Board approves virtual‑academy placement for student with off‑campus restriction

The Des Moines Independent Comm School District board approved the superintendent’s recommendation to allow a student discussed in closed session to enroll in the DMPS Virtual Academy while barred from district property and activities.

The decision came after Chair opened the meeting’s resumed open session and asked for a motion. Dr. Mayberry Mays moved “to approve the superintendent's recommendation to allow the enrollment of the student ... in the DMPS virtual academy,” adding that “the student shall not be permitted to be present on any DMPS property or attend any school activities during this placement,” and that “further terms and conditions may be determined by the superintendent.” Martorano seconded the motion.

Board members then cast their votes amid a brief tallying issue. The chair later announced the motion was approved with a tally of five yes votes and two abstentions. The board did not record individual yes/no votes in the public transcript; the chair advised staff to correct the recorded votes during the roll call.

The action directs the superintendent to place the student in the district virtual academy and to implement any additional conditions needed for the placement. No further procedural motions or appeals were recorded. The board adjourned the session and moved on to a scheduled budget conversation and governance work session.