Policy

Purpose

The Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf (ENCSD) Board of Trustees recognizes the importance of conducting Board meetings in a manner that is transparent, orderly, lawful, and accessible.  This policy establishes expectations for the conduct of Board meetings in alignment with applicable federal and state laws, while ensuring accessibility and effective communication for Deaf and hard of hearing students, families, employees, and members of the public.

I. Policy Statement

The Board of Trustees shall conduct its meetings in accordance with applicable North Carolina law, Board of Trustees bylaws, and adopted procedures governing ENCSD.  Board meetings shall be structured to promote effective governance, informed decision making, public participation as required by law, and respect for due process.  All official actions of the Board shall occur in properly noticed meetings and be recorded as required by law.

II. Types of Board Meetings

The Board of Trustees may hold the following types of meetings, as permitted by law:

• Regular meetings
• Special meetings
• Emergency meetings
• Closed sessions

All meetings shall be conducted in compliance with the North Carolina Open Meetings Law and other applicable state requirements, including notice and recordkeeping requirements.

III. Quorum and Voting

A quorum, as defined by applicable law and Board of Trustees bylaws, shall be required for the Board to conduct official business.

Board actions shall be taken by majority vote of the members present and voting, unless a greater vote is required by law.

Board members shall vote in open session except as permitted by law.

IV. Public Participation

The Board of Trustees values appropriate public input and shall provide opportunities for public comment in accordance with Board of Trustees adopted procedures.

Public participation shall be conducted in an orderly manner and may be subject to reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions to ensure the efficient conduct of Board business.

V. Accessibility and Effective Communication

ENCSD shall ensure that Board meetings and related communications are accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing individuals and other persons with disabilities.

This includes, as appropriate:

• Provision of qualified interpreters, captioning, or other auxiliary aids and services
• Use of accessible and plain-language meeting materials
• Accessible meeting locations and virtual participation options when available
• Advance notice of meetings and agendas in accessible formats

Requests for accommodations shall be handled in accordance with applicable law and ENCSD procedures.

VI. Closed Sessions

The Board of Trustess may enter closed session only for purposes permitted by North Carolina law, including but not limited to matters involving personnel, student records, attorney-client privilege, and confidential information.

Closed sessions shall be conducted in accordance with statutory requirements, and no final action shall be taken in closed session unless permitted by law.

Board members shall maintain the confidentiality of information discussed in closed session.

VII. Legal Compliance and Due Process

Board meetings shall be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, including due process requirements.

This policy shall not be interpreted to limit rights or remedies available under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, or other applicable laws.

The Board shall ensure that its meeting practices uphold fairness, transparency, and the integrity of the governance process.

Legal References

• North Carolina General Statutes §§ 143-318.9 through 143-318.18 (Open Meetings Law)
• North Carolina General Statutes § 115C-142 (Governance of the Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf)
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 794

Purpose

The Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf (ENCSD) Board of Trustees recognizes the critical importance of safeguarding confidential information in a fair, lawful, and responsible manner.  This policy establishes expectations for the protection, access, use, and disclosure of confidential information in alignment with applicable federal and state laws, while ensuring accessibility and effective communication for Deaf and hard of hearing, students, families, employees, and other stakeholders.

I. Policy Statement

The Board of Trustees shall establish and support clear standards and procedures to protect confidential information.  Confidential information shall be accessed and used only for legitimate educational or operational purposes and only by individuals with appropriate authorization.  Unauthorized access, use, or disclosure of confidential information is strictly prohibited.  

This policy preserves privacy rights, supports dues process, maintains public trust, and ensures that confidentiality obligations are upheld within ENCSD’s educational environment.

II. Scope and Responsibility

This policy applies to all ENCSD Board members, administrators, employees, contractors, volunteers, interns, and any other individuals or entities who have access to confidential information through their role or relationship with ENCSD.

All individuals with access to confidential information are responsible for understanding and complying with this policy and all related laws and procedures. The obligation to protect confidential information continues after the end of employment or service with ENCSD.

III. Confidential Information Standards

Confidential information shall include, but is not limited to:

• Student education records and personally identifiable information protected under FERPA and IDEA
• Personnel records and employment-related information
• Medical, health, and disability-related information
• Information discussed in closed sessions of the Board of Trustees
• Any other information protected from disclosure by law or Board policy

Confidential information shall not be accessed, used, discussed, or disclosed except as permitted or required by law or Board policy.

