March 12, 2026 at 12:00 PM - Board Policy Committee meeting

1. CALL TO ORDER
 

2. GCBD-Sick Leave-Personal Illness and Injury Leave

This policy establishes sick leave provisions for employees in accordance with Oregon law and applicable collective bargaining agreements. It outlines how sick leave is accrued, accumulated, and used for personal illness or injury. The policy also defines documentation requirements for extended absences, procedures when sick leave is exhausted, and the impact on employment status and benefits.

In addition, it affirms the district’s responsibility to maintain confidentiality of medical information and to comply with state and federal laws, including family and medical leave protections. Overall, the policy provides a clear framework for supporting employee health while maintaining operational continuity.

  

3. IKJA- Artificial Intelligence (AI) use for Language Access, Translation, and Interpreting in MESD K-12 Education
As artificial intelligence (AI) tools become increasingly integrated into educational environments, clear standards are necessary to ensure their responsible and lawful use in language access, translation, and interpreting services. School districts have longstanding civil rights and statutory obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, the Equal Educational Opportunities Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to provide meaningful, accurate, and timely communication to multilingual students and families and to individuals with disabilities. This policy establishes guardrails to ensure that AI serves as a supportive tool—rather than a replacement for qualified human language professionals—while maintaining compliance with federal and state law, protecting student privacy, upholding professional translation standards, and safeguarding equitable access to educational programs and services.

4. JGA-Corporal Punishment

This policy prohibits the use of corporal punishment in any form and affirms MESD’s commitment to a safe and respectful learning environment. It defines corporal punishment consistent with Oregon law and clarifies that only statutorily authorized physical force may be used, and never as a form of discipline.

The policy also aligns with state laws governing restraint and seclusion and outlines consequences for violations by staff or volunteers. The Superintendent is responsible for ensuring all personnel are informed of these requirements.

This policy supports student safety, professional standards, and legal compliance.

5. JN-Student Fees, Fines and Charges

This policy establishes guidelines for student fees and charges associated with MESD programs and activities that are not supported by local, state, or federal funding. It affirms that no student will be denied access to an education due to inability to pay, while maintaining accountability for lost or damaged District property.

The policy requires annual publication of all fees and charges and outlines notice requirements, due process protections, and potential restrictions for unpaid debts, consistent with Oregon law. It further ensures that education records will not be withheld in circumstances outlined in ORS 326.575 and that required notice is provided prior to debt collection in accordance with ORS 339.270.

This policy supports transparency, equity, and legal compliance in the administration and collection of student fees and charges.

6. JE-Attendance

This policy establishes the District’s expectations regarding student attendance and outlines the educational purpose underlying those expectations. Regular and punctual attendance is directly connected to student academic success, credit attainment, and fulfillment of Oregon graduation requirements. The policy further emphasizes shared responsibility among students and parents, guardians, or persons in a parental relationship, while reinforcing the importance of accountability and informed decision-making.

The policy also ensures timely communication with families regarding unplanned student absences, consistent with state requirements and best practices for student safety and engagement. Additionally, it directs the Superintendent and Cabinet to develop and annually publish administrative regulations to support consistent implementation across schools.

This policy supports student achievement, family engagement, and compliance with Oregon law.

7. JFCC- Student Conduct on Buses/vehicles

This policy affirms that MESD-operated buses and vehicles are extensions of the school environment and establishes clear expectations for student conduct while using District transportation. It outlines reporting procedures, potential consequences for violations, and the authority to deny transportation privileges when appropriate to maintain safety.

The policy also ensures compliance with applicable state and federal laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and clarifies that required procedural safeguards will be followed when discipline involves students with disabilities or those the District has reason to suspect may have a disability.

This policy promotes student safety, accountability, and legal compliance across MESD programs.

8. JGB-Detention of Students

This policy outlines the conditions under which students may be detained after school for disciplinary purposes. It establishes requirements for parent, guardian, or person in a parental relationship notification and ensures appropriate transportation arrangements are made, particularly for students who utilize bus services. When necessary, alternative disciplinary measures must be implemented if transportation cannot be arranged.

The policy also addresses procedures for detaining students in cases of suspected child abuse, ensuring coordination with the appropriate authorities. Additionally, it requires that students remain supervised at all times during detention.

This policy supports student safety, clear communication with families, and consistent, legally compliant disciplinary practices across MESD programs.

9. JFCA-Student Dress and Grooming

This policy outlines expectations for student dress and grooming, recognizing that primary responsibility rests with students and their parents, guardians, or persons in a parental relationship. At the same time, it affirms the District’s authority to ensure that student appearance does not disrupt the learning environment or pose a threat to health and safety.

The policy also provides that students representing MESD in voluntary activities may be required to meet approved dress and grooming standards as a condition of participation.

This policy supports a safe, respectful, and disruption-free learning environment while balancing individual responsibility and District expectations.

10. JFCB-Care of MESD Property by Students

This policy affirms student responsibility for the care and respect of MESD property. It establishes that students who willfully damage or deface District property are subject to discipline and may be required to provide restitution for associated costs.

The policy further declares the Board’s intent to hold students and their parents, guardians, or persons in a parental relationship financially responsible for loss or damage to District property, with annual notice provided of this intent.

This policy promotes accountability, stewardship of public resources, and clear communication with families regarding financial responsibility.

11. JGDA/JGEA-Discipline of Students with Disabilities

This policy outlines the disciplinary procedures applicable to students with disabilities and ensures compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It affirms that MESD will follow all required special education procedures and provide appropriate procedural safeguards when disciplinary actions may result in removal from a student’s educational placement.

The policy clarifies the circumstances under which short-term removals are permitted, when removals constitute a change of placement, and the requirement to conduct a manifestation determination review. It also addresses disciplinary removals involving drugs, weapons, or serious bodily injury, consistent with federal law.

Additionally, the policy ensures that students removed for more than 10 school days in a school year continue to receive educational services as determined by the IEP and placement teams.

This policy supports student rights, legal compliance, and consistent implementation of discipline procedures for students with disabilities.

12. JH-Student Welfare

This policy establishes MESD’s responsibility to provide appropriate student supervision during the school day and at MESD-sponsored activities, while clearly defining the hours during which supervision is available. It affirms the District’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment.

The policy outlines expectations for facility safety inspections, safe practices in instructional and extracurricular settings, and the provision of relevant safety education. It also ensures that first-aid care is available in the event of accident or sudden illness and establishes procedures for reporting suspicious activity.

This policy supports student safety, proactive risk management, and clear communication with families regarding supervision and safety expectations.