JACKSON BOARD TALKS DISCIPLINE, DIALOGUE

JACKSON, Mo. -- An off-campus disciplinary policy and methods to improve communication with the community were among items discussed by several Jackson school board members during a planning session Saturday.

The school board holds at least one planning session annually to discuss issues of concern and district goals and to prioritize needs. Board members Vicky McDowell, Darrell Hanschen and Jeannette Bollinger were absent from the meeting.

Board members discussed program, building and technology needs, as well as community-based planning sessions currently underway. The next session will be held at 7 p.m. Monday at Jackson Middle School.

Members said the school board and administrators should prioritize the need for improved communication with residents. They encouraged administrators to increase publicity about the district in local media and newsletters to parents. Administrators currently are surveying parents, staff and other groups in the community to determine how they view the district.

Seeking input

"I think it's important we stay engaged with the community," said Brent Wills. "When we knock on the door, they think we want their money. Right now, we're wanting them to give their input of the strengths and weaknesses of the district."

Board members also review-ed a draft of a disciplinary policy developed by the district's legal counsel that would enable administrators to address issues that occur off campus. Administrators would have the right to discipline students for any conduct violating the district's disciplinary provisions occurring off school property that "is prejudicial to good order and discipline in the schools or tends to impair the moral and good conduct of pupils."

Actions punishable under the policy would include smoking in view of school property and loitering of groups near a school if it is "detrimental to the safety, moral and good conduct of students." Student behavior at school bus pickup points would also be under the policy.

The school board will consider adopting the policy at a meeting later this year.

Board members questioned the broad statements in the policy, saying they couldn't see how it would be enforced.

"Where does it start, where does it stop?" asked Wills. "If we implement it, it needs to be very concise."

Schools Superintendent Dr. Ron Anderson said the policy already is enforced, as students may be disciplined for their actions while away from campus for a school activity.