The October school board meeting commenced with a significant change in protocol due to a letter from the Freedom From Religion Foundation, which has prompted the board to reconsider its long-standing practice of opening meetings with prayer. In response, the board held a moment of silence instead, as they evaluate their options regarding this matter.
President John Larson, who participated via phone, expressed gratitude for the community's presence and handed over the meeting to LaMista Schultz, who was appointed to run the session in his absence. The agenda and minutes from the previous meeting were approved without opposition, and the board moved on to financial matters.
Karen Smith presented the financials, which included the approval of vouchers and the student activities report. The board ratified these financial items unanimously.
Public comments were invited, with residents given three minutes each to speak. Larry LeBlanc, a local resident, voiced concerns about perceived inaction from the board regarding previous requests and highlighted issues related to record request protocols. He also called for a public explanation regarding the Title IX amendment and requested that it be added to the next agenda for discussion.
The meeting underscored the board's commitment to transparency and community engagement, as they navigate both procedural changes and public concerns.