Counselor and residents criticize board for overturning multiple HIB findings; call for clearer process and support for staff

During the meeting's public-comment period, counselor and anti-bullying specialist Gina Deloro publicly criticized the board for overturning several HIB (Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying) determinations that had passed review by anti-bullying specialists, principals and the superintendent. Deloro said she was "bewildered" and called it "baffling" that the elected board would reverse decisions made after multi-stage investigations.

Deloro said the cases in question had been investigated by trained specialists with advanced degrees, that investigations had followed the Anti‑Bullying Bill of Rights procedures, and that the board’s reversals sent the wrong message to victims. "It is baffling that a decision that has made it through three rounds of approvals was overturned by the board," she said, adding that professionals were not given clarifying questions or a chance to explain their findings during the board’s review.

Other members of the public echoed concerns. Ramia Curri and Adam Harwitz urged the board to support teachers and administrators, questioned patterns of board alignment with local special-interest groups, and warned that changes to policies could create legal exposure if language is vague. Harwitz referenced an out‑of‑state trial-court memorandum (Pennsylvania) as an illustration of legal risk from vague free-speech or public‑comment rules, urging the board to seek legal guidance before finalizing policies.

Board members and administrators acknowledged the public concerns, noted ongoing policy reviews and legal consultation on several draft policies, and said some items will return to committee for further work. The public urged clearer communication, transparency, and stronger supports for staff conducting sensitive investigations.

No formal reversal of board procedure was made at this meeting; public commenters asked for policy clarifications and additional administrator‑led presentations to explain programs and processes (including the behavioral-health provider and guidance‑policy changes) to the community.