5.5.2026 School Board Policy Committee

The City of Portsmouth School Board Policy Committee met on May 5, 2026, to discuss revisions to policies related to the use of body-worn cameras by School Resource Officers (SROs) and associated memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the police department and the school district. The committee reviewed the purpose, legal considerations, and operational protocols of body cameras, including data retention, privacy concerns, and compliance with state law. They emphasized the importance of clear communication with families about recording policies and planned to finalize the policy for inclusion in the school handbook before the next school year. Additionally, the committee reviewed other policies related to transportation safety, surveillance, and fundraising procedures, noting the need for updates and alignment with current practices and laws. Action items included drafting the revised body camera policy for board approval in June and coordinating with legal and administrative staff to ensure policy clarity and compliance.