Mineola board adopts 2024–25 Code of Conduct after brief public hearing

The Mineola Union Free School District Board of Education unanimously adopted the districtwide 2024–25 Code of Conduct during its regular meeting, the board announced after a brief public hearing and presentation.

An unnamed presenter who led the public hearing said the code was developed last school year with Erie BOCES policy services and stakeholder committees that included district administration, school staff, parents and students. The presenter highlighted two notable additions to the document: restorative-practices language and a responsible-use-of-technology policy for personal devices. “Restorative practices are best used along with, not instead of disciplinary consequence in order to create a sense of community, foster empathy, and feel a sense of belonging,” the presenter said.

The presenter outlined next steps tied to adoption: the board will record the adoption and adoption date in the minutes, add the adoption date to the code’s cover page, and file the code with the New York State Commissioner of Education within 30 days of adoption, as required by state regulations.

Board members asked clarifying questions about how the district-level code will translate into building handbooks. Trustees confirmed each school will produce age-appropriate handbooks and that the district code will serve as the template. A board member praised the rights-and-responsibilities section as clear guidance for families and staff.

The board read Resolution 7, which approves and adopts the 2024–25 Code of Conduct and directs filing with the Commissioner of Education. Trustee Bridal Whitman moved the resolution and Trustee Stacy DeSilas seconded. The board took a voice vote; the clerk recorded the motion as passed.

The board did not debate or amend the code during the meeting. The adoption concludes the public-hearing step required under state rules; the district will review the code annually and present any future revisions to the board.