Board approves personnel agenda after debate over public naming of employees; superintendent authorized to study staffing

The Keystone Central School District board approved the personnel agenda during the Nov. 13 meeting after extended discussion about whether employee names should appear in public agenda materials.

Several board members objected to the administration’s move to remove employee names from public personnel listings and substitute employee numbers, saying the practice is uncommon among nearby districts and that listing names does not violate HIPAA. "It's ridiculous that we have it," one member said, arguing the public should be able to see names. Administrators and the superintendent responded that legal counsel and HR professionals recommended treating names as executive content in certain circumstances to avoid disclosing medical information or creating security vulnerabilities; they said explicit solicitor guidance was pending.

After discussion, the personnel agenda (I1) was approved by roll call with five members voting in favor and two opposed. The board also passed a motion authorizing Superintendent Dr. Redmond to conduct a staffing study (I2) and explore consultant options; Dr. Redmond said he will return with proposals and noted the study may be a public bid depending on cost.

Board member Elizabeth said she prefers an option that allows a third‑party review alongside superintendent analysis; Dr. Redmond said that option will be provided. The board asked for written solicitor guidance on the personnel public‑records approach and clarity on the circumstances when names are provided only under executive session or executive content.

Next steps: administration to provide the board with solicitor guidance in writing and to return with options and cost estimates for a staffing study.