In a recent meeting of the Las Cruces Public Schools Board, several key agenda items were addressed, including the approval of the work session agenda and minutes from a previous special meeting. Both motions passed unanimously, reflecting a collaborative atmosphere among board members.
The board also discussed consent agenda items, notably a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Southwest Family Guidance Center and Las Cruces Public Schools, which was approved without opposition. A question arose regarding the name change of the Las Cruces Home Builders Association, which was clarified to be a \"doing business as\" (DBA) situation, not requiring updates in the current documentation.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a report on a closed executive session held earlier that day, where the board discussed personnel matters and ongoing litigation involving the district. Superintendent Ruiz provided updates on recent events, including a back-to-school kickoff lunch for principals and participation in local community events, emphasizing the district's commitment to supporting its educators and students.
The board also welcomed Brian Colon, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber, who addressed the board regarding a proposed attorney-client engagement agreement related to multi-district litigation against social media companies. Colon explained that the litigation aims to address concerns about the impact of social media algorithms on minors, particularly regarding mental health and addiction. He assured board members that the lawsuit would not infringe on First Amendment rights, focusing instead on the harmful effects of excessive social media use.
Board member Wofford raised concerns about the implications of the lawsuit, questioning the specifics of the claims and the potential risks involved for the district. Legal counsel provided clarity on the engagement agreement, noting that while there are inherent risks in litigation, they are manageable and typical for such legal arrangements.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore the details of the proposed litigation and its alignment with the district's goals for student welfare. The board's discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing contemporary challenges in education, particularly those posed by the digital landscape.