IV. Accessibility and Effective Communication 

ENCSD shall ensure that all communications involving confidential information are provided in a manner that is accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, without compromising confidentiality.

This includes, as appropriate:

• Provision of qualified interpreters, captioning, or other auxiliary aids and services
• Use of accessible and plain-language formats
• Ensuring that interpreters and service providers adhere to confidentiality requirements
• Consideration of communication needs identified in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan

V. Use, Disclosure, and Safeguards 

Confidential information shall be disclosed only to individuals with a legitimate educational or professional interest or as otherwise permitted or required by law.  

ENCSD shall implement appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect confidential information, including information stored or transmitted electronically.

Confidential information shall not be shared through unsecured communication platforms or personal devices unless authorized and appropriately protected.

VI. Legal Compliance and Due Process

The handling of confidential information shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws, including due process requirements.

This policy shall not be interpreted to limit rights or remedies available under FERPA, IDEA, ADA, Section 504, Title IX, or other applicable laws.

Board members and employees shall avoid actions that could compromise the integrity, impartiality, or legality of confidentiality protections.

VII. Violations and Reporting

Unauthorized access, use, or disclosure of confidential information may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal, in accordance with applicable OSHR policies, and may result in civil or criminal liability.

Any suspected breach of confidentiality shall be reported promptly to the Superintendent or designee in accordance with ENCSD procedures.

Legal References

• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232g
• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq.
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 794
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.
• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, 20 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq.
• North Carolina General Statutes §§ 115C-319, 115C-402, 132-1.4, 143-318.11
• North Carolina Public Records Law

Purpose

The Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf (ENCSD) Board of Trustees recognizes the critical importance of safeguarding confidential information in a fair, lawful, and responsible manner.  This policy establishes expectations for the protection, access, use, and disclosure of confidential information in alignment with applicable federal and state laws, while ensuring accessibility and effective communication for Deaf and hard of hearing, students, families, employees, and other stakeholders.

I. Policy Statement

The Board of Trustees shall establish and support clear standards and procedures to protect confidential information.  Confidential information shall be accessed and used only for legitimate educational or operational purposes and only by individuals with appropriate authorization.  Unauthorized access, use, or disclosure of confidential information is strictly prohibited.  

This policy preserves privacy rights, supports dues process, maintains public trust, and ensures that confidentiality obligations are upheld within ENCSD’s educational environment.

II. Scope and Responsibility

This policy applies to all ENCSD Board members, administrators, employees, contractors, volunteers, interns, and any other individuals or entities who have access to confidential information through their role or relationship with ENCSD.

All individuals with access to confidential information are responsible for understanding and complying with this policy and all related laws and procedures. The obligation to protect confidential information continues after the end of employment or service with ENCSD.

III. Confidential Information Standards

Confidential information shall include, but is not limited to:

• Student education records and personally identifiable information protected under FERPA and IDEA
• Personnel records and employment-related information
• Medical, health, and disability-related information
• Information discussed in closed sessions of the Board of Trustees
• Any other information protected from disclosure by law or Board policy

Confidential information shall not be accessed, used, discussed, or disclosed except as permitted or required by law or Board policy.

IV. Accessibility and Effective Communication 

ENCSD shall ensure that all communications involving confidential information are provided in a manner that is accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, without compromising confidentiality.

This includes, as appropriate:

• Provision of qualified interpreters, captioning, or other auxiliary aids and services
• Use of accessible and plain-language formats
• Ensuring that interpreters and service providers adhere to confidentiality requirements
• Consideration of communication needs identified in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan

V. Use, Disclosure, and Safeguards 

Confidential information shall be disclosed only to individuals with a legitimate educational or professional interest or as otherwise permitted or required by law.  

ENCSD shall implement appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect confidential information, including information stored or transmitted electronically.

Confidential information shall not be shared through unsecured communication platforms or personal devices unless authorized and appropriately protected.

VI. Legal Compliance and Due Process

The handling of confidential information shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws, including due process requirements.

This policy shall not be interpreted to limit rights or remedies available under FERPA, IDEA, ADA, Section 504, Title IX, or other applicable laws.

Board members and employees shall avoid actions that could compromise the integrity, impartiality, or legality of confidentiality protections.

VII. Violations and Reporting

Unauthorized access, use, or disclosure of confidential information may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal, in accordance with applicable OSHR policies, and may result in civil or criminal liability.

