Public Participation in School Board Meetings

Comments to the School Board

Public Comment Procedures

Registration & Procedure
The Board allocates a specified period of time for public comment at each meeting. To address the Board, individuals may offer input during this portion of the meeting.

Guidelines for Public Comment

  • Time Limits: The Board may limit the time for each speaker to ensure that all individuals have an opportunity to be heard.

  • Respectful Conduct: Speakers are asked to be respectful of other speakers and refrain from personal attacks or disruptive behavior. Personal attacks, particularly on Board members or employees, will not be tolerated. Repeated violations of this guideline may result in the speaker being asked to leave.

  • Public Data & Data Privacy: Speakers are reminded that public comment must not violate the privacy rights of others, particularly in matters relating to employees or students. Comments should avoid discussing specific personnel or student information that is private under the law.

  • No Immediate Board Action: While the Board values public input, no formal action will typically be taken on items raised for the first time by the public during the same meeting unless deemed necessary by the Board in an emergency.

Complaints About Personnel
Routine complaints regarding a specific teacher or other employee should first be directed to the teacher or employee’s immediate supervisor. Complaints about child abuse, discrimination, harassment, or other serious issues should be addressed to the designated school district official or the superintendent. Unresolved issues at the superintendent level may be brought to the Board in writing.

The Board will not consider complaints or issues involving personnel in public sessions if they involve confidential data, personal allegations, or legal matters. These will be handled as determined by the Board, in compliance with governing laws.

Work Sessions

Public Participation at School Board Work Sessions
Work Sessions provide the Board with an opportunity to study issues in more depth. These sessions are typically held periodically at the school building, and are open to the public. However, no formal action will be taken during Work Sessions. The public may attend but should not expect a two-way dialogue or interactive discussion with the Board.

Data Privacy Considerations

The Board is committed to ensuring that all public discussions comply with state and federal laws protecting personal data privacy. Personnel data (e.g., employee performance, evaluations) and student data (e.g., academic records, disciplinary actions) are protected under Minnesota Statutes § 13.43 and FERPA (20 U.S.C. § 1232g). Public comments should avoid revealing personal data or making defamatory remarks about individuals, particularly when it concerns private or confidential information.

Penalties for Violating Data Privacy
The Board adheres strictly to data privacy laws and regulations. Any person violating these laws may face legal consequences, including fines or criminal penalties.