School Board Work Session: 8-5-26

The Norfolk Public Schools Board held a work session on August 5, 2026, focusing primarily on updates to the monitoring calendar, policy revisions, school crisis plans, and technology initiatives. Key procurement-related discussions included the technology update where the board reviewed the current inventory and replacement cycles for student and staff devices, noting a significant past investment of over $4 million in Chromebooks and ongoing phased replacements. The technology department also highlighted efforts to maintain and upgrade infrastructure, cybersecurity, and AI readiness, emphasizing responsible AI use in instruction and digital citizenship. Policy updates addressed employee leave, family and medical leave, and driver's education fee schedules, with some changes recommended for second readings. The board also discussed school crisis plans in compliance with FEMA and state standards, including behavioral threat assessments. Motions were passed to adopt board norms and protocols and to enter a closed session for personnel matters. Future agenda items include comprehensive reports on alternative education, bullying prevention, and school closure staffing plans.