Any suspected breach of confidentiality shall be reported promptly to the Superintendent or designee in accordance with ENCSD procedures.

Legal References

• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232g
• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq.
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 794
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.
• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, 20 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq.
• North Carolina General Statutes §§ 115C-319, 115C-402, 132-1.4, 143-318.11
• North Carolina Public Records Law

Purpose

The Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf (ENCSD) Board of Trustees recognizes the importance of addressing complaints in a fair, orderly, and lawful manner.  This policy clarifies the appropriate role of individual Board members and the Board as a whole in handling complaints, in alignment with applicable federal and state laws, while ensuring accessibility and effective communication for Deaf and hard of hearing stakeholders.

I. Policy Statement

The Board of Trustees shall establish and support clear procedures for receiving and resolving complaints.  Individual Board members shall not investigate, adjudicate, or attempt to resolve complaints independently, but shall instead ensure that complaints are directed to the appropriate administrative channels.  This approach preserves the integrity of the administrative process, protects due process rights, and maintains the proper governance-administration boundary.

II. Role of Individual Board Members

1. Individual Board members shall listen respectfully to complainants but shall not promise specific outcomes or take independent action to resolve complaints.
2. Board members shall refer complainants to the appropriate administrative complaint process or to the Superintendent or designee.
3. Board members shall avoid involvement in fact-finding, investigation, or decision-making related to complaints that may later come before the Board.
4. Board members shall maintain confidentiality and avoid discussion of complaints outside of official Board proceedings, as required by law.

III. Roles of the Board as a Governing Body

1. The Board shall act on complaints only when they are properly brought before the Board through established procedures, such as appeals.
2. The Board’s role is to review the administrative process for compliance with policy and law, not to substitute its judgment for that of administrators on matters delegated to administration.
3. The Board shall ensure that complaint procedures are accessible, clearly communicated, and compliant with applicable laws.

IV. Accessibility and Effective Communication 

ENCSD shall ensure that complaint procedures and communications related to complaints are accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing students, parents, guardians, employees, and members of the public.  

This includes, as appropriate:

• Provision of qualified interpreters, captioning, or other auxiliary aids and services
• Use of accessible and plain-language formats
• Consideration of communication needs identified in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan

VI. Legal Compliance and Due Process 

1. Complaint handling shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws, including due process.
2. This policy shall not be interpreted to limit rights or remedies available under IDEA, ADA, Section 504, Title IX, or other applicable laws.
3. Board members shall avoid actions that could compromise the impartiality of the complaint or appeal process.

Legal References

• North Carolina General Statutes §§ 115C-36, 115C-47
• North Carolina Administrative Procedure Act, as applicable
• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq.
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 794
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.
• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, 20 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq.

Purpose

ENCSD is committed to providing a safe, orderly, and supportive learning and living environment for all students, staff, and visitors.  The purpose of this policy is to establish expectations for school safety, emergency preparedness, and injury and violence prevention across all ENCSD programs, including instructional, residential, and extracurricular settings.

ENCSD shall take reasonable and appropriate measures to prevent and respond to safety risks, emergencies, injuries, and threats to individuals or property.  Safety planning and implementation shall account for the unique communication and access needs of Deaf and hard of hearing students and staff and shall include the Residential Program as an integral part of the school community.

I. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All ENCSD students, including those participating in the Residential Program
• All employees, including instructional, residential, administrative, and support staff
• Volunteers, contractors, and visitors while on ENCSD property or participating in ENCSD-sponsored activities
• All ENCSD facilities, vehicles, programs, and activities, whether conducted on or off campus

II. Definitions

For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:

• Emergency Response Plan: A written plan outlining procedures for prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery from emergencies, including drills and coordination with emergency responders.
• Threat Assessment Team: A multidisciplinary team established to identify, assess, and manage potential threats to school safety in accordance with applicable laws and State Board of Education guidance.

