Parents and members press for formal fraternization policy; subcommittee requests 2023 backup and draft

Public commenters and members of the Fall River City Policy Subcommittee on Jan. 30 reiterated support for a formal fraternization policy to clarify acceptable boundaries between staff and students and between staff and supervisors.

Nelson Vasquez and Taylor Perry spoke during public comment in favor of a written fraternization policy. Vasquez said a formal policy is “essential to uphold ethical standards, professional integrity, and the overall welfare of the school community,” and Perry, speaking as a parent, urged clarity so “every child deserves to feel safe, respected, and protected in their learning environment.”

The superintendent told the subcommittee that in November 2023 legal counsel (Attorney Assad) recommended adopting an advisory rather than a formal policy; that advisory was shared at the previous meeting but not included in the current packet. Several members said they want to see the prior advisory and any draft policy recommended in 2023 before sending a policy to the full committee so counsel can confirm the viability of a formal policy.

The subcommittee voted to request the superintendent bring a draft fraternization policy and the 2023 backup material (including Attorney Assad’s advisory and minutes) to the next subcommittee meeting for review. Members clarified that, for public clarity, fraternization refers to staff-with-staff relationships (distinct from staff-student misconduct, which is handled under other policies).