JEFFERSON TWP — A Knoch High School student took her concerns to the school board regarding a proposed district policy that she said could marginalize LGBTQ students.

The student, who the Eagle has chosen not to name because she is a minor, told the board at its Wednesday meeting the “Classroom displays and decorations” policy would prohibit posting material in classrooms that is affiliated with any social or political movements.

She said it would prevent teachers and administrators from displaying support for the LGBTQ+ community in classrooms.

“The evident removal of outward support for LGBTQ members sends a message of immaturity, disdain and refusal to acknowledge the LGBTQ presence at Knoch,” she told the school board members.

David Foley, superintendent, said Thursday the issue arose after stickers were removed in a high school classroom that indicated the room was a safe space for all students.

Foley said the prospective policy is not currently before the school board for a vote and has become an “administrative regulation,” which means it will go through an administrative process to address issues within the policy.

“We are trying to maintain a focus on curriculum and trying our best to make sure that every classroom in our district is a safe space where students are free of bullying, and every student feels comfortable to engage in learning,” Foley said. “Indicating certain rooms are safe and others that didn’t have a sticker are not safe or welcoming is not the way we want to proceed in our district.”

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