Board approves revised sexual-harassment policy clarifying adult–student prohibitions

Assistant Superintendent Battersby presented edits to board policy 3205, noting the revisions respond to recent changes in state law and aim to make obligations and prohibitions clearer for staff, volunteers and the public. The presentation emphasized that the policy now highlights that any romantic or sexual contact between a student and district staff, volunteer or contractor is prohibited "regardless of student or parent will and consent." Staff said additional procedural details (reporting supports, access for students with differing abilities) will be addressed in operational procedures rather than in the high-level policy.

Director Martinez asked that the policy and follow-up procedures explicitly preserve attention to barriers different students may face when reporting and accessing support; staff agreed that the procedures will address those concerns and that further procedural material will be shared with the board. The board moved to approve the revised policy (motion moved by Director Tucker; seconded by Director Bradley) and the chair announced the changes were approved.