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School committee opens first reading on security-camera policy as members urge added checks
Summary
On a first reading, the committee considered a model security-camera (ECAF) policy and some members raised reservations about interior cameras and potential law-enforcement access, urging additional checks, reporting and student input before a final vote.
The committee held a first reading of policy ECAF (security cameras in schools), based on Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) guidance, and discussed one additional sentence proposed to clarify that cameras "will not be used for evaluative or evaluation purposes." The policy will return for a second reading and vote at a future meeting.
Several committee members raised concerns about interior surveillance and about broad access to footage, including potential requests from law enforcement. One committee member said the policy as written risks giving too much discretion to administrators and suggested adding checks and balances such as reporting to the committee or an executive-session review before footage is released.
The superintendent noted that cameras are already present in many locations and that the administration seeks a clear policy to govern use. The committee encouraged soliciting student feedback on the question and asked administration to draft any proposed changes in writing ahead of the second reading.
What’s next: The policy will be revised as needed and returned for a second reading and vote; committee members asked for written proposals to add reporting or oversight language prior to the next meeting.
