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Board advances multiple policy updates to second read, debates social-media language and BYOT wording
Summary
On first read the board reviewed a stack of state-recommended policy updates including removal of virtual public comment from the public participation policy, social-media language (2127) recommended by CSBA that some board members opposed, and BYOT/technology, grading and military-family enrollment clarifications; the board signaled consensus on several items and will take votes at second read.
The Asheville City Schools board considered a large set of policy updates on first read at its Dec. 1 meeting, with staff noting the updates came from state board fall guidance and the school board association.
Public participation: Maggie outlined a recommendation to remove the ‘virtual public comment’ provision (originally adopted for COVID) from the district’s public participation policy as part of a targeted universalism approach that focuses on expanding outreach to underrepresented groups. Multiple board members supported moving that change to second read while urging additional work on outreach strategies so people who do not email or attend meetings in person can still be heard.
Social media and policy 2127: The state association suggested language discouraging board members from using district names, logos or trademarks on personal social media pages. Several board members and the district attorney (Campbell Shatley counsel) said they did not recommend adopting the suggested phrasing; the board indicated consensus against the addition, noting concerns it could be overly broad and chill helpful community communications.
Technology and BYOT: Proposed edits to BYOT (bring your own technology) language removed a requirement for an individual written agreement for each personal device, with staff noting the district’s existing student technology and internet safety agreement and network controls would remain in force. Members asked clarifying questions about how personal devices and campus Wi-Fi controls intersect with discipline and digital safety.
Other items: The board reviewed grading-scale updates (alignment toward a 10-point high school scale and adjustments in elementary reporting), military-family enrollment flexibilities, and a list of contracts that staff recommended appear on next week’s consent agenda (including an all-inclusive trip contract for Asheville Middle School’s Washington, D.C., trip). The board indicated consensus to move many of the first-read items to second read for formal action.
