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I just got off the phone with Jill Wilson, the school system's attorney. She makes a good case that the school system needs to have a consistent facilities use policy. Also, she says that principals are liable for what happens in elementary school buildings until 6 p.m., when the after-school programs end. Isn't it problematic to hold principals accountable for groups that aren't school-sponsored?

I have not yet been able to make contact with someone connected with a group that uses school facilities right after school, but I will keep trying. Or please post here to share your opinion.

I may have misread it, but it seemed like the top part of the policy prohibited non-school groups from using elementary school facilities before 6 p.m. If this is the case, principals would never be in the position of being accountable for groups that aren't school-sponsored.

One part of the policy that looks like it might be too tough is the requirement for background checks for all volunteers for an activity. It's easy to understand the motivation behind such a requirement, but it may be impractical.

Dave, the proposed policy would prohibit non-school groups from using the buildings. But the current policy allows it, thus, according to the attorney, making the principals liable.

Thanks for your comment.

In an update, I spoke with Marilyn Culp of Young Rembrandts of the Piedmont Triad. Her organization has held classes in about 22 schools and would like to be in about 17 schools this fall.

To me, she makes a good point when she says it seems there should be a way to work things out through dialogue, that there should be a solution that would please all parties ...

I hope to talk with the PTA Council about this.

The proposed policy would prohibit non-school groups from using the elementary schools before 6 p.m. .... Just wanted to clarify my previous post ...

I received a mailing from the local Boy Scouts organization indicating that this would negatively impact scouting programs-- and, I believe, Girl Scouts in particular. They were trying to drum up community opposition to the change. Elma, it seems as if there should be a way to work this out. (And best wishes with your new assignment.)

Thank you, Joe.

I agree with you that there should be a way to work this out.

I do hope the District can present a plan that allows for community groups to use public facilities without making the administration liable.

Is it really that difficult to craft a proper and appropriate release that will satisfy all parties?