School Board begins discussion of policy regarding restricted Wednesday night activities

At Monday night's meeting, the Decorah Community School Board began to review an existing policy that restricts school-sponsored activities on Wednesday nights. Currently the policy states that there will be no middle school activities beyond 5:00 p.m. and none beyond 6:00 p.m. for the high school. The policy was last changed in 2014, specifically related to middle school activities. The policy exempts sanctioned tournament games.

Member Ben Lange pointed out the policy was not universally followed. Members agreed that it should be adhered to or revised to realistically address school, individual student and community needs (particularly in regard to church activities). They are interested in input from interested church organizations.

Superintendent Mark Lane said he would craft a draft policy prior to the August board meeting after consulting with middle and high school staff who engage in activities scheduling. The discussion also led to questions about what activities are supervised, or not, after regular school hours.