III. Responsibilities

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees shall:

• Adopt policies that promote safe and orderly school environments
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety-related laws and regulations
• Support administrative efforts to maintain effective school safety programs

Superintendent

The Superintendent or designee shall:

• Develop and implement procedures consistent with this policy
• Ensure school safety and emergency response plans are established, reviewed, and updated
• Coordinate with local emergency responders and state agencies as required
• Ensure training is provided to all staff

Principal

The school principal shall:

• Enforce safety rules and procedures
• Support the operation of threat assessment teams
• Ensure emergency drills are conducted as required
• Communicate safety expectations in accessible formats

Employees

All ENCSD employees shall:

• Follow established safety and emergency procedures
• Report safety concerns, threats, or incidents promptly
• Provide appropriate supervision to students, including during residential hours

Students

Students shall:

• Follow safety rules and instructions
• Participate appropriately in safety drills
• Report safety concerns or threats to staff

IV. School Safety Planning and Prevention

ENCSD shall implement comprehensive school safety measures, including but not limited to:

• Development and maintenance of emergency response plans
• Use of threat assessment processes to address potential risks
• Coordination with law enforcement, emergency management, and public health officials
• Appropriate supervision and monitoring of school and residential facilities
• Ongoing evaluation of safety practices and procedures

V. Residential Program Safety

The Residential Program shall be fully integrated into ENCSD’s school safety planning.  Safety measures shall include:

• Emergency response procedures specific to residential facilities
• Training for residential staff on supervision, emergency response, and student safety
• Accessible safety communication during non-instructional hours
• Regular drills and reviews appropriate to the residential setting

VI. Accessibility and Communication

All safety-related plans, drills, training, and communications shall be accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing stakeholders.  ENCSD shall provide reasonable accommodations, including visual alarms, captioned or visual materials, and ASL interpretation when appropriate, to ensure effective communication before, during, and after emergencies.

Legal References

• 29 C.F.R. Part 1904, Recording and Reporting Occupational Injuries and Illnesses
• G.S. 14-208.18, Bomb Threats on School Property
• G.S. 95-129, North Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Act
• G.S. 115C-36; 115C-47; 115C-105.49; 115C-105.51; 115C-105.53; 115C-105.54; 115C-166; 115C-167; 115C-288; 115C-289.1; 115C-307; 115C-390.3; 115C-391.1; 115C-521; 115C-524; 115C-525
• 13 NCAC 7A .0301
• 16 NCAC 6E .0107
• North Carolina State Board of Education Policy SCFC-005, School Crisis and Emergency Response Planning

This policy shall be reviewed and updated periodically to ensure continued compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and best practices for serving deaf and hard of hearing students.

Purpose

ENCSD is committed to providing a safe, orderly, and supportive learning and living environment for all students, staff, and visitors.  The purpose of this policy is to establish expectations for school safety, emergency preparedness, and injury and violence prevention across all ENCSD programs, including instructional, residential, and extracurricular settings.

ENCSD shall take reasonable and appropriate measures to prevent and respond to safety risks, emergencies, injuries, and threats to individuals or property.  Safety planning and implementation shall account for the unique communication and access needs of Deaf and hard of hearing students and staff and shall include the Residential Program as an integral part of the school community.

I. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All ENCSD students, including those participating in the Residential Program
• All employees, including instructional, residential, administrative, and support staff
• Volunteers, contractors, and visitors while on ENCSD property or participating in ENCSD-sponsored activities
• All ENCSD facilities, vehicles, programs, and activities, whether conducted on or off campus

II. Definitions

For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:

• Emergency Response Plan: A written plan outlining procedures for prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery from emergencies, including drills and coordination with emergency responders.
• Threat Assessment Team: A multidisciplinary team established to identify, assess, and manage potential threats to school safety in accordance with applicable laws and State Board of Education guidance.

III. Responsibilities

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees shall:

• Adopt policies that promote safe and orderly school environments
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety-related laws and regulations
• Support administrative efforts to maintain effective school safety programs

Superintendent

The Superintendent or designee shall:

• Develop and implement procedures consistent with this policy
• Ensure school safety and emergency response plans are established, reviewed, and updated
• Coordinate with local emergency responders and state agencies as required
• Ensure training is provided to all staff

Principal

The school principal shall:

• Enforce safety rules and procedures
• Support the operation of threat assessment teams
• Ensure emergency drills are conducted as required
• Communicate safety expectations in accessible formats

Employees

All ENCSD employees shall:

• Follow established safety and emergency procedures
• Report safety concerns, threats, or incidents promptly
• Provide appropriate supervision to students, including during residential hours

Students

Students shall:

• Follow safety rules and instructions
• Participate appropriately in safety drills
• Report safety concerns or threats to staff

IV. School Safety Planning and Prevention

ENCSD shall implement comprehensive school safety measures, including but not limited to:

