The School Committee is empowered to set policy, regulations, and fees regarding public use of school facilities. Such regulations will allow the use of school premises without interference to its regular school program, by individuals and associations for such educational, recreational, social, civic, philanthropic, and like purposes as it deems for the interest of the community.

The use of public-school facilities for school-related purposes will take precedence over all outside use.

Rental fees and guidelines are set by the School Committee and shall be reviewed annually as part of the budgeting process.

The School Committee retains the right to empower the Superintendent or their designee as its agent on matters relating to the day to day implementation of the regulations under this policy and any exemptions or separate contracts governed by this policy. The Superintendent or their designee shall have the final decision in all scheduling, permit issuances, and interpretation of the Policy, unless otherwise directed by the School Committee. School Committee approval shall be required for any exceptions to the fee schedule.

The School Committee retains the right to deny the use of school facilities to any group if it deems the use is detrimental to the interest of the community or interferes with the operation of the schools. Regulations and fee schedules pertaining to the use of school facilities shall insure the security of school property, and the City will be absolved from any liability in case of accident by means of a general liability insurance policy.

Reference: M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 71

Approved: 4/26/22

Approved: 8/27/24