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Policy committee votes: abuse reporting, media use and student-assignment measures pass unanimously
Summary
The committee unanimously approved policies on suspected abuse reporting (4113), use of movies/media (6177) and a revised student-assignment/professional courtesy policy (5117); the student-assignment policy prompted extended discussion about special-education responsibilities for out-of-district students.
At the Aug. 13 policy committee meeting the members approved several additional policy measures by recorded votes:
- Resolution 08-13-24:56 (Policy 4113, reports of suspected abuse/neglect and employee assault): Passed 5-0-0. District staff said the updates align titles and definitions with state statute and clarify that all employees must report suspected abuse or neglect regardless of legally mandated reporter status; regulations are being drafted to implement procedures.
- Resolution 08-13-24:57 (Policy 6177, use of movies/media): Passed 5-0-0. The new policy clarifies when teachers may use full-length films or non-curriculum videos, requires principal sign-off for materials outside the approved curriculum, establishes rating/permission standards (G elementary, PG middle, PG-13 high), and allows student opt-outs. Staff said a sign-off form will live in the principal handbook and the draft regulations and sample form are included in the packet.
- Resolution 08-13-24:58 (Policy 5117, assignment of students to schools/professional courtesy): Passed 5-0-0. The policy revisions require written agreements for staff who receive professional courtesy (attendance at Stamford schools while residing out of district) and clarify which district is responsible for providing special education services (FAPE) to out-of-district students. District counsel and staff explained that when a child requires special education services, the home district must provide those services and the child may need to return to the home district if services cannot be provided by Stamford; board members raised equity concerns for staff affected by this rule and asked about charging the home district for services, which counsel said was not recommended.
These votes complete the committee's action items for the evening; staff will return with regulations and clarifying language where requested.
