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Board hears first read of revised student disciplinary handbook, seeks clearer progression and reduced discretion
Summary
Assistant principals presented a revised student disciplinary handbook recommending uniform progressive-discipline steps across grade levels, clearer definitions (e.g., physical attack vs. aggressive confrontation) and inclusion of cyberbullying rules; the draft will be refined and returned for board consideration.
Assistant principals, joined by the district hearing officer, presented a revised student disciplinary handbook and asked the board to accept the item as a first read so staff can finalize outstanding amendments. Presenters said the primary goals were alignment across elementary, middle and high schools, predictable progressive-discipline steps, and fewer instances of discretionary interpretation by principals.
The presenters described an example change: redefining 'physical attack' to include assaults on school personnel or other adults (not only student-to-student attacks) and distinguishing it from 'aggressive confrontation' (mutual pushing or non-injurious incidents), with different disciplinary progressions suggested for each. They also proposed adding guidance for social-media incidents and cyberbullying.
Board members asked how families would acknowledge the handbook; presenters said the disciplinary handbook will be added to the school handbook and acknowledged through the district parent portal (Synergy) or by paper copy where needed. Presenters estimated they would complete edits within about a month and return with a final version for board action.
