Public Records

Public agencies in Washington, such as the Kent School District, are subject to the Public Records Act (chapter 42.56 RCW). For detailed information on making a public records request, public records exemptions, and other information required by Washington law, see district Policy 4040. In addition, RCW 28A.320.160 requires the district to annually provide parents information regarding the right to request public records regarding school employee discipline. While records of most investigations of misconduct will be subject to public disclosure upon request, an employee’s identity will be released only when alleged misconduct has been substantiated or when the misconduct results in some form of discipline, even if only a reprimand. In other situations, the Washington Supreme Court has ruled that a school employee’s name and other identifying information must be redacted to protect the employee’s privacy.