RCS considers bullying policy updates

Richmond Community Schools could approve revised policies on bullying and student suicide awareness and prevention at its next meeting.

The board routinely reviews policies and considers updates to address changes in federal, state or local laws and regulations and modify wording.

Revisions to the bullying policy include:

• The victim’s safety shall be a priority at all times
• Parents of the targeted student and the reported bully should be notified no later than five business days after the incident is reported
• Follow-up services shall be provided during or after the investigation, including victim support and bullying education for the alleged perpetrator
• RCS will document bullying and abuse against a victim committed by a verified perpetrator

Both policies added that parents can review any materials used in bullying or suicide prevention programs.

At its March 12 meeting, the board also moved policies on student recognition, agendas, and threatening or intimidating behavior toward staff members to second readings and likely approvals.

The board’s next regular business meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 9, in the administration building, 300 Hub Etchison Parkway. The public may attend.

Board members, administrators and RCS attorney Ron Cross have begun separate policy work sessions to dive into details before bringing them to full board meetings.

Several policies during March 18’s policy work session will be discussed further between 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 8.

Topics are expected to include purchasing, automated external defibrillators, vending machines, idling school buses and vehicles, student accident insurance, web content/apps/services, coach training/references/IHSAA reporting, and public complaints/concerns.

A school calendar policy advanced to the April 9 board meeting.

Board work sessions and meetings are open to the public.

In other business

• Kristen Jones, who teaches English language learners at Charles and Starr elementaries, gave the board an update about the required annual WIDA test that she coordinates for RCS.

Students take four tests measuring their English language proficiency in speaking, listening, reading and writing. She thanked teachers who administered more than 1,300 tests during the testing window, as well as administrators and staff who assisted in various ways.

Jones also thanked the ELL students and their families for their participation.

“These past several months have been a time of uncertainty for this population, and yet our students have shown up for school and put forth their best efforts on these annual tests,” Jones said.

• The board awarded a $149,586 bid for heating/cooling work at the former Baxter Elementary, now Community Youth Services, to Greiner Brothers Inc.
• Bridget Hazelbaker, RCS director of student support and communications, presented communication goals. Goals include building strong community relationships, maximizing awareness through multiple media channels, improving internal communication and employee engagement, strengthening school-community connections, and ensuring efficient and coordinated communication.

A marketing plan will include goals and strategies for the district, with vendors submitting proposals.

Alex Hazelbaker, technology director, discussed improving RCS’ website for better communication with students, parents and staff.

• Karen Scalf, assistant superintendent of operations, discussed some legislative updates. House Bill 1402 and Senate Bill 1, which both affect how local governments and schools are funded, were expected to negatively impact RCS funding.