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Students urge board to adopt open community‑use policy; first reading of KFA moves forward
Summary
Students and public‑health partners presented an open community‑use policy (KFA) to allow families access to outdoor recreational spaces when campuses are closed; board accepted the policy for first reading and will return for a second reading and action.
Students from multiple schools presented a model open community‑use policy and urged the board to adopt KFA after a second reading. Student presenters summarized survey findings and local health data: they reported that only 29% of students are in good heart health, cited adult overweight/obesity and inactivity rates (presenters cited 41% overweight/obese and 34% physically inactive), and noted demand for safe places to play such as disc golf, tennis courts and tracks.
Presenters said the model policy (adapted from the South Carolina School Board Association template) permits outdoor use of certain school recreation areas during daylight hours, includes liability protections and a posted release and signage strategy, and reserves school use as the priority. The students described collaboration with school principals and athletic directors to identify areas excluded from open use (examples they named include kindergarten playgrounds, baseball/softball diamonds, main football practice field and certain basketball courts).
Board members asked for clarification about after‑dark access and enforcement; presenters said facilities typically remain unlocked but signage and patrols can enforce closing times if needed. The item was presented as a first reading; administration said KFA will return as an action item at the next meeting for a second reading and potential approval.
What happens next: administration will bring KFA back for a second reading and the board will consider action at that meeting. Student organizers indicated they will support implementation and signage with local public‑health partners.
