The Des Moines Independent Comm School District board voted Nov. 18 to enter closed session under Iowa law to discuss litigation strategy with counsel.

A board member moved 'that the board go into closed session for Iowa code section 21.5 subsection 1, subsection c,' citing the statutory authority that allows a governmental body to meet closed‑door to discuss strategy with counsel regarding matters in litigation or where litigation is imminent; the motion was seconded and passed on roll call. The meeting transcript records the motion and the chair calling the roll; the motion was reported as passing 7–0.

After the first successful vote, a second motion (seconded by Martorano) to proceed with closed sessions was recorded and reported as passing 5–0. The public meeting recessed for a brief break and then convened in closed session; the public portion adjourned at 8:54 p.m.

What this means: the board cited Iowa Code §21.5(1)(c) as the basis for closing the public meeting to discuss privileged strategy with legal counsel. The board’s vote and the statute cited will be recorded in the official minutes and the board clerk will publish the record required by law after the closed sessions conclude.