consent agenda for additional consideration and scheduled further review at upcoming meetings.
Board members moved to remove policy items identified on the agenda as 9.3.1 (artificial intelligence), 9.3.4 (evaluation of administrators), 9.3.12 (student health services), 9.3.18 (harassment), and 9.3.21 (criminal records check and fingerprinting). The motion to remove those items was made, seconded and approved by voice vote so the policies can be discussed in future readings rather than passing on the consent agenda.
Board and administrative staff also presented a set of policy updates in a first reading. Notable items included: - A revision to the public records administrative rule (KBA-AR) that adopts a statewide cost chart for records requests: clerical time $40/hour, administrative time $90/hour, attorney time $300/hour, and printing $.25/page. Staff said the change standardizes charges for large requests. - Revised harassment policy language clarifying the definition of "without consent" to specify "an act performed without the knowing, voluntary, clear agreement by all parties" and when a party is incapacitated by drugs or alcohol or pressured to participate. - Updates to restraint and seclusion policy (JGAB) and its administrative regulation (JGA-AR) to reflect OAR 581-021-0556-12: changes require preservation of records (including audio/video) in original format and describe notification and disclosure procedures for investigations, including disclosure to DHS when requested. - Deletions and consolidations of several student health and communicable-disease policies into a new Student Health Services policy and referencing Oregon Department of Education/Oregon Health Authority guidance for communicable disease. - A new trespass protocol and form prepared with legal counsel to allow staff to trespass individuals from district property when state law permits and to provide an appeal process.
Public comment on the AI policy drew a request from a school reading assistant for a narrower approach. Logan Gilbert Renner, a Title I reading assistant and vice president of OSEA Chapter 31, urged the board to allow staff to use AI-generated materials for classroom supports and to permit students under 13 to use approved AI tools with parental opt-in and supervision. Renner said an outright ban on AI use in grades under 13 would block tools that can help early readers and that some education-focused AI products comply with COPPA with parental consent.
Board chair and staff said the pulled policies will return for more discussion during the board's remaining meetings this month and at the June 25 meeting for second readings where required.
Why it matters: Policy language will govern classroom technology, student privacy, restraint/seclusion procedures and public records charges across the district; changes affect staff practice, student rights and how the district responds to incidents and records requests.
