Parents and survivors press Benton County board for transparency, Title IX accountability after depositions
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Summary
Public commenters told the board sworn depositions show systemic failures in student safety and called for transparency in Title IX investigations; speakers demanded the district hold officials accountable and ensure consistent protections for students.
Two public commenters used the visitor period to urge the board to act on sworn deposition testimony and to strengthen transparency and accountability around Title IX investigations.
Nikki Holland told the board members they had been given access to the district’s sworn deposition testimony and said the depositions "expose a pattern of neglect, misplaced priorities and a culture of silence that reaches far beyond individual incidences." She said families deserve transparency about how investigations are handled, how money is spent, and how those in positions of power are held accountable, adding "Title IX is not a suggestion. It's the law."
A second commenter, who identified herself as Harla (Harley) Little, delivered emotional testimony about carrying a survivor’s story and asked the board to take survivors’ voices seriously. Little said some victims are "broken or scared to speak up" and emphasized that people who have been harmed deserve to be heard and have their rights upheld.
Board response: The chair thanked the speakers, reminded the public of meeting rules and upcoming dates (next meeting: Dec. 1 at 6 p.m.) and closed the public-comment section. The transcript records no formal board action in response to the comments at this meeting.