Middletown School Board Tackles Cell Phone Use and Bullying

In a recent meeting of the Middletown School Board, the predominant issue discussed was the implementation of a policy to restrict cell phone usage in schools due to concerns over bullying and the negative impact on student well-being. Community members, including Sarah Weinstein and Mark, contributed to a discussion highlighting the potential dangers of social media, the vulnerability of young students, and the necessity of prioritizing instructional time. The Board is considering the enforcement of a no-phone policy in middle schools and an amendment for high schools, reflecting a shift towards addressing academic, mental health, and social challenges in the district.

The meeting began with a moment of silence to honor the late Carolyn Wolgierski and a former school district employee. The Board then discussed the 2023-24 New Jersey GPA and access test results presented by Dr. Carrian, noting that the district had exceeded the state average in both ELA and math, with a commendably high participation rate. The results’ analysis is intended to further instructional improvement.

The Curriculum and Instructions Committee reviewed curricula for adoption or re-adoption, including a redesign of the report card for grades four and five and the consideration of a weighted GPA on high school transcripts. The Student Services Committee discussed the minimization of contractors and the relocation of the tier three program, while the Facilities Committee updated on ongoing projects such as the High School North Turf and track works and the Link Annex renovation plans.

Financial administration was also on the agenda, with the Board discussing the use of food service account funds for cafeteria renovations and the receipt of a grant for the River Plaza playground project. Discussions ensued about the potential sale of vacant properties, the termination of the lease for Linkof Annex, and the renewal of the agreement for the district’s SLEO. Furthermore, the resignation of the assistant director of facilities was noted, and the renewal of the district’s insurance agreement was discussed.

The proposed cell phone restriction policy was a central topic, with the first read presented and members discussing the negative impacts of smartphone use. The implications of the policy on student security and emergency communication were also debated. Additionally, a new special education attorney’s rejection by the district’s insurance provider was addressed, raising concerns over legal representation for the district.

The need for a cultural shift within the district was discussed, with board members acknowledging incidents of bullying, including students videotaping others in inappropriate settings. Consistent enforcement of the code of conduct and the need for an updated and enforced cell phone policy were emphasized. Public commenters supported the no-phone policy in middle schools and suggested amendments for high schools, emphasizing the importance of learning and face-to-face interaction.

The meeting also recognized retiring staff members and reported on the High School North Turf and track project’s progress, repurposing old turf for other district areas. Additionally, the recommendation of Dr. Christopher Virino as the new principal for New Mammoth Elementary School was announced.

During the public comment period, support was shown for a beloved security guard, Mr. Steve, at Baby Elementary School. Attendees praised his positive influence on students’ sense of safety.

Lastly, the submission of the comprehensive financial report for international review and the district’s continued award recognition for report completeness were addressed. The superintendent lauded the business office staff for their diligent work on the report.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Superintendent:
Jessica Alfone
School Board Officials:
Frank Capone, Jacqueline Tobacco, Leonora Caminiti, Kate Farley, Joseph Fitzgerald, Joan Minnuies, Caterina Skalaski, Gary Tulp, Deborah Wright

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