RSU 38 board debates formal process for adding items to the agenda

Wendy, representing the policy committee, presented a proposed change to board policy that would require any board member who wishes to add an item to the agenda to offer a motion that must be seconded before proceeding to a vote. The language, drawn from a Massachusetts School Management Association (MSMA) sample, would let the full board decide whether an item is timely and appropriate and would specify whether a majority or two-thirds vote is needed.

Supporters said the change would provide a formal process to avoid surprises and preempt controversy; supporters also noted it would create a consistent pathway for members whose concerns the chair or superintendent might not advance. Opponents said the district has generally used a flexible, collaborative approach that permits adding items at the meeting and that the board’s current informal practice has not caused problems. Several board members said they preferred to keep the present practice and suggested collecting feedback by email before advancing any formal change.

The board also discussed related procedural clarifications in the packet, including a draft of policy BH that would allow the board chair to curtail public comment after 30 minutes and direct remaining speakers to submit written comments or attend the next meeting. That version will be included as a first reading in the next packet so members can review the specific wording.

Next steps: the policy committee will consider board feedback and may reword the proposed agenda-addition language for a future formal proposal. Board members were asked to submit comments via email to Wendy and Jay prior to the next meeting.