We believe that it is the responsibility of the school to assist students in the critical examination of the various issues and points of view facing society today. Such investigation and evaluation of controversial issues is deemed essential if the school is to achieve its objective of educating students as thoughtful and discriminating individuals.
To this end, the school provides opportunity for such discussion and critique through the planned academic program, extra-curricular clubs and activities, guest speakers and forums.
In this process it is, however, incumbent upon the school and its staff to insure a balanced and objective presentation of such controversial issues, and to present and review not only the positions of extreme, but those of the moderate point of view as well. It is further expected that all such discussions and presentations will be conducted within the bounds of good judgment and proper decorum, and with full consideration of the rights and sensibilities of
others. Profanity, obscenity, libel, slander, disruption or advocating breaking of the law are not considered legitimate means of implementing the intent of this policy. Those with a past history of such conduct shall not be considered appropriate speakers to school groups.
This policy statement shall apply to guest speakers invited to address any school group. All invitations to outside speakers shall be cleared through, and approved by the school Principal.
In order to ensure fair access to candidates running for public office, candidates will only be able to make political speeches during the school day to students in the North Colonie Schools as long as other candidates running for that office are also invited to speak.
Note: Prior policy, Controversial Issues and Guest Speakers, 6144
Policy Adopted: December 9, 1974
Policy Amended: January 25, 1999
Policy Amended: May 21, 2001