The Moses Lake School District Board of Directors voted to adopt an amended Policy 5400 on Thursday, Sept. 18, clarifying procedures for unpaid leave, coaching compensation and related operational practices.

Reason for change: Board member Paul Hill asked whether the policy update was a result of a recent audit; district staff confirmed it was, and staff said the district has already been following the practice but added it to board policy for clarity. When asked, district staff replied simply, “Yes. It is.”

Key points of the adopted policy: The redlined changes discussed at the meeting make explicit that the superintendent may approve unpaid leave in extenuating circumstances when employees exhaust paid leave. The policy also establishes that certificated coaches previously paid stipends would be paid under an hourly model when their coaching responsibilities conflict with other paid work, and that employees may be allowed unpaid leave so they are not double‑paid for district duties.

Chaperones and volunteers: Board members asked about chaperone gender ratios and background‑check processes. District staff said procedures will be developed to ensure equitable opportunities for employees to serve as chaperones and to recruit approved parent volunteers, noting most buildings maintain long volunteer lists and background checks are in place.

Vote and implementation: A motion to adopt Policy 5,400 as amended was made and seconded; the board approved the policy by voice vote. Staff said accompanying procedures will be developed to operationalize the policy.

Ending: Board members said the policy change brings clarity to longstanding practices and will be followed by written procedures. No specific fiscal impact numbers were provided during the meeting.