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Board adopts K-12 student code of conduct despite objections over enumerated protections
Summary
The Sarasota County School Board unanimously approved the K-12 student code of conduct for 2026-27 after debate about whether the policy should include enumerated protections for minority students; some board members said they opposed portions but supported the document as an operational roadmap.
After public comments raised concerns that the new code lacks enumerated protections for minority students, the board debated item 9.1 and voted unanimously to approve the K-12 student code of conduct for the 2026-27 school year.
Board member Barker acknowledged she had previously advocated for enumerated protections but said she would support the final code because it provides a clear progressive-discipline roadmap for principals and educators: "It is an excellent document," she said. Board member Edwards also expressed appreciation for staff accommodations and said the document was acceptable. The motion was made by Mrs. Barker and seconded by Mrs. Marinelli; a voice vote recorded unanimous approval.
Speakers during public comment, including student Andrew Light and others, said the code diminishes protections they had expected and highlighted provisions they said would affect transgender and minority students. The board approved the document and moved on to other agenda items; any further policy changes would follow the board's policy-review process.
