During a recent government meeting, public participation highlighted concerns regarding the potential health effects of technology in schools, particularly Wi-Fi. Participants emphasized the importance of education while suggesting alternatives like Star Link for cellular coverage, which reportedly does not carry the same health risks. One attendee urged the committee to postpone any voting on technology-related decisions until further information could be gathered.
The meeting also featured updates from the superintendent, who congratulated Rebecca Mazanssen, an English language development teacher, for her selection in the Fulbright Hays Fellowship. The district announced a shift to a digital-only format for its annual report to save costs, with plans to distribute postcards containing QR codes to ensure accessibility for all community members.
In a significant development, the superintendent reported that the town of Acton would be classified as high risk for Bridal E, prompting a change in scheduling for outdoor activities to conclude before dusk. This decision aims to prioritize safety as the community navigates health concerns.
Attendance issues were also a focal point, with the superintendent revealing that student absences have increased dramatically since 2019. The district plans to communicate with families about the importance of regular attendance and will send out a specific letter addressing these concerns.
Lastly, the elementary budget task force faced challenges in scheduling meetings that accommodate community members, leading to the decision to maintain previously published times despite conflicts. The committee expressed regret over the difficulties but noted the lack of viable alternatives.