Clayton School Board Proposes New Public Comment Rules

By Odette Yousef

Atlanta, GA – Clayton County's school board is proposing changes to when and where they hear public comments. They claim the changes will increase transparency, but some observers worry they'll make it more cumbersome for residents to weigh in on education matters.

Under the proposed revision, public comment would take place in a separate, monthly meeting. Those who wish to comment would have to call the board's secretary in advance and give their names and the topic they'll address. And, when they speak, they'll also have to submit 10 written copies of their comment to the board.

Brad Bryant, a former state liaison to the board, thinks the changes may undermine efforts to restore public trust:

BRYANT: Any change wherein citizens can say you're trying to chill our right to speech, or you're adding more on our plate, creates the perception that they're trying to be less transparent.

Charles White, spokesperson for Clayton County Schools, says residents with those concerns should bring them up:

WHITE: I would invite those individuals who have those feelings to voice them to us when these policies are up for review, and that their thoughts and comments could have an impact on how we would craft the final policy.

Clayton County schools have until September first to meet nine mandates, or else they'll lose accreditation.