CODE: 3541.35
SECTION: BUSINESS AND NON-INSTRUCTIONAL OPERATIONS
STUDENT TRANSPORTATION: SAFETY AND SECURITY
A. Video/Audio Monitoring on School Vehicles:
In the interest of safety and security, the following procedural guidelines shall be established video and audio monitoring on school vehicles:
1. The cameras will be used to monitor student behavior and/or reviewing driver techniques in handling student behavior problems.
2. The Transportation Supervisor shall be responsible for video/audio camera installation on school vehicles and the safekeeping of all equipment and video tapes.
3. The camera shall be rotated between buses. The placement of the camera shall be kept confidential. However, placement in a specific bus may be made upon request from parents, law enforcement officials, driver trainer, or other appropriate school employees.
4. Extensive monitoring may be conducted for just cause or following a disciplinary report by the driver.
5. Annual notice shall be made to parents regarding the possible presence of video/audio equipment use on school vehicles.
6. Each school vehicle equipped for a video camera shall have a sign clearly indicating that a "Video Camera May Be in Operation."
7. Videotaping is intended to observe and resolve problem situations.
8. Procedure for viewing video tapes shall include:
a. Viewing shall be restricted to members of the West Milford Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools, Transportation Supervisor, Principal, driver, coach, parent/guardian of the student(s) involved or other persons approved by the Superintendent.
b. Viewing shall be permitted only at school-related sites and a log will be maintained by the Transportation Supervisor on those video viewings.
9. A request to view a videotape must be made to the Transportation Supervisor at least three days prior to and not before the Superintendent grants approval.
10. Videotapes of a student and/or driver incident may be used to support disciplinary action. If a videotape is so used, all parties involved in the incident will be notified.
11. The Board is the sole owner of such video. Videotapes will be erased or taped over when:
a. There are no reported problems after approximately five (5) school days, or
b. The problem situation has been resolved.
First Reading: December 12, 2000
Adopted: December 19, 2000