Board adopts revisions to discrimination and complaint policies on first reading; updates tobacco and nicotine policy on second reading

The Wake County Board of Education approved updates to multiple board policies during its April meeting, voting to adopt first readings of two policies on discrimination, harassment and complaint procedures and to adopt on second reading a revised policy on tobacco, nicotine and alternative nicotine products.

Attorney Neil Ramey and policy staff presented changes to Board Policy 17‑10 (prohibition against discrimination, harassment and bullying) and Policy 17‑20 (complaint process). The revisions restore language aligned with the 2020 Title IX regulations following a federal court decision that vacated revised 2024 Title IX rules. Counsel advised the board on how harassment complaints now must be categorized and routed under the reinstated rules.

Policy staff noted a clerical phrase that would be struck on second reading to avoid confusion. Board member Evans, who moved adoption, stressed that the district’s expectation that no child be bullied remains unchanged regardless of the regulatory framework. The board approved the first reading for both policies after brief discussion.

Separately, the board approved on second reading a revised Policy 50‑26‑72‑50 concerning use of tobacco, nicotine and alternative nicotine products. Staff clarified the policy language to ensure it does not prohibit use of U.S. Food and Drug Administration‑approved nicotine‑cessation products and inserted terminology consistent with the School Boards Association guidance. The policy passed on second reading following a motion by board member Evans and a second from Dr. Eng.

Attorneys and staff said the technical adjustments were intended to ensure the district’s policies align with current federal guidance and to provide clear processes for complaints of discrimination or harassment. No member requested a roll‑call vote; the chair announced each motion passed.