Controversial Speakers Procedure
No overall standard can be established which will automatically separate and exclude as a resource the person whose views or manner of presenting them may actually obstruct the education process or endanger the health and safety of students or staff. The Board, in an effort to uphold the students’ freedom to learn while also recognizing obligations which the exercise of this freedom entails, establishes the following rules:
- Selection of speakers and topics must be appropriate to the age and grade level of the students;
- Selection of speakers and topics should be congruent with the curriculum of the course or function;
- The teacher/sponsor and Executive Director or designee shall investigate fully those proposed resource persons the wisdom whose presence the community may question;
- The teacher, sponsor, or designee must give one week prior notification to the Principal or designee. The Executive Director or designee may waive the one week notification requirement if extenuating circumstances are present;
- Minimal disruption to the normal flow of school operation is a high priority;
- An attempt to provide a balance of viewpoints is recommended when dealing with controversial issues or candidates for public office;
- No person who encourages or advocates breaking the law shall be invited to speak;
- Teachers should ensure that the presentation and follow up is consistent with Charter School approved programs and policies;
- The teacher must retain primary responsibility for the instruction and supervision of students when using an outside speaker. The teacher must be present at all times when speakers are in the classroom;
- Prior to his or her appearance or participation, the proposed speaker shall be given in writing and shall agree to abide by the following regulations: A. Profanity, vulgarity and lewd comments are prohibited; B. Tobacco use is prohibited; and C. The teacher or sponsor responsible for inviting the resource person and any member of the school administration has the right and duty to interrupt or suspend any proceedings if the conduct of the resource person is judged to be in poor taste or endangering the safety of students and staff.
- In the event an outside community speaker is denied access to the classroom, the teacher may request a meeting to be held between the Principal or designee and the teacher or sponsor. The meeting shall be held no later than five working days from the date of the request for the meeting. The Executive Director shall review with the teacher or sponsor pertinent information concerning the request and render a final decision on the issue.
Procedure History:
Promulgated on: June 14, 2021
Revised on:
Reviewed on: