November 1, 2018 at 7:00 PM - Board of Education Policy Committee Meeting

Rationale: 

For Informational Purposes Only - Regulation Update 

This item is for informational purposes only.   There was only a slight change in this regulation.  The change made was to align language within our return to play protocol with the CIAC.  The previous language had allowed Athletic Trainers to provide final clearance for return to play after a concussion.   Our Health Supervisor, Medical Advisor  and Athletic Director agree wit the CIAC, that a licensed medical professional is the only one who should determining if an athlete should return to play after a concussion.  

 

Rationale:  This a revision to an already existing policy.  The major change in the policy is related to changes in legislation regarding the carrying of Epi Pens for students with life threatening food allergies, including on a school bus.  It also requires that bus drivers be trained in the administration of Epi Pens.   We have already contacted First Student who will conduct the training for it's drivers.   The suggested language changes came from a Shipman and Goodwin Model Policy.  This policy was reviewed and revised by our Health Supervisor, Lisa Davenport.   

Rationale:  This is the first reading of this policy/regulation.   In the last session, the legislature distinguished between Seclusion and Exclusionary Time Out.  The policy updates legislative definition of Exclusionary Time Out and guidelines for the use.  The recommended changes come directly from the Shipman and Goodwin Model Policy.  The policy has been reviewed by Mrs. Budris, Director of Pupil Personnel, Ms. DiBiase, Supervisor of Special Education and our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA).  

Rationale: 

While developing the policy for Therapy Dogs, we recognized that we also need a policy for Service Dogs.  Service Dogs fall under a different category than Therapy Dogs as they are subject to the Americans with Disabilities Act or ADA.  The model policy attached was provided to us by Shipman and and Goodwin.  This is the second reading of the policy.  

Policy was tabled for questions for Board attorney about proof of compliance under section C. 6. 

Dr. Carver checked with Board attorney regarding required documentation/guidelines of a service dog, like we have in the therapy dog policy.  

Rationale: 

Bethel Public Schools receives this federal grant, whose primary purpose is to provide intervention for at risk students.  As a result of receiving the Federal dollars, the new Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), requires Boards of Education, who accept that funding, to develop a written policy on how they will engage parents.

It was the consensus of the committee on June 8, 2017 to recommend Policy 6172.4 Parent and Family Engagement Policy for Title I Students be submitted to the full Board of Education for a first reading. 

However, the policy was not included in the agenda and therefore will need to go to the full Board for First Reading.

 

Rationale: 

Attached is a suggested Bylaw on the Board's Use of Social Media.  The Connecticut Association of Boards of Education is recommending BOE adoption of policy on this topic.