Board Addresses Teacher Absenteeism and Welcomes New Superintendents at Meeting

The Francis Howell School District (FHSD) Board of Education convened on July 17, 2025, to address several key issues impacting the district, including a proposed cell phone ban and concerns over employee absenteeism.

One of the most discussed topics was the initial reading of a proposed ban on cell phones in schools. While the ban allows students to use their phones before and after school, as well as during breaks, some board members expressed concerns about the need for parents to communicate with their children during emergencies, such as severe weather or school safety incidents. The proposal is expected to undergo further revisions before a final vote.

In a significant presentation, Carl Servey highlighted the issue of employee absenteeism, particularly among teachers. He reported that in 2022, teachers in the district were absent for over 19,000 days, averaging about 114 absences per day. This high rate of absenteeism means that students often do not have their regular teachers, which can impact their learning experience. Servey emphasized the need for strategies to reduce absenteeism, suggesting that addressing this issue could lead to better educational outcomes for students without incurring additional costs for the district.

The meeting also included updates from the Francis Howell Education Association (FHEA) and the Francis Howell Instructional Support Professionals Association (FISPA). Both organizations welcomed new leadership and expressed eagerness to collaborate on improving the district. They highlighted upcoming training events and summer programs aimed at supporting students and staff.

The board approved the consent agenda and the finance and operations report, marking a productive session focused on enhancing the educational environment in the district. As the school year approaches, the board's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the experiences of both students and educators in the coming months.