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Board questions 'immorality' language in new certification-revocation policy at first reading
Summary
Assistant superintendent presented a first reading of Policy 5006 (certification revocation); a board member raised concern that wording such as 'immorality and or temperance' may be archaic and could target underrepresented groups, and asked for legal review and clearer procedural language.
At a first reading, Assistant Superintendent Patty Dow presented Policy 5006 — a district policy to codify the certification-revocation process the district already follows and to ensure transparency with OSPI reporting.
During discussion one board member said they were concerned by language in the draft, specifically "the phrase immorality and or temperance," calling it archaic and potentially harmful. "I got a concern with bullet point A, the phrase immorality and or temperance. And specifically, I think that is reminiscent of attempts to attack people, under represented people," the board member said, and asked whether that language should be reworded or reviewed by legal counsel.
Assistant Superintendent Dow acknowledged the concern, said she would take notes of the requested edits and return the policy for further review and possible attorney consultation. Board members also asked for clearer procedures around notification when the district is considering action that would affect a staff member’s certification.
The item was presented as a first reading; board members requested edits and possible legal review before a future vote.