• Development and maintenance of emergency response plans
• Use of threat assessment processes to address potential risks
• Coordination with law enforcement, emergency management, and public health officials
• Appropriate supervision and monitoring of school and residential facilities
• Ongoing evaluation of safety practices and procedures

V. Residential Program Safety

The Residential Program shall be fully integrated into ENCSD’s school safety planning.  Safety measures shall include:

• Emergency response procedures specific to residential facilities
• Training for residential staff on supervision, emergency response, and student safety
• Accessible safety communication during non-instructional hours
• Regular drills and reviews appropriate to the residential setting

VI. Accessibility and Communication

All safety-related plans, drills, training, and communications shall be accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing stakeholders.  ENCSD shall provide reasonable accommodations, including visual alarms, captioned or visual materials, and ASL interpretation when appropriate, to ensure effective communication before, during, and after emergencies.

Legal References

• 29 C.F.R. Part 1904, Recording and Reporting Occupational Injuries and Illnesses
• G.S. 14-208.18, Bomb Threats on School Property
• G.S. 95-129, North Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Act
• G.S. 115C-36; 115C-47; 115C-105.49; 115C-105.51; 115C-105.53; 115C-105.54; 115C-166; 115C-167; 115C-288; 115C-289.1; 115C-307; 115C-390.3; 115C-391.1; 115C-521; 115C-524; 115C-525
• 13 NCAC 7A .0301
• 16 NCAC 6E .0107
• North Carolina State Board of Education Policy SCFC-005, School Crisis and Emergency Response Planning

This policy shall be reviewed and updated periodically to ensure continued compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and best practices for serving deaf and hard of hearing students.

Purpose

ENCSD is committed to providing a safe, orderly, and supportive learning and living environment for all students, staff, and visitors.  The purpose of this policy is to establish expectations for school safety, emergency preparedness, and injury and violence prevention across all ENCSD programs, including instructional, residential, and extracurricular settings.

ENCSD shall take reasonable and appropriate measures to prevent and respond to safety risks, emergencies, injuries, and threats to individuals or property.  Safety planning and implementation shall account for the unique communication and access needs of Deaf and hard of hearing students and staff and shall include the Residential Program as an integral part of the school community.

I. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All ENCSD students, including those participating in the Residential Program
• All employees, including instructional, residential, administrative, and support staff
• Volunteers, contractors, and visitors while on ENCSD property or participating in ENCSD-sponsored activities
• All ENCSD facilities, vehicles, programs, and activities, whether conducted on or off campus

II. Definitions

For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:

• Emergency Response Plan: A written plan outlining procedures for prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery from emergencies, including drills and coordination with emergency responders.
• Threat Assessment Team: A multidisciplinary team established to identify, assess, and manage potential threats to school safety in accordance with applicable laws and State Board of Education guidance.

III. Responsibilities

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees shall:

• Adopt policies that promote safe and orderly school environments
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety-related laws and regulations
• Support administrative efforts to maintain effective school safety programs

Superintendent

The Superintendent or designee shall:

• Develop and implement procedures consistent with this policy
• Ensure school safety and emergency response plans are established, reviewed, and updated
• Coordinate with local emergency responders and state agencies as required
• Ensure training is provided to all staff

Principal

The school principal shall:

• Enforce safety rules and procedures
• Support the operation of threat assessment teams
• Ensure emergency drills are conducted as required
• Communicate safety expectations in accessible formats

Employees

All ENCSD employees shall:

• Follow established safety and emergency procedures
• Report safety concerns, threats, or incidents promptly
• Provide appropriate supervision to students, including during residential hours

Students

Students shall:

• Follow safety rules and instructions
• Participate appropriately in safety drills
• Report safety concerns or threats to staff

IV. School Safety Planning and Prevention

ENCSD shall implement comprehensive school safety measures, including but not limited to:

• Development and maintenance of emergency response plans
• Use of threat assessment processes to address potential risks
• Coordination with law enforcement, emergency management, and public health officials
• Appropriate supervision and monitoring of school and residential facilities
• Ongoing evaluation of safety practices and procedures

V. Residential Program Safety

The Residential Program shall be fully integrated into ENCSD’s school safety planning.  Safety measures shall include:

• Emergency response procedures specific to residential facilities
• Training for residential staff on supervision, emergency response, and student safety
• Accessible safety communication during non-instructional hours
• Regular drills and reviews appropriate to the residential setting

VI. Accessibility and Communication

All safety-related plans, drills, training, and communications shall be accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing stakeholders.  ENCSD shall provide reasonable accommodations, including visual alarms, captioned or visual materials, and ASL interpretation when appropriate, to ensure effective communication before, during, and after emergencies.

