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Parents press board for clear procedures on classroom supplemental videos; trustees say policy work is underway
Summary
Two parents raised concerns about allegedly inappropriate or political videos shown in classrooms. Trustees acknowledged the complaints, described prior staff follow-up, and said the policy committee is drafting a supplemental-materials review process to address gaps in procedures and accountability for teachers.
Two members of the public used the audience-comment period March 9 to press the Great Falls Public Schools Board of Trustees for a clearer process for reviewing and approving supplemental instructional materials.
Why it matters: Parents said they were unable to locate videos their children viewed in class on district devices and questioned whether teachers can add materials without formal approval. Trustees responded that some of the concerns relate to communication breakdowns, that principals have engaged with parents, and that the policy committee is working on a supplemental-materials approval form and related processes.
Amber Campbell said her child viewed what she described as a political and “anti-American” video and asked how parents can review materials and hold teachers accountable. She said she was told supplemental material selections are treated as teacher professional choices and that she seeks a more formal approval pathway. Parent Steve Midge described following the district’s complaint process, meeting with the principal, and still wanting a clear standard operating procedure and consequences for deviations.
Trustees and administrators told the speakers they would review their concerns, that some follow-up meetings with principals already occurred, and that the policy committee will explore options to assess videos and other supplemental materials. Trustee Brownstead noted that no policy can anticipate every classroom situation but said the committee will draft workable procedures with teacher input.
Next steps: The board’s policy committee will continue to develop a supplemental-materials review process and bring draft language to trustees for review.
