Public Participation

All Board meetings will be open to the public, with the exception of executive sessions. The Board invites community members to attend its meetings and become acquainted with the program and operation of the district. In recognizing the value of public comment on educational issues to school governance and the importance of allowing members of the public to express themselves on school matters of community interest, community members may be invited to share comments, ideas, and opinions with the Board during designated times on the agenda. The Board, therefore, shall provide a period for communication from the public at each regular Board meeting and may afford this opportunity at special Board meetings.

Persons wishing to address the board will sign-in on the public comment sheet provided or submit their name electronically prior to the Board meeting. A request to give public comment in-person or electronically does not guarantee time will be available. Electronic requests must be made on this Google Form and done by 4:00 p.m. prior to the meeting being called to order.

By registering to address the board during public comment, individuals understand and accept that they will be called at the number provided during the Public Comments item of the meeting agenda. If an individual does not answer the call, he/she forfeits their time to speak to the board. It is suggested that community members follow along on the meeting live stream posted to the HSD Communications YouTube channel.

Inquiries from the public during the designated portion of the agenda will not generally be responded to immediately by the Board chair and may be referred to the superintendent for reply at a later date. The Board will not respond to inquiries that are expected to be addressed during another designated portion of the agenda.

Members of the public may submit written comments or materials to the Board at any time at the district office, by mail (305 SW 11th St, Hermiston, OR  97838), or by email to [email protected]. Materials or comments submitted by 4:00 p.m. on the day of the board meeting will be provided to the Board. Written materials or comments submitted may not warrant action by the Board.

A person speaking during the designated portion of the agenda for public comment may offer objective criticism of district operations and programs. According to Board policy KL, any complaint regarding a specific employee of the Hermiston School District must be routed through the superintendent's office.