Board advances first reading of employee video and audio-recording policy

The board advanced a first reading of a new district policy, policy 73-25, governing video and audio recordings by employees.

District staff said the policy is a recommendation from the North Carolina School Boards Association and that proposed changes include limiting types of security cameras, requiring superintendent approval for cameras, adding notification requirements when recording capabilities exist, clarifying which meetings can include recordings, and explicitly tying classroom recordings to educational purposes approved by a principal. Staff said the recommendation was issued March 31, 2026, and moved to second reading by the policy committee on May 19, 2026.

"In quite a few of those meetings that take place with supervisors, there's protected information in those meetings," a presenter said, explaining why the draft policy requires notice for recordings in supervisor meetings even though North Carolina is a one-party consent state. Barb asked whether the policy is stricter than state law and the presenter said the rule is intended to protect student and personnel privacy and to ensure both parties are aware recordings might be shared outside the district.

Board members did not oppose the first reading; the motion to approve first reading carried by voice vote. Administration indicated the policy will return for additional consideration and a second reading according to the policy committee's schedule.

The transcript does not record a roll-call tally for the first reading; the motion passed by general assent.