Answer: Guidance here can be found in your district policy manual and specifically Board Bylaw 9311 School Board Policies. The AASB Model Policy version of BB 9311 states that new or revised policies are normally presented for a first reading at one meeting and brought back for a second reading and adoption at a subsequent meeting. The first reading allows the board time to review and ask questions of the Superintendent and/or Policy Committee members. Final approval occurs when the board votes at the second reading.
In most cases this means action occurs at two consecutive meetings, but the bylaw also allows the board to act more quickly when needed. By a majority vote, the board may waive the second reading and adopt a policy at the same meeting in which it is introduced if immediate action is in the district’s best interest. This structure balances thoughtful policy development with the flexibility to respond to timely circumstances.
