Gadsden school board reviews updated student code of conduct, delays final vote

The Gadsden County School Board on Wednesday reviewed a draft update to the district's student code of conduct, discussing restored teen court language, restorative practices for displays of affection, handling of wireless devices under new state law, and whether discipline for elementary students should be reduced from the secondary-level penalties.

Board members said the proposed policy matters because it sets discipline expectations for students, clarifies staff responsibilities and reporting requirements, and must align with newly enacted state requirements that took effect July 1. Several members urged clearer written guidance before the board takes a final vote.

Superintendent (as identified in the workshop) led the discussion and walked members through the document. On teen court language, staff explained the draft lists "civil citation/teen court" where teen court would be reestablished in Gadsden County and noted civil citations must be authorized by a law enforcement officer and typically involve approval from the state attorney. The superintendent said the county already uses civil citations while the district is working with the Department of Juvenile Justice and the state attorney to…