During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the impact of digital citizenship, screen time, and social media on student health and well-being. The committee highlighted concerns raised in the book \"The Anxious Generation,\" which examines the increasing time students spend on screens. As a result, there is a push to reevaluate existing policies regarding phone usage in classrooms to better address these issues.

While the committee initially focused on social media's effects, there was acknowledgment that artificial intelligence (AI) technology might also warrant attention in future discussions. Last year, the district established a position statement on AI, but the current focus remains on the implications of screen time for student mental health.

In a positive development, the district reported an increase in student social-emotional learning (SEL) scores across nearly all categories since 2022, indicating a recovery from the pandemic's impact. Staff members noted a growing sense of resilience among students, although areas such as growth mindset and self-efficacy were identified as needing improvement.

The meeting also addressed equity and inclusion efforts within the district. Officials emphasized that initiatives are designed to benefit all students, not just specific groups. They acknowledged the need for clearer communication to the community regarding these efforts, ensuring that the focus on equity and inclusion is understood as a commitment to excellence for every student.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment while navigating the challenges posed by technology and ensuring equitable access to resources for all students.