The potential exclusion of homeschooled students from extracurricular activities was met with significant concern and debate. Many attendees, including parents and former students, expressed their opposition during the public comment section. One parent highlighted the importance of sports for her homeschooled son’s social development and the life skills learned through participation. Another speaker questioned the lack of data supporting the proposed policy, urging the committee to maintain transparency and inclusivity.

A representative from the Special Education Parent Advisory Council highlighted the challenges faced by families with disabled children, emphasizing the need for communication and the importance of extending inclusive practices to all students, including those who are homeschooled. A letter signed by over twenty individuals was read, expressing deep concern about the sudden policy change and calling for a delay in voting to gather further input from affected families.

The committee engaged in discussions on the implications of the proposed policy amendment, which would limit extracurricular participation to students enrolled in the Frontier Regional School and Union 38 school districts. There was an attempt to amend the final paragraph of the policy to strike specific references to interscholastic athletics and student government, sparking debate over whether such changes would inadvertently exclude homeschooled students from participation entirely.

Concerns were also raised about the legal and financial implications of including homeschooled students in district activities, with discussions touching on the standards homeschooled students must meet compared to their enrolled peers. The committee members deliberated on the complexities of balancing fairness and inclusivity, while also considering the school’s mission and the broader implications for public education.

The dialogue revealed strong community interest in the matter, with numerous speakers emphasizing the importance of supporting all students, including those who are homeschooled, and the benefits of their inclusion in district activities. The committee ultimately decided to refer the policy back to the policy subcommittee for further review.

In addition to the homeschooling policy debate, the meeting also featured proposals for international student trips. Kevin Murphy, a computer science teacher, presented a plan for a trip to Switzerland, Italy, and France in 2026, with an estimated cost of $4,300. The trip was well-received, with assurances that homeschooled students could participate. Another proposal for a student exchange program with a partner school in Rodez, France, was also approved. This program aims to immerse students in French culture, with a reciprocal visit from French students planned for October 2025.