Board gives first read to internet-safety policy with opt-out procedure under review

District policy staff presented an update to the district Internet-safety policy intended to comply with state guidance (referenced in the meeting as Senate Bill 466) requiring county policies to provide parents the opportunity to review instructional materials associated with a state education program and an opt-out option for grades 3–12.

Staff described proposed language added to the district policy and said added verbiage is largely legislative in origin; redlines and additions were highlighted for board review. Board members discussed how to notify parents and what constitutes “written communication” under the law. One board member asked whether an email is sufficient; staff said they prefer a digital approach for efficiency but will verify whether a mailed or physical copy is legally required. Another board member recommended sending notifications digitally and also sending a paper copy home to ensure access for parents without reliable online access.

Staff recommended posting materials online and providing parent access via a link, social media and the district website, with options for parents to review materials in person if they request. The proposed approach would not require parents to sign a permission form but would provide an opt-out mechanism and instructions for how to request a review. The board approved the policy update on first read and asked staff to return with the exact written communications for review prior to the second reading.

The chair called the first vote on the Internet-safety policy update (first read) and recorded the motion as passed; staff will prepare the parent notification materials in multiple formats for the board’s next meeting.