Monthly Policy Updates - Level 1
On a monthly basis, participating districts are provided with either a Policy Update or Special Alert. The Policy Update includes an informational cover letter and a recommended sample policy based on the latest state and federal laws, regulations or other educational guidance. A Special Alert provides pertinent information and guidance on a current topic of importance to districts, but generally does not include a sample policy. These Monthly Updates and Alerts provide general information that is applicable and of interest to all districts, whether they have recently developed a Policy Manual or currently have a Policy Manual or currently have a Policy Manual from another source. Policy Updates and Alerts are sent electronically to designated staff in the school district. As the need arises, Policy Services may elect to send a "Special Alert" in place of an Update, which provides critical information of a pressing educational or legal issue currently affecting school districts. Each district is also assigned a policy coordinator from our office to provide policy support via telephone or email. Districts may request a limited number of sample policies and supporting information on a topic of district interest or concern. Policy Updates (Level 1) as a stand-alone service, are not recommended as a means to keep recently completed Policy Manuals fully up-to-date and compliant with the continual changes in law and regulation.
Previous Policy Updates have included:DASA-Records Management-Gender Identity (Nov. 2017)Diploma or Credential Options for Students with Disabilities (Jan. 2018)Wellness (April 2018)Meal Charging and Prohibition Against Meal Shaming; and Education of Students in Temporary Housing (May 2018)Participation in Graduation Ceremonies; and Diploma or Credentail Options for Students with Disabilities (June 2018)Allocation of Title I, Part A Funds in the District; and Education of Students in Foster Care (Aug. 2018)Procurement: Uniform Grant Guidance for Federal Awards (Sept. 2018)Sexual Harassment in the Workplace (Oct. 2018)
The district will provide Erie 1 BOCES Policy Services staff with current contact information (the full names and titles, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses) of designated district officials who should receive the monthly Policy Updates. The district must contact Policy Services immediately if this information changes to ensure uninterrupted receipt of the Monthly Policy Updates.
The Policy Update or Special Alert will address issues based on new law or regulation or exploration of a new "hot" topic related to education. Policy Services will provide districts with a monthly electronic copy of the Policy Update which includes a Cover Letter (comprehensive explanation and background information) and the sample policy. Each district will also be assigned a specific policy coordinator who will be available to answer district questions or supply a limited number of sample policies as requested. Guidance is also available on how to process the monthly Policy Updates on the Erie 1 BOCES website or upon request.Current and past Policy Updates are available in a password protected location on the Erie 1 BOCES website for participating districts.