OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - The Oklahoma City school district's top official says open participation will continue during school board meetings despite last week's comments from the board's leader, who said she was considering eliminating public comment.

Acting Superintendent Aurora Lora tells The Oklahoman (http://bit.ly/28YYcCH ) that board member and public comments will be allowed at school board meetings "indefinitely."

Last week, board chairwoman Lynne Hardin said she was considering eliminating public and board member comment after a recent string of contentious exchanges and outbursts. She said she planned to meet with other board members next month to discuss options.

News of Hardin's consideration was criticized by parents and others who attend school board meetings.

The board's next meeting is scheduled for Monday.