Submitted by Noblesville Schools
Editor’s note: The following information was sent to the Reporter on Wednesday.
While public comment at board meetings is not legally required, Noblesville Schools recognizes the value of public input on matters involving the school corporation.
The district has announced a series of clarifications and changes to their school board meeting protocols including:
- The board will not tolerate abusive or inappropriate language.
- Disruptions such as signage, clapping, booing, name calling, shouting or cheering during meetings will not be tolerated.
- Any member of the audience who is disruptive will be given a warning and if the disruptive activity continues, the audience member will be asked to leave.
- If several individuals are disruptive, the board president may choose to end the board meeting or call a recess.
- Public comments may not reference specific employees, patrons, or students.
- For safety purposes, meeting attendees may not bring large bags or backpacks into the meeting room and may be subject to inspection by a gun-detecting safety dog and/or law enforcement.
- Public input may be gathered in person or virtually, at the discretion of the presiding officer.
- Proof of Noblesville residency will be required when registering to speak.
- The total amount of meeting time designated for public comment is 45 minutes. Any speakers unable to make a public comment during this time may leave a written comment.
- The purpose of public comment is to share information with board members, not to engage in conversation or debate.
You can find the Public Participation at Board Meetings policy at this link.
Noblesville Schools announced earlier this month that the format of upcoming school board meetings and public comment (in-person or virtual) will be evaluated on a regular basis. Be sure to check this link for meeting status.