We ask that the Bellingham School Board:

1.     Video record and livestream all regular board meetings

2.     Publish video recordings online

3.     Include captions and transcripts whenever possible

4.     Keep video recordings publicly accessible in an online archive

The new district office building, where meetings are held, has the technology to support this. Requiring people to attend meetings in person creates barriers for many members of our community, including those with mobility or transportation limitations, people with visual or hearing impairments, single parents, and those who work evening or night shifts. Public access should not depend on someone’s schedule, physical ability, or transportation options.

Many Washington school districts, including districts both smaller and larger than Bellingham, already video livestream and publicly archive board meetings online, including:

·      Granite Falls School District

·      Clover Park School District

·      Wenatchee School District

·      Tumwater School District

·      Issaquah School District

·      Seattle Public Schools

·      Kent School District

·      Lake Washington School District

Providing livestreamed and archived video recordings will modernize accessibility and increase community engagement.  This will allow more families and community members to stay informed about decisions affecting our public school system.