Legal References

• 29 C.F.R. Part 1904, Recording and Reporting Occupational Injuries and Illnesses
• G.S. 14-208.18, Bomb Threats on School Property
• G.S. 95-129, North Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Act
• G.S. 115C-36; 115C-47; 115C-105.49; 115C-105.51; 115C-105.53; 115C-105.54; 115C-166; 115C-167; 115C-288; 115C-289.1; 115C-307; 115C-390.3; 115C-391.1; 115C-521; 115C-524; 115C-525
• 13 NCAC 7A .0301
• 16 NCAC 6E .0107
• North Carolina State Board of Education Policy SCFC-005, School Crisis and Emergency Response Planning

This policy shall be reviewed and updated periodically to ensure continued compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and best practices for serving deaf and hard of hearing students.

I. Purpose

ENCSD is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment free from sex-based discrimination—including sexual harassment and violence—in all school programs and activities. This policy outlines prohibited behaviors and the procedures for reporting and responding to Title IX complaints in compliance with:

• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq.)
• 34 C.F.R. Part 106
• NCDPI Title IX regulatory guidance

ENCSD will respond promptly to all known or suspected instances of sexual harassment or discrimination.

II. Definitions

• Complainant: An individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute Title IX Sexual Harassment.
• Respondent: The individual reported to be the perpetrator of such conduct.
• Title IX Sexual Harassment includes:
  1. Quid pro quo harassment: conditioning educational benefits on sexual acts.
  2. Hostile environment: unwelcome conduct, based on sex, so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it limits participation in school programs or employment. 
  3. VAWA Offenses: sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, and stalking.
• Supportive Measures: Non-disciplinary, non-punitive assistance offered to Complainants or Respondents, such as counseling, schedule changes, or no-contact orders.
• Formal Complaint: A document filed by a Complainant or Title IX Coordinator initiating a grievance process.
• Actual Knowledge: When any employee or school official learns of possible Title IX harassment.

III. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All ENCSD programs and activities, on or off campus, including boarding.
• All students, staff, volunteers, and third parties.
• All employees—both licensed and classified—are mandatory reporters.

IV. Prohibited Conduct

ENCSD prohibits:

1. Quid pro quo harassment by school employees.
2. Creation of a hostile environment through persistent, unwelcome, sex-based conduct.
3. VAWA offenses: sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking.
4. Retaliation against anyone exercising rights or participating in investigations.

V. Reporting Requirements

• Who must report: All employees and school officials with actual knowledge.
• How to report:
  • Contact the Title IX Coordinator verbally or in writing.
  • Use school email, phone, or designated reporting form.
• Initial actions:
  • Title IX Coordinator offers Supportive Measures within 3 school days of notice.
  • If a Formal Complaint is filed, initiate a Title IX formal grievance process.
• No confidentiality guarantee— Equity and safety require disclosure to appropriate staff.

VI. Grievance Process Overview

Following a Formal Complaint, ENCSD will:

1. Determine if the complaint falls under Title IX criteria.
2. Provide Written Notice to both parties.
3. Offer opportunity for informal resolution, if appropriate and chosen by both parties.
4. Conduct a prompt, impartial investigation by trained personnel.
5. Issue a written determination, based on a preponderance of evidence.
6. Inform parties of appeals rights and process limitations.

This process follows NCDPI’s Title IX procedural guidance.

VII. Supportive Measures

Available to both Complainants and Respondents, such as:

• Class or housing reassignment
• No-contact directives
• Counseling referrals
• Academic or workplace adjustments

These are offered regardless of whether the Formal Complaint proceeds.

VIII. Retaliation

ENCSD strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports or participates in a Title IX process. Reporting retaliation should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator or HR.

IX. Training & Notice

• Staff receive annual training on definitions, policy, and reporting obligations.
• Title IX Coordinators and investigators are trained annually on investigative procedures. 
• Policy, Coordinators’ contact info, and process details are posted on ENCSD’s website and staff/student handbooks.

X. Recordkeeping

• Maintain all documentation—reports, communications, investigation records, remedies—for at least 7 years as required by federal regulation. 

XI. Confidentiality

ENCSD will protect privacy to the best extent possible, sharing information only with those needing to know to manage the complaint and provide remedies.

