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Board weighs removing virtual public comment, citing AI risks and access tradeoffs
Summary
Superintendent recommended striking the single word 'virtual' from the public-comment policy because of staff time and AI/deepfake concerns. Board members debated access for those unable to attend in person and agreed to take the item forward for first read at the next session.
Superintendent Dr. Maggie told the board she recommended removing the word "virtual" from the district's public-comment policy to reduce staff time and to manage risks associated with AI-generated or altered video and audio.
"I would recommend that we take that out," Maggie said, adding that written comments emailed to the board could still be read into the record for those unable to attend.
Some board members raised access concerns. "Is eliminating the possibility of virtual speakers creating barriers of access for people who can't appear in person?" one member asked, urging caution about removing an avenue for participation.
Others noted the district does not receive many virtual comments and that virtual participation requires staff setup and extra prep time. One board member said prerecorded video submissions would impose additional workload and could still raise concerns about authenticity.
No consensus emerged; the chair said the revision will be placed on the next work session as a first-read item and staff will return with details (including how written submissions would be handled and an estimate of additional staff time required if virtual comment remains).
