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Board adopts revised goals and agrees to research staff social‑media and photo practices
Summary
The board took its annual goals off the table, debated adding a goal tied to staff use of social media and student photos, and approved revised goal wording; members asked staff to research usage, parental consent practices and potential policy options before any policy change.
The West Bath School Board voted to take board goals off the table for discussion and ultimately approved revised wording that expands the focus to pre‑K through grade‑12 students and the broader community. The Chair moved to take the goals off the table and the motion passed; later the board approved the revised wording by motion and voice vote.
Discussion centered on whether the board should add a goal related to staff use of social media and the effects of student photos on mental-health messaging. Board member Joanne raised the issue and cited a popular book to underline concerns. "It's called the anxious generation," Joanne said, referring to research on children's mental health and social media effects. Superintendent Emily outlined existing safeguards: permissions collected in first‑day packets, annual opt‑in/opt‑out protections and internal procedures to flag where photos can be used.
Board members agreed they did not have enough information at this meeting to write a policy and proposed options for learning more: book studies, workshops, guest speakers or an ad hoc committee to research the issue and report back. The board favored pursuing research and internal discussions rather than immediate policy changes; they instructed staff to bring factual findings and possible options to a later meeting before any policy action is proposed.
