A discussion on revised student handbooks sparked a discussion on consistency in all the handbooks and talk of how certain terms should be defined.  For example, what is the difference between parents and families when referenced in the handbooks?  Also, how are certain terms defined, such as microaggression?

Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) School Board member Brad Boyer asked why the word punishment is not used in discipline, instead using the work “consequences.”  Superintendent Yvonne Stokes says the work punishment, as defined, does not express how students are disciplined, where saying there are consequences for certain behavior more accurately reflects school discipline policy.

The board decided to table the decision on adopting these changes when it was pointed out that there is not consistency in school policies.

The board discussed several policies on first reading, including homework and public participation in school board meetings.  Some of the revisions were made to be consistent with changes in state law.  The policies will be presented for approval at a future board meeting.

In other items before the HSE Board Wednesday night:

–There was a lengthy board discussion on the review of literacy resource materials in grades kindergarten through 6th grade.  The board plans to vote on the materials at a board meeting set for 7:30am May 17.  For the presentation made to the board by Executive Director of Elementary Education Stephanie Loane  use this link.

–The board provided administrators emergency hiring authority.  There will be no regular board meeting for the remainder of May and Kim Lippe, Director of Human Resources, says this is the busiest time of year for school district hiring.  This emergency authority will allow administrators to hire staff for the coming school year.

–The board received a presentation on the world language program.  For more on this, access this link.

–The board discussed the options of awarding a contract to replace the tennis courts at Fishers High School and delayed a decision until the meeting May 17th.  An asphalt court costs less at the outset, but only has a 2-year warranty and tends to need more frequent maintenance.  A concrete court costs more initially, but tends to require less maintenance and comes with a 10-year warranty.  Because it is unclear whether the current budget has the amount of money to fund a concrete court, the board delayed the decision.

–The board approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Indiana Online to provide virtual learning to families choosing that option.

–Approval was given for a boiler replacement for the Fishers High School swimming pool.