BG: SCHOOL COMMITTEE POLICY
The Kittery School Committee considers policy development its most important governance function.
It is the intent of the School Committee to develop written policies that will serve as the foundation for the successful and efficient operation of the Kittery School Department and its schools.
The School Committee accepts the definition of policy set forth by the National School Boards Association:
School Committee policies are statements that set forth the purposes and prescribe in general terms the organization and program of a school system. They create a framework within which the Superintendent and the staff can discharge their assigned duties with positive direction. They tell what is wanted. They may also indicate why and how much. Policies should define clearly the goals and objectives of the school system, allow for the flexibility that is vital in day-to-day operations, reflect the board’s vision, define roles and responsibilities (who is supposed to do what), and include measurable outcomes.
The School Committee’s policies are framed and meant to be interpreted in terms of federal laws and regulations, state statutes and the rules of the Maine Department of Education, the State Board of Education, and other regulatory agencies at various levels of government. The School Committee’s policies are also intended to reflect the School Committee’s educational philosophy and instructional objectives and practices and procedures that are supported by research and generally accepted by leaders and authorities in the field of public education.
It is the School Committee’s intent that its policies set goals and provide direction and guidance for administrators, staff, and students and to serve as sources of information for parents, community members and others who are interested in or connected with the schools.
The School Committee regards policy development and review as an ongoing process.
The need for a new policy or revision or deletion of an existing policy may arise from a change in law and/or regulations, modification of the school unit’s vision or goals, educational research or trends, the occurrence of a significant incident or a recommendation or request from School Committee members, school administrators, staff, parents, students or other interested persons.
Adoption of new or revised policies and repeal/rescission of existing policies is solely the responsibility of the School Committee. Policies will be adopted, amended or repealed only by the affirmative vote of a majority of members present and voting.
Policies shall become effective upon School Committee adoption or at a future date designated by the School Committee at the time of adoption.
The Superintendent/designee will be responsible for distributing new or revised polices to School Committee members and for making policies accessible to school personnel, students and the public.
Adopted: July 5, 1994
Revised: January 2, 1996; April 12, 2011
Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA §1001 (1)(A)
Cross Reference: BEDF – Voting Procedure
BG-R – Policy Adoption Procedure