Legal References

• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. § 1681)
• 34 C.F.R. Part 106
• Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
• Title VII Civil Rights Act
• NACPS Stds. for Non-Discrimination core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.comocrcas.ed.gov+1ed.gov+1ncpschools.net
• NCDPI Title IX Guidance
• DASH: Davis v. Monroe County (student-on-student liability) ednc.org+2dpi.nc.gov+2southernequality.org+2
• ENCSD Policies: 1710/4020/7230, 7300, 7310, 7340, 7510

XIV. Annual Acknowledgement

All staff must review this policy annually and sign an acknowledgment. Records of compliance are kept in HR records.

I. Purpose

ENCSD is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment free from sex-based discrimination—including sexual harassment and violence—in all school programs and activities. This policy outlines prohibited behaviors and the procedures for reporting and responding to Title IX complaints in compliance with:

• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq.)
• 34 C.F.R. Part 106
• NCDPI Title IX regulatory guidance

ENCSD will respond promptly to all known or suspected instances of sexual harassment or discrimination.

II. Definitions

• Complainant: An individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute Title IX Sexual Harassment.
• Respondent: The individual reported to be the perpetrator of such conduct.
• Title IX Sexual Harassment includes:
  1. Quid pro quo harassment: conditioning educational benefits on sexual acts.
  2. Hostile environment: unwelcome conduct, based on sex, so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it limits participation in school programs or employment. 
  3. VAWA Offenses: sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, and stalking.
• Supportive Measures: Non-disciplinary, non-punitive assistance offered to Complainants or Respondents, such as counseling, schedule changes, or no-contact orders.
• Formal Complaint: A document filed by a Complainant or Title IX Coordinator initiating a grievance process.
• Actual Knowledge: When any employee or school official learns of possible Title IX harassment.

III. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All ENCSD programs and activities, on or off campus, including boarding.
• All students, staff, volunteers, and third parties.
• All employees—both licensed and classified—are mandatory reporters.

IV. Prohibited Conduct

ENCSD prohibits:

1. Quid pro quo harassment by school employees.
2. Creation of a hostile environment through persistent, unwelcome, sex-based conduct.
3. VAWA offenses: sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking.
4. Retaliation against anyone exercising rights or participating in investigations.

V. Reporting Requirements

• Who must report: All employees and school officials with actual knowledge.
• How to report:
  • Contact the Title IX Coordinator verbally or in writing.
  • Use school email, phone, or designated reporting form.
• Initial actions:
  • Title IX Coordinator offers Supportive Measures within 3 school days of notice.
  • If a Formal Complaint is filed, initiate a Title IX formal grievance process.
• No confidentiality guarantee— Equity and safety require disclosure to appropriate staff.

VI. Grievance Process Overview

Following a Formal Complaint, ENCSD will:

1. Determine if the complaint falls under Title IX criteria.
2. Provide Written Notice to both parties.
3. Offer opportunity for informal resolution, if appropriate and chosen by both parties.
4. Conduct a prompt, impartial investigation by trained personnel.
5. Issue a written determination, based on a preponderance of evidence.
6. Inform parties of appeals rights and process limitations.

This process follows NCDPI’s Title IX procedural guidance.

VII. Supportive Measures

Available to both Complainants and Respondents, such as:

• Class or housing reassignment
• No-contact directives
• Counseling referrals
• Academic or workplace adjustments

These are offered regardless of whether the Formal Complaint proceeds.

VIII. Retaliation

ENCSD strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports or participates in a Title IX process. Reporting retaliation should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator or HR.

IX. Training & Notice

• Staff receive annual training on definitions, policy, and reporting obligations.
• Title IX Coordinators and investigators are trained annually on investigative procedures. 
• Policy, Coordinators’ contact info, and process details are posted on ENCSD’s website and staff/student handbooks.

X. Recordkeeping

• Maintain all documentation—reports, communications, investigation records, remedies—for at least 7 years as required by federal regulation. 

XI. Confidentiality

ENCSD will protect privacy to the best extent possible, sharing information only with those needing to know to manage the complaint and provide remedies.

