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School committee adopts handbook changes; recess may not be withheld without principal approval
Summary
The committee approved consolidated Medford Public Schools handbook updates that state recess "is an essential component... and will not be withheld as a disciplinary measure," and clarified that loss of recess requires approval by a principal or assistant principal; the academic honesty panel process was also clarified.
The Medford School Committee approved consolidated updates to the district handbook that include a clarified policy on elementary recess and revisions to the academic‑honesty appeal process.
Superintendent Dr. Galooi summarized the revised handbook language adding that "recess is an essential component of a child's physical, social, and emotional development and will not be withheld as a disciplinary measure." The policy now specifies that consequences must be "logical, timely, and linked directly to the incident or infraction," and that any loss of recess must be approved by a school leader (principal or assistant principal). The handbook also clarifies that homework incompletion will not result in loss of recess and adds procedural clarification for the academic honesty panel, including consistent annual panel membership and substitutions if a member is involved in a case.
Member Reinfeld moved approval of the consolidated handbook updates; the motion was seconded and passed. Committee members praised the clearer language intended to protect recess time while allowing for appropriate consequences tied to student behavior.
Next steps: the district will post the updated handbooks and notify families; staff will implement the clarified academic‑honesty procedures for appeals.
