The meeting also highlighted an upcoming event on August 27th aimed at educating parents and educators on managing children’s screen time. Aaron Walsh from Spark and Stitch will lead the initiative, addressing the impact of screen time on brain development. The event, funded by a public health grant, will include a community meal and a presentation, with the YMCA providing childcare. This program reflects a growing interest in tackling digital challenges faced by students and educators alike.

Attention turned to recent contract negotiations for bus drivers, concluding with a 4% wage increase in the first year and 3% in the second. A third pay step was introduced to meet union requests, alongside a minimum health insurance payout of $6,400. Additionally, incentives were offered for obtaining bus certifications, increasing compensation by one dollar an hour.

The board reviewed updates to various handbooks for the upcoming school year. Adjustments to the faculty handbook involved clarifying language and guidelines, while discussions about the inclusion of core values sparked debate on effective communication methods. The middle and high school handbooks saw changes in attendance and parking expectations, with a notable focus on the dress code. Previously revised, the dress code saw fewer violations, signaling positive reception among students. The board discussed off-campus lunch policies, noting restricted access for younger grades and the implications of such policies.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on off-campus lunch privileges for students, particularly those in sixth to tenth grades. The updated practice allows students to leave campus for lunch with approved organizations, requiring parental permission and a completed school form. The designated time for these opportunities is limited to Wednesdays, with high school students attending advisory periods before departure. Concerns were raised about the criteria for approving organizations, particularly church groups, highlighting the need for a balance between student freedom and oversight.

A survey on cell phone use revealed mixed responses, primarily from high school students, with a desire for access balanced against classroom policy respect. Educators expressed concerns about distractions, particularly in middle schools, advocating for consistent policy enforcement across the district.

The board addressed the consent agenda, reviewing the July 2024 expenditure and revenue report, which remained incomplete due to ongoing fiscal activities. They also approved a new contract for paraprofessionals, featuring wage increases and a $1,000 match for benefits. Language clarifications within the contract were discussed, particularly in relation to paid leave policies.

Concluding the meeting, personnel matters were discussed, including the leave of absence for an English teacher. Acknowledgment of staff contributions was expressed, particularly for a retiring bus driver.