It's Up to You to Know District Policies

Adoption and revision of board policies is solely a board’s responsibility. How familiar are you with the policy adoption/revision process in your own district? The following questions reflect important procedures related to the policy adoption process. For answers, refer to your board policy, School Board Policy Process (BG).

We’ve added general responses to point you in the right direction, but it is imperative that you learn the policies for your district.

• How many readings/meetings are required to adopt a new policy in your district?
• Varies – usually two or three.
• If your policy adoption process requires three readings/meetings, and your board only meets once a month, is the board allowed to change the adoption process to two meetings/readings?
• Yes – to expedite the process.
• Can my board merely remove obsolete policies from its manual, or is a formal process required for policy repeal?
• Policies must be formally repealed by a board.
• Does an amendment to a policy require an additional reading?
• Not necessarily. Sometimes, if a board believes it would be helpful.
• What happens if an emergency occurs, and my board needs a policy it does not have?
• A board can temporarily approve a policy to meet emergencies, but adoption procedure is required before policy is considered permanent.
• Is my board allowed to temporarily suspend a policy?
• Yes, by a majority vote at any regular or special meeting; does not apply to policies established by law or contract.
• Must my board follow its regular adoption process when revisions are mandated by changes in law?
• Such revisions may be accomplished in one reading if allowable by the board’s adoption process.
• Must my board adopt regulations?
• If they are required by law, yes, and/or if they are of particular significance to the district and the board deems it advisable.
• Should my board review administrative regulations issued by the superintendent?
• Yes, it’s a good idea. They should be vetoed or revised only if the regulations are inconsistent with board policy
• Is my board required to allow the public to inspect its policies?
• Yes, they are public records.