Legal References

• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. § 1681)
• 34 C.F.R. Part 106
• Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
• Title VII Civil Rights Act
• NACPS Stds. for Non-Discrimination core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.comocrcas.ed.gov+1ed.gov+1ncpschools.net
• NCDPI Title IX Guidance
• DASH: Davis v. Monroe County (student-on-student liability) ednc.org+2dpi.nc.gov+2southernequality.org+2
• ENCSD Policies: 1710/4020/7230, 7300, 7310, 7340, 7510

XIV. Annual Acknowledgement

All staff must review this policy annually and sign an acknowledgment. Records of compliance are kept in HR records.

I. Purpose

ENCSD is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment free from sex-based discrimination—including sexual harassment and violence—in all school programs and activities. This policy outlines prohibited behaviors and the procedures for reporting and responding to Title IX complaints in compliance with:

• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq.)
• 34 C.F.R. Part 106
• NCDPI Title IX regulatory guidance

ENCSD will respond promptly to all known or suspected instances of sexual harassment or discrimination.

II. Definitions

• Complainant: An individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute Title IX Sexual Harassment.
• Respondent: The individual reported to be the perpetrator of such conduct.
• Title IX Sexual Harassment includes:
  1. Quid pro quo harassment: conditioning educational benefits on sexual acts.
  2. Hostile environment: unwelcome conduct, based on sex, so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it limits participation in school programs or employment. 
  3. VAWA Offenses: sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, and stalking.
• Supportive Measures: Non-disciplinary, non-punitive assistance offered to Complainants or Respondents, such as counseling, schedule changes, or no-contact orders.
• Formal Complaint: A document filed by a Complainant or Title IX Coordinator initiating a grievance process.
• Actual Knowledge: When any employee or school official learns of possible Title IX harassment.

III. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All ENCSD programs and activities, on or off campus, including boarding.
• All students, staff, volunteers, and third parties.
• All employees—both licensed and classified—are mandatory reporters.

IV. Prohibited Conduct

ENCSD prohibits:

1. Quid pro quo harassment by school employees.
2. Creation of a hostile environment through persistent, unwelcome, sex-based conduct.
3. VAWA offenses: sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking.
4. Retaliation against anyone exercising rights or participating in investigations.

V. Reporting Requirements

• Who must report: All employees and school officials with actual knowledge.
• How to report:
  • Contact the Title IX Coordinator verbally or in writing.
  • Use school email, phone, or designated reporting form.
• Initial actions:
  • Title IX Coordinator offers Supportive Measures within 3 school days of notice.
  • If a Formal Complaint is filed, initiate a Title IX formal grievance process.
• No confidentiality guarantee— Equity and safety require disclosure to appropriate staff.

VI. Grievance Process Overview

Following a Formal Complaint, ENCSD will:

1. Determine if the complaint falls under Title IX criteria.
2. Provide Written Notice to both parties.
3. Offer opportunity for informal resolution, if appropriate and chosen by both parties.
4. Conduct a prompt, impartial investigation by trained personnel.
5. Issue a written determination, based on a preponderance of evidence.
6. Inform parties of appeals rights and process limitations.

This process follows NCDPI’s Title IX procedural guidance.

VII. Supportive Measures

Available to both Complainants and Respondents, such as:

• Class or housing reassignment
• No-contact directives
• Counseling referrals
• Academic or workplace adjustments

These are offered regardless of whether the Formal Complaint proceeds.

VIII. Retaliation

ENCSD strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports or participates in a Title IX process. Reporting retaliation should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator or HR.

IX. Training & Notice

• Staff receive annual training on definitions, policy, and reporting obligations.
• Title IX Coordinators and investigators are trained annually on investigative procedures. 
• Policy, Coordinators’ contact info, and process details are posted on ENCSD’s website and staff/student handbooks.

X. Recordkeeping

• Maintain all documentation—reports, communications, investigation records, remedies—for at least 7 years as required by federal regulation. 

XI. Confidentiality

ENCSD will protect privacy to the best extent possible, sharing information only with those needing to know to manage the complaint and provide remedies.

Legal References

• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. § 1681)
• 34 C.F.R. Part 106
• Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
• Title VII Civil Rights Act
• NACPS Stds. for Non-Discrimination core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.comocrcas.ed.gov+1ed.gov+1ncpschools.net
• NCDPI Title IX Guidance
• DASH: Davis v. Monroe County (student-on-student liability) ednc.org+2dpi.nc.gov+2southernequality.org+2
• ENCSD Policies: 1710/4020/7230, 7300, 7310, 7340, 7510

XIV. Annual Acknowledgement

All staff must review this policy annually and sign an acknowledgment. Records of compliance are kept in HR records.