To provide full and open communication between the public and the Board of Education, the Board authorizes several avenues for the exchange of information, ideas and opinions. All of the following operate within the framework of the Board's scheduled meetings.

Written correspondence may be directed to the Board, through the Superintendent, for consideration at the meeting. Statements of two pages or less are encouraged.

A specifically designated time will be set aside for public comments at all regular meetings of the Board of Education. Patrons may address the Board on items of school business.

A patron who wishes to have an item placed on the agenda will present the request in writing to the Superintendent of Schools. To be considered, the request must be received five work days before the scheduled meeting.

From time to time, the Board will schedule a public hearing on matters of concern to the community, i.e., the annual budget.

All meetings of the Board of Education are presided over by a chairperson, with the primary purpose of conducting the business of the Board in a responsible and expeditious manner. Unless unusual circumstances dictate otherwise, the Board will not make a decision on an issue(s) presented by an individual or group during that particular meeting. The Board reserves the right to waive formalities in emergency situations, within the limitations of state statutes.

The chairperson will have the authority to regulate and limit public participation within the provisions of Board policies and accompanying regulations.