Teaneck Board adopts revised policy on student demonstrations

The Teaneck Board of Education unanimously adopted a revised policy on student demonstrations at its Dec. 10 meeting.

The board approved the second reading of Policy 5520, which affirms students’ right to peacefully assemble while requiring reasonable notice to a building principal for organized demonstrations held on school property or during school hours. The policy lets principals, in consultation with the superintendent, impose content‑neutral time, place and manner restrictions intended to preserve safety and avoid disruption to the educational program, and it directs the superintendent and principal to coordinate security and, if necessary, involve law enforcement.

The policy text cites New Jersey statutes as guidance and clarifies that demonstrations must not obstruct free movement or interfere with instruction; it also states that displays of obscene speech, slanderous statements or hate speech (as defined in the policy) are prohibited. The board’s action was a motion by Board Vice President Kassandra Reyes and seconded by Board President Edward Ha; the roll-call vote recorded unanimous approval by all nine board members present.

District officials said the policy’s notification and venue provisions are designed to direct demonstrators to areas with controlled access and to allow appropriate security staffing while maintaining viewpoint neutrality. The policy also requires that violations of the Code of Conduct that occur during demonstrations be addressed under Board Policy 5600.

The policy will be posted in district policy materials and implemented at the building level. The board did not amend the policy at second reading and took final action during the meeting.