Board approves first reading of new crowdfunding policy after debate over superintendent authority

The Monongalia County Board of Education voted to advance policy 6605, a new crowdfunding policy, to public comment after board members debated language that gives the superintendent authority to approve or deny crowdfunding requests.

Discussion: Board members said they had expected an opportunity to submit edits before the first reading and questioned the draft language that states crowdfunding approval rests with the superintendent. One board member asked what recourse a parent‑teacher organization would have if the superintendent denied a crowdfunding request; another said the board could be asked to reconsider a superintendent decision only through public comment or by having the PTO appear at a board meeting. The superintendent responded that current fundraising policy already places approval authority with the superintendent and that routine fundraisers are evaluated against policy and applicable law.

Why it matters: Crowdfunding platforms and third‑party fundraisers can raise legal and administrative concerns about platform fees, data collection and compliance with district policies. Several board members said they wanted an appeal or review mechanism so PTOs could seek board review if denied.

Vote and next steps: The board voted to approve the policy for first reading, which will send it out for a 30‑day public comment period and allow additional changes before final adoption. No final policy adoption occurred at the meeting; the item will return to the board after public input.

Ending: Board members said they may request edits after public comment, and the administration said it will forward public feedback and recommended changes back to the board.