The Board's function is decision-making. It may seek the sentiments of the public to assist it in making decisions, but time spent answering routine questions or criticisms must not be taken from more important Board business.
Generally, if a citizen has a question about the operation of the schools, he/she is encouraged to contact the administrator closest to the situation. Experience has shown that this is the best procedure. The questioner gets the needed response directly; the Board is free to consider more substantive matters.
Although there is no legal requirement that the public be given an opportunity to speak at Board meetings, it will be the policy of this Board to afford that opportunity in accordance with the following procedures:
Only items on the written Board agenda will be discussed by Board Members at any special meeting of the Board and only items on the agenda as approved or amended will be discussed at any regular meeting of the board.
A Board Meeting is a meeting held in public for the Board members to conduct school business. There are however two means by which the public may provide input to the Board.
1. By requesting through the Superintendent’s Office to be placed on the Board Agenda. Such requests must be in writing to the President of the Board or the Superintendent by the Wednesday prior to the Board meeting and must include the topic to be discussed.
2. By submitting the Public Participation Form two hours prior to the regular school board meeting to the Superintendent or the President of the Board. Board members will listen but will not take action except to forward the topic to administration or place it on the next regular meeting’s agenda.
This procedure is intended to minimize the risk of a possible action for libel or slander, to retain the impartiality of the Board, and to maximize compliance with North Dakota law.
SPEAKER INFORMATION
• The speaker should stand during hearing period and be recognized by the presiding officer.
• State name and address.
• State subject and item number which the speaker will address.
• 3 minute time limit for speakers
• No undue interruption, disorderly conduct and remarks made out of order
• No Charges or Complaints, against district employees are allowed • No Challenges of instructional materials used in the district.
• Questions and Comments by Board and District Administrator: Board members and the district administrator may interrogate a speaker or make comments in response to the speaker's remarks.
