School Board Adopts New Title IX Policies Amid Controversy

In a special board meeting held on August 27, 2024, the Upper Darby School District Board of School Directors addressed several key issues, including updates to policies related to Title IX regulations and the adoption of various reports.

The meeting commenced with a reminder of public participation procedures, allowing in-person attendees to comment on specific reports and providing options for virtual participation via phone or email. Board President Fields confirmed that all members were present and moved to approve the agenda, which was unanimously accepted.

Director Neal Desnoyers presented significant updates to four policies and two attachments concerning discrimination and Title IX regulations. These updates were necessitated by changes published by the U.S. Department of Education in April 2024. Notably, Policy 103.2 was introduced, addressing non-discrimination based on sex for incidents occurring after August 1, 2024, outside of Upper Darby High School and Drexel Hill Middle School, which are currently under litigation regarding the new regulations. The board voted to waive the second reading of these policies, allowing for immediate adoption.

Additionally, the meeting included the adoption of the transportation and facilities reports, with Director Murphy Morrissey acknowledging community donations for school supplies. No public comments were received during the meeting, and the session concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was also unanimously approved.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to updating policies in compliance with federal regulations while ensuring community engagement through structured public participation.