9326.11 - Broadcasting - Taping of Meetings

Bylaws of the Board of Education

9326.11 - Broadcasting/Taping of Meetings

Photographic and electronic audio and video broadcasting and recording devices may be used at regular and special Board of Education (Board) meetings legally open to the public according to the following guidelines:

• Photographs, broadcasting, and recordings of meetings are permitted only when all parties involved have been informed that cameras, broadcasting, and/or recording devices will be used.

• Persons operating cameras, broadcasting, and/or recording devices must do so with a minimum of disruption to those present at the meeting. Specifically, the view between Board members and the audience must not be obstructed, interviews must not be conducted during the meeting, and no commentary is to be given in a manner that distracts Board members or the audience.

• The Board will make the necessary arrangements to have video recordings of all regular meetings and any special meeting that it deems appropriate. Through the facilities of public television, the Board will televise all regular meetings and any special meetings that it deems appropriate to meet the needs of the community and to better educate citizens about the schools. Following approval of the minutes which will be the official record of the meeting, video recordings will be held for six months for reference, then erased.

• Video recordings of special hearings will be retained for a minimum of three years. Video recordings, as specified, are for the use of staff members, residents of the school district, and representatives of the news media. Audio recordings are not to be considered part of the minutes of any meeting.

• Persons who wish to review any of the above should contact the Superintendent’s office. The school system also will utilize the facilities of cable television in interpreting and promoting its various programs.

Legal References:

Connecticut General Statutes

1-225 Meetings of Government Agencies

Bylaw Adopted: June 14, 2012

Revised: November 2019