The most pressing topic of the meeting was the proposal for a comprehensive cell phone policy, driven by state legislation and the district’s Pony plan, which prioritizes student emotional and mental health. The board explored the implications of implementing a policy that would restrict cell phone use during school hours, with the intent to foster a more focused and engaging learning environment. The discussion included insights from Kim Whitman, a proponent of the Phone Free Schools movement. Whitman presented statistics, such as one-third of teens being exposed to pornography at school and a significant percentage admitting to using phones for cheating.

The presentation highlighted the pervasive nature of digital distractions, with 65% of students acknowledging that phones were a major source of distraction and 72% of high school teachers identifying it as a issue. Whitman cited the 2017 Brain Drain study, which demonstrated that even the mere presence of a phone can reduce cognitive capacity. She argued that removing phones from classrooms could enhance academic performance and mental health, referencing Jonathan Haidt’s book “The Anxious Generation” which connects rising mental health issues to increased screen time.

The discussion on cell phone policy extended to strategies for enforcement and the potential challenges posed by student ingenuity in circumventing rules. The board members considered various storage solutions, such as neoprene pouches and lockers, to ensure phones remain inaccessible during school hours. The conversation also touched on the need for administrative support to aid teachers in enforcing the policy and the importance of involving students in the dialogue to foster buy-in and compliance.

Another focus of the meeting was the success of the Vessel program, which supports literacy development among students. Originating from staff inquiries about needed assistance, the program has expanded since its inception in 2018, growing from a handful of volunteers to 54, now operating in six schools, including Spanish immersion classes. The program adheres to the science of reading, and plans to extend support into math literacy were mentioned. Volunteers expressed their dedication to the program, emphasizing the importance of early literacy and its impact on student confidence and emotional well-being.

The board also reviewed curriculum materials for elementary literacy programs through a newly formed literacy committee. Superintendent Dr. Michael Funk announced a community review scheduled for January, inviting public input on proposed curricula. An initiative to establish a student advisory group was also introduced, aiming to gather feedback from high school students, complementing the existing community advisory group.

In addition to the focus on literacy and cell phone policies, the board addressed the shifting landscape of student enrollment in college-level courses. A notable trend was the increase in Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO), with students opting for college courses outside the high school setting. To counter this trend and retain students within the district, the board discussed expanding concurrent enrollment programs that offer college credits without the high-stakes exams associated with Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

The board evaluated the benefits of concurrent enrollment, emphasizing the advantages of students earning college credits while benefiting from the expertise of their high school teachers. Partnerships with institutions like Mano State University were highlighted, offering staff opportunities to qualify for teaching these courses. This shift aims to provide students with a seamless transition to college-level work within their familiar high school environment, thereby enhancing the educational experience and addressing concerns regarding the declining interest in traditional AP courses.