Board reviews multiple policy drafts including data‑records retention and social‑media guidelines

The Laconia School Board reviewed several policy drafts at its Oct. 7 meeting in first‑read form, including an updated data‑records retention policy (EHB), extended learning opportunity language, device/internet procedures and two new social‑media policies.

Policy committee members said the EHB draft merges district language with the New Hampshire School Boards Association model and includes updated schedule items for special‑education digital records. Board members asked whether the schedule (a separate document) addresses the retention and review timeline for sealed nonpublic minutes; staff said the schedule contains those specifics and that the draft policy aligns with the updated schedule.

On extended learning opportunities (ELO), the board discussed language that assigns the ELO committee responsibility to review opportunities and recommend which type of credits may be awarded, while the principal retains statutory authority to determine how many credits apply toward graduation. A board member recommended clarifying the draft so parents and students understand that the ELO committee recommends credit type and the principal determines credit quantity toward graduation requirements.

The board also reviewed device/internet procedures (JICL) and two School Board Association sample policies for social media (KG and KD R). Members requested the draft social‑media policy use a generic term such as "social media platforms" rather than list specific services so the policy remains current as new platforms emerge. The district's IT director provided procedural input to align the technology practices with the policy language.

All drafts were accepted for first read and will return for a subsequent meeting for final action after staff edits and any clarifying language changes.