Parents request changes to student handbook

Several parents have come forward, requesting the school board change the wording in the school’s handbook regarding sexual harassment and sexual abuse due to the recent issues that have been happening at Delaware Valley High School. Concerned about the school’s safety, parents are proposing stricter consequences for misconduct while advocating for support programs for victims. It was also noted by some parents that the students who were punished for recently protesting the school for what they described as a lack of response to sexual abuse allegations were unjustly given suspensions and that their bravery in demanding change from the district should not go unnoticed.

The student handbook was last changed in 2021. Every five years, the school board examines the handbook for possible revisions. Parents, however, are asking for the board to review section 16 of the handbook, which focuses on sexual harassment, sooner than scheduled. The board is urging parents to read the article on sexual harassment as it’s written on the school’s website at dvsd.org/domain/1111.

Student health

The request by a family seeking the school to download an app that will help track blood sugar for diabetic students who are required to wear a CGM (continuous glucose monitor) will be addressed at the next school board meeting. There had been some argument about whether the financial responsibilities outweighed the safety of the child, but with the issue finally being addressed on the agenda at the next school board meeting, the family was hopeful to see some progress.

Meeting procedures

While there is no official policy about answering questions during the public commentary at the school board meetings, some parents and board members expressed concerns regarding communication, or the lack thereof. There are two periods for public comment: two minutes after the agenda is adopted and three minutes at the end of the meetings. These times were reportedly put in place because of some heated exchanges in the past. The board added that, while certain questions can be answered with ease, many questions are more complex and require certain channels that must be addressed before answers can be given.

Other business

The debate team came in first place in their recent competition and was noted at the meeting for their stellar performance.

A new after school program is being considered for students interested in special education once they graduate. The SHINE (Schools and Home in Education) program will provide students with a chance to learn about professions directly involved with schools.

There will be a class at 6:30 p.m. at the high school on December 3 to teach parents how to look for warning signs of drug use.

The next school board meeting will be on December 12 at 6 p.m.