Polk board weighs policy to treat school‑sponsored student media as a non‑public forum; debate centers on social media, photography and advertising

Polk County27s proposed Policy 5722 would treat school‑sponsored publications and productions as district‑controlled, non‑public forums that are routinely reviewed by staff before publication or performance, presenters told the board Tuesday.

Chad Davis, who led the presentation with Teresa Griffin, said the draft draws on First Amendment precedent (Tinker and Hazelwood) and aims to apply a uniform approach to print, broadcast and electronic student media. "We treat them as district controlled educational activities and not open public platforms," Davis said, noting the policy27s routine prior review and viewpoint‑neutral administration.

Trustees took particular interest in three areas: social media and hosting, photography at public performances, and advertising. Board members said they were uncomfortable with schools posting regular classroom broadcasts to public social platforms without clear parental consent and asked staff to draft narrower language. They also asked whether the district can restrict photography or require announcements and signage at performances to protect students with privacy concerns; staff agreed language to address photography and parental waivers would be drafted.

On advertising, the presenters said the "clean" version shown for decision would allow advertising consistent with Policy 9700.01, subject to school review and superintendent authority over suitability. Board members expressed relief that fundraising vehicles such as yearbook ads would remain possible under controlled review.

Next steps: Staff will refine language addressing photography, social media hosting and advertising, and return with a revised draft and materials for a public hearing and training for principals. The board agreed to avoid rushing an amended version into the July public hearing to allow public notice and more time for feedback.