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Board approves first readings of policy updates; members debate language on removing recess
Summary
The board approved first readings of several policy updates (AED use, remote learning, student conduct, physical & emotional well-being) and discussed, but did not adopt, a proposed amendment to the daily physical activity policy about removing recess for disciplinary reasons; the issue will return on second reading.
The Portsmouth School Board suspended the rules and moved a set of policy first readings on March 10, approving updates to policies on automated external defibrillators (EBBCA), remote learning (IMBA), student conduct (JIC) and physical and emotional well-being (JLCK).
Board members pulled the daily physical activity policy (IMAH) for separate discussion. The contested language concerned a sentence that "discourages the removal of access to daily physical activity during recess for any reasons such as disciplinary consequences, completing classwork, etc." Board member Steve Adler proposed amending the policy to remove the words "any reasons," arguing that limited exceptions—such as when a student's behavior creates an immediate safety risk—should be possible. Adler said, in essence, that a teacher or principal might need the flexibility to meet with a student after an incident to develop supports.
Other board members urged preserving the stronger discouraging language to protect students' access to movement and restorative practices; some suggested drafting clarified language for second reading to address equity and special-needs access. The proposed amendment did not receive a second; the board approved the policy on first reading and agreed members could present refined language at second reading.
The board treated the four policies as first readings and took no final policy action beyond approval to move them forward for further consideration.
