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Board reaffirms instructional-time model and agrees to clarify policy language
Summary
The board voted to reaffirm its instructional time model under ARS 15-901.08 for 2026-27 and subsequent years; members discussed whether statutory phrasing 'may satisfy' should be changed to 'shall satisfy' and were advised policy changes would require additional hearings.
Mr. Shepherd reviewed the background of House Bill 2862 and ARS 15-901.08, explaining the instructional time model (ITM) allows flexibility for students temporarily unable to attend in person to continue instruction remotely. He said the district originally adopted the ITM at public hearings in August 2021 and administration recommended reaffirmation for 2026-27 and subsequent years to clarify its continued use.
Board members discussed a possible wording change in policy IC from "may satisfy" to "shall satisfy". Members noted that changing statutory or policy language would require additional hearings and could remove flexibility for families or create mandates that may not be appropriate for temporary circumstances (such as parental readiness while a child is hospitalized). Administration advised a policy-change process if the board wanted to pursue a language change.
Mr. Stoner moved to adopt the administrative recommendation to update and clarify the ITM wording as presented; the motion was seconded and the board approved the item by voice vote. The board did not change state statute; the motion was to clarify district policy language consistent with ARS 15-901.08 and to reaffirm the ITM for the upcoming school year and subsequent years as policy dictates.
