student-staff relations policy

[Erin Tatge]

Hi, I was looking at the proposed changes to the student-staff relations policy in the school board meeting packet. While of course we all want our students (and staff) to be safe and respected, and clear guidelines are one of the ways to help make that happen, I wonder about the practicality of a policy this specific in a community this size.

Reading through it, I can easily think of a dozen or more every-day innocent scenarios that would potentially violate this new policy. The first thing that came to mind was how many early elementary students I see at after-school pickup, joyfully exchanging innocent "I love you!" and hugs with their teachers and other school staff. But extending into the community, our students have school staff as neighbors, family friends, members of the same groups or religious communities... the list goes on. 

One of the things I really like in the LAPS strategic plan is the goal for every student to have an adult at school that they feel like is "their" person, and I'm not sure how that meshes with the policy of "all staff are expected to maintain clear professional boundaries with students at all times." I do not pretend to have good solutions to how to deal with the nuance of these situations, and I do not envy those of you who have to decide. I simply want to raise this flag, because one of the great things about Los Alamos and our schools is the care and bonds that are formed between the people, and I'd hate to see that damaged. 

Thanks,

Erin Tatge

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Erin Tatge

she/her