Pocono News Section

Hazleton Registration Policy Passes Despite Opposition

Hazleton Registration Policy Passes Despite Opposition - Thursday, March 4, 2010 at 9:10PM EST

Reported by: Joe Holden
Thursday, Mar 4, 2010 @ 10:10pm EST

HAZLE TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY- A controversial student registration policy requiring three proofs of residency passed in a vote of six to two Thursday night despite a large base of opposition.

Two board members who voted for the measure pledged to stand by students and families who may have difficulty with the process. Superintendent Sam Marolo said "If you have an issue, I'll deal with it directly."

The latest version of the registration policy reduces the proofs of residency from four to three and is down from 17 pages in length to six. The original policy, presented in January, was veiled in secrecy. District leaders refused to provide a copy of the document. An objection from a Philadelphia attorney prompted the board to hold off on taking a vote.

Former school board member Elaine Curry blasted the board for what she called a sad day in local public education. "I don't think as an educator you should ever find yourself in a courtroom defending why you denied a kid an opportunity for an education," said Curry.

Others firmly believe the new policy will attract civil rights firms, including the ACLU, which has previously denounced the policy.

Eyewitness News asked a school board secretary for a copy of the revised policy passed tonight. A board secretary never responded to the email sent several days ago.