Board begins first reading of budget policy revisions and appoints ad hoc policy review committee

The Phoenix Elementary School District Governing Board began a first reading of several budget‑related policy revisions recommended by the Arizona School Boards Association and appointed an ad hoc committee to begin more intensive policy review work.

Administration said the redlined ASBA drafts reflect statutory changes and clarified that some policies (DB and DF) are not strictly statutorily required but are being streamlined for clarity. Board member Edmiston raised two substantive concerns with the proposed edits: she said a proposed change to DA appeared to shift language away from emphasizing educational outcomes toward a focus on per‑student expenditure levels, and she objected to a DBF edit that replaces the phrasing “at least 10 days before” with “within 10 days before,” arguing the latter could shorten public notice windows. Edmiston said she would submit written recommended language for the second reading.

Separately, the board discussed a proposed change to policy BEDB that would place regularly scheduled progress monitoring reports earlier in the meeting agenda, thereby pushing public comment later. Board member Edmiston and others objected, saying moving public comment could reduce convenience and participation for community members who attend after work; President Trujillo said publishing student outcome monitoring earlier helps the public access important data.

President Trujillo moved to appoint an ad hoc policy review committee comprised initially of Trujillo and Edmiston to begin the work; the motion was seconded and approved by recorded aye votes. Administration said ad hoc meetings will be publicly noticed and other board members can join as schedules permit. Board members were invited to send edits to Mrs. Shipp for inclusion in the second reading, expected in January.