Board committee gives first reading of Policy 3421 to align with Title IX

Policy committee chair Rhett told trustees on Sept. 24 that the committee completed a first reading of Policy 3421, which he described as the district's Title IX discrimination and harassment policy and said the draft was reviewed with the district lawyer.

"State alignment, required roles, immediate support, fair grievance process, and strict anti-retaliation" were among the committee's key highlights, Rhett said, summarizing changes meant to align district practice with NYSED and federal standards. He said required roles include investigators and coordinators and that the policy outlines nonpunitive immediate supports such as counseling and schedule adjustments.

Superintendent Amy Creedon told the board that taking action on Oct. 8 would put the district into compliance with Title IX regulations. Rhett said the committee will continue to refine the language and return it to the full board; trustees were invited to raise questions for committee follow-up.

No vote was taken at the Sept. 24 meeting; the policy remains at first reading and will return for further discussion and potential action at a future board meeting.