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Board reviews Connecticut school climate policy, seeks legal clarification before adoption
Summary
Board members reviewed policy 5131.91 (school climate), discussed its mandatory status for 2025–26, confirmed an agreement with Panorama Education for the survey, and requested legal clarification on specific wording and constitutional concerns before final adoption.
The New Milford Board of Education conducted an initial review of Connecticut policy 5131.91 on Sept. 17, discussing how the district will implement school‑climate requirements and the legal implications of adopting model language.
Dr. Janet Parlato said the district has a signed agreement with Panorama Education for the school‑climate survey and reiterated a letter sent earlier to families about Schaghticoke Middle School. She told the board that adoption of the model policy is optional this year but will be mandatory for the 2025–26 school year.
Board members asked how the new statute differs from the previous requirement and whether the district can alter the state‑suggested wording. "We are looking for legal clarification for the previous mandate and what changed," Dean Barile said. Attorney Schurin’s guidance was cited by Dr. Parlato as advising that leaving the CABE‑supplied wording "as is" could reduce liability for the board.
Members expressed differing views. Mr. Barile urged further discussion and said he has spoken with state representatives; Mr. Eric Hansell noted the board has previously encountered state‑dictated wording and said some elements may not be changeable. Mrs. Tammy McInerney emphasized the value of reviewing committee minutes for background and suggested more discussion is needed before any final action.
The board did not vote on adoption during the initial review; members requested legal clarification and the policy will return for further consideration.
