Eagle Mountain Saginaw approves lawsuit against social media companies over harmful algorithms

Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD is taking a bold step in addressing the impact of social media on youth by joining a nationwide lawsuit against major social media companies. During the March 31, 2025, regular board meeting, trustees unanimously approved a resolution to participate in this contingent fee lawsuit, which aims to challenge harmful algorithms that contribute to addictive behaviors among young users.

The district, along with several others in Texas, was approached by the respected law firm Thompson and Horton to take part in this legal action. The lawsuit is designed to hold social media companies accountable for the negative consequences their platforms have on students and communities. Notably, the district will incur no costs unless the lawsuit is successful, making this a low-risk opportunity to seek justice for the challenges posed by social media.

In addition to the lawsuit, the board also approved a resolution to change the school district's fiscal year start date, allowing for better financial planning and resource allocation. The trustees discussed the implications of this change, emphasizing its importance in managing the district's budget effectively.

The meeting also covered preparations for the upcoming May trustee elections, with the board approving a joint election agreement with Tarrant County, which will cost approximately $40,000. A special meeting was scheduled for May 13, 2025, to canvass the election results.

Other significant actions included the approval of class size waivers for pre-kindergarten through fourth grade, additional staffing for the 2025-2026 school year, and the adoption of new K-5 reading instructional materials. The board also awarded contracts for playground resurfacing at multiple campuses, ensuring safe and updated play areas for students.

The Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD board's proactive measures reflect a commitment to addressing pressing issues affecting students while ensuring the district's operational efficiency and educational quality. As the district moves forward with these initiatives, the community can anticipate positive changes aimed at enhancing student well-being and academic success.