Parents Advocate for Improved Air Quality and Screen Time Policies in Bend La Pine Schools

During the Bend-LaPine School Board's regular meeting on June 17, 2025, community members voiced pressing concerns regarding educational equity, air quality, and technology use in schools, highlighting the need for immediate action to support students' diverse needs.

One of the most poignant discussions came from a parent advocating for advanced learners like her child, Solian. She emphasized that while detracking policies aim to promote equity, they can inadvertently hinder the educational growth of advanced students. The parent urged the board to find solutions that allow all students, including those who excel, to remain engaged and challenged in their learning environments.

Air quality was another critical topic raised by Amanda Dayton, who called for the board to prioritize both indoor and outdoor air quality in schools. With Central Oregon experiencing an increase in unhealthy air days due to wildfires, Dayton pointed out that the district's current policy allows students to remain outdoors until the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