Flyer Explains What to Expect at BOE Meetings
A quick glance at the history of the Huntington School District indicates residents have long taken an active interest in the local public schools. Meetings of the Huntington Board of Education have typically drawn an enthusiastic crowd of folks who aren't bashful about asking questions and sharing their opinions.
The district has developed a one-page information sheet that provides an overview of "what to expect at a board of education meeting." The handy flyer is both comprehensive and concise. It summarizes in a one place a variety of practices and policies and provides important information for those who wish to actively participate in school board meetings.
"We hope this publication continues to be a handy reference for our residents," Huntington Superintendent James W. Polansky said. "Trustees and members of the administration welcome the public's attendance and participation at orderly meetings."
The flyer details the format used at meetings and lists a series of guidelines put in place concerning public commentary. A block of 30 minutes is set aside near the beginning of each meeting for those who wish to address trustees. Speakers are limited to three minutes each. "Commentary during this portion of the meeting is restricted to items on the agenda," explains the one-page information sheet.
If time permits, a second 30 minute period of public commentary will also be provided near the end of the meeting for items that are not on the agenda. During this period speakers are again limited to three minutes each.
The flyer provides numerous organizational details along with a description of the behavior expected of speakers. For example, "Employees should not be identified by name during public commentary," states the guide. "Comments relating to the competence or personal conduct of individuals are prohibited and shall be declared out of order."
Copies of the guide can be obtained by contacting District Clerk Elizabeth Troffa (673-2126 or etroffa@hufsd.edu) or by logging onto the district's website at www.hufsd.edu. Click on the "Leadership" link on the homepage and then select the link for "Board of Education" and then "Meetings." The flyer can be viewed and downloaded.