The new phone policy, designed to limit the use of cell phones and other electronic devices in schools, was a significant topic of conversation. The policy requires that phones, watches, and earbuds be stored away from the start of the school day until its conclusion, with designated storage areas in classrooms or offices. The underlying rationale is to enhance students’ mental health and engagement by reducing distractions and discouraging behaviors like cyberbullying. Staff members expressed concerns about the practical aspects of enforcing this policy, especially in larger schools with more students. They preferred locked boxes in classrooms for device storage over alternatives like pouches, citing potential issues with breakage and manipulation.

There was considerable discussion about the cultural shift required to implement this policy successfully. It was noted that the absence of phones could foster better engagement and interpersonal interactions among students and staff. Staff were committed to enforcing the policy consistently and communicating expectations to both students and families. Concerns were raised about emergencies, with arguments suggesting that phones could complicate response efforts during crises. Safety experts supported this view, noting that the chaotic influx of calls could hinder emergency communication.

The board also discussed the importance of clear communication with families, emphasizing that students should leave devices at home whenever possible. Parents would be involved in instances of non-compliance, with the policy outlining consequences such as device confiscation. The board recognized the necessity of building relationships with students while upholding the policy and discussed educational programs to inform students about the negative implications of excessive phone use. Exceptions would be made for students with documented medical needs or specific educational plans.

The meeting also addressed public concerns over library content, specifically the media policy 606.5, which had faced criticism for allegedly obscuring progressive agendas. Katherine Hobbs, a parent, cited instances of inappropriate content in school libraries and called for a reevaluation of the policy to ensure transparency and accountability. The board discussed the appointment of a review committee for library materials, emphasizing the need for a structured and transparent process.

The committee, composed of various stakeholders, would be appointed annually by the superintendent or a designate. This approach raised concerns about potential transparency issues in the appointment process, prompting suggestions for clearer parameters or minimum membership thresholds. The superintendent reassured board members that the committee would be adequately composed to address challenges, particularly given the sensitivity surrounding library materials. The policy also aimed to inform parents about existing processes for restricting their children’s access to certain library content.

A significant part of the meeting focused on the district’s preliminary budget for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting $154 million in expenditures, including salaries, benefits, and services. Adjustments in the budget, initially projected at $5.4 million but revised down to approximately $4.3 million, were attributed to changes in salary and benefits across various positions. Discussions delved into specific expenditure areas, such as utilities and transportation services, and addressed a $2 million difference in the budget presentation. The board clarified that this amount was balanced using revenue and fund balance.

The board also addressed legislative updates, including changes to the Teachers Retirement Association and proposed modifications to data requests and directory information. Superintendent Dr. Michael Funk provided insights into ongoing legislative discussions affecting the district’s financial planning, including a potential special session to address unfinished matters. The board discussed the impact of these updates on the district, including a decrease in compensatory education revenue and the implications of new paid family medical leave payroll tax legislation.

In addition to these topics, the board approved a new policy on internet and technology use and safety, emphasizing acceptable use guidelines and filtering systems. The policy revision aimed to provide clarity on accessing the school district’s computer system and using the internet safely. The board also approved policy 516 concerning student medication and telehealth services, aligning with recent legislative mandates for mental health therapy.