Board adopts revised policy KEC to clarify instructional‑materials review after public comment on reconsideration

The Colorado Springs School District No. 11 board adopted a revised policy KEC on March 4 to clarify the timing and process for requests to review instructional materials. The revision clarifies that requests for review by district professional staff must be submitted within 30 days after the school‑level determination.

Earlier in the meeting, public commenter Vincent (Dents) Puzic urged the board to restore reconsideration language to policies IJ and IJL and to adopt regulations that delineate the procedure for reconsidering instructional resources. Puzic cited a Colorado statute (recorded in his remarks as “22‑30‑2‑109”) and argued that without a public process, removals could be arbitrary.

Superintendent staff noted the KEC revision incorporates language suggested at the board’s prior meeting and provides clearer steps for community members who wish to pursue a formal review. Director Malpakam thanked staff for making the change and said it adds clarity for community members. The board voted to adopt KEC; directors supporting the motion said the change provides a public path for review while other related policies (IJ/IJL) will be considered as necessary.

The board did not take immediate action on IJ and IJL during this meeting; staff said the district had been directed earlier to draft regulations for reconsideration of library and instructional materials.

The board adopted the redline revision by roll call.