Schools are engaging with students and families via virtual communication tools during the government-ordered closure. A review of privacy measures is recommended. In a previous article, we provided guidance to schools regarding videoconferencing questions for online education. While clearly, the use of virtual classroom technologies does not present a de facto FERPA concern, schools must … [Read more...] about Districts Are Reminded to Take Precautions Regarding Privacy During Era of Virtual Participation and Communication
School Law Bullet
IDEA Procedural and Timeline Relief Recommended
On March 31, 2020, state and local special education administration organizations recommended temporary relief for certain IDEA provisions due to the school closures resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The organizations involved in drafting the recommendations include the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE) and the Counsel of Administrators of Special … [Read more...] about IDEA Procedural and Timeline Relief Recommended
Ensuring Government Transparency Under Right to Know During COVID-19
Government directives to close schools and non-essential businesses, and the current statewide stay-at-home directive limit the ability of public entities to respond to (Right to Know) requests for public records. Here is a summary of legal obligations during this time. Agencies should continue to process and respond to Right to Know request to the extent possible. The agency’s initial … [Read more...] about Ensuring Government Transparency Under Right to Know During COVID-19
Who Invited That Guy? Tips for Effective Virtual Board Meetings
Last month, we provided guidance about certain legal considerations that may inform a board’s decision to conduct virtual board meetings. As with any potential solution, there come occasional problems, and a recent disturbing trend is for certain attendees to effectively crash and commandeer public board meetings. What should you do? Accordingly, here are a few tips to try and limit the … [Read more...] about Who Invited That Guy? Tips for Effective Virtual Board Meetings
Providing Instruction During COVID-19: Videoconferencing Questions for Schools and Students
Schools are doing their best to provide innovative instruction for students at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many have already begun, or are planning to take instruction online, and have had questions regarding a teacher video-conferencing with students. Below is an outline of some of the concerns related to this topic. Should you have any questions or wish to discuss further, please contact … [Read more...] about Providing Instruction During COVID-19: Videoconferencing Questions for Schools and Students
COVID-19’s Impact on Municipal Debt Issuance
The COVID 19 outbreak has caused various government officials including Governor Tom Wolf to issue orders halting some activities and requiring substantial modifications in how we conduct business. What does this mean for our local school districts, counties, cities, townships and other municipal entities? What about debt proceedings in Pennsylvania? Can local government issue debt? Under … [Read more...] about COVID-19’s Impact on Municipal Debt Issuance
