Public Comments

In order to maintain open lines of communication, the Board will provide time for public comments during its business meetings. Public comments will be heard only during the designated Public Comments portion of the agenda.

Any person who is a student, parent, resident, employee, citizen, patron, stakeholder, or official representative of a recognized group or organization of this school district may address the Board for a maximum of three (3) minutes, subject to the rules of decorum and time limits established by the Board Chairperson. When multiple speakers wish to address the same topic, they are encouraged to designate a spokesperson to avoid repetition and ensure that all topics may be heard within the allotted time. Unless otherwise provided, public comments will only be allowed during periods specifically allotted for that purpose. Citizens of the District, including delegations or individuals, are encouraged to attend meetings of the Board and to listen to and observe its deliberations, including through livestream media.

In the interest of orderly conduct, spontaneous discussion from the floor shall not be permitted. The dignity of all persons in attendance shall be respected. Speakers must refrain from personal attacks, threats, or behavior that disrupts the orderly business of the meeting. Comments shall be directed to the Board as a whole, not to individual members, employees, or students.

Individuals are requested to seek resolution of specific problems at the school site or through the appropriate central office department. Persons are encouraged to write to the Board or Superintendent with general questions, concerns, or suggestions. Each person will receive notice of receipt of written correspondence, which may include a response.

Individuals who wish to address an agenda-related topic at a regularly scheduled business meeting are required to complete a Public Comments Sign-up Form before the Board meeting convenes.  An OKCPS staff member will be at a table in the foyer outside the meeting auditorium with Public Comment Sign-up Forms between 4:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting.  Forms must be submitted during this time window.  Public comments must pertain to a topic listed on the agenda for that meeting.

All persons who wish to speak at Board meetings must comply with this policy. School Board policies, state law, and federal law establish separate procedures and forums for collective bargaining, employee or student grievances, employee discipline or termination, and student suspensions or appeals. These matters should be addressed through the appropriate administrative or legal process rather than during public comment. To ensure fairness to all parties and preserve the integrity of ongoing proceedings, no person will be allowed to speak regarding:

1. Issues subject to collective bargaining;
2. Specific facts or allegations in any pending grievance, investigation, or litigation involving the District or its employees (general comments on policy are permitted);
3. Comments regarding the performance of individual employees or students;
4. Comments disclosing confidential student or personnel information protected by law;
5. Student disciplinary matters which may ultimately reach the Board;
6. Solicitations for business or services to the District;
7. Campaigning, solicitation of votes, or other electioneering activities; or
8. Personal attacks, meaning remarks directed at a person’s private character or motives rather than their official acts or policies, threats, or conduct that disrupts the orderly business of the meeting.

The Board Chairperson may interrupt or terminate any presentation that is not in accordance with this policy or that disrupts the orderly conduct of the meeting. Board members will not respond to speakers’ comments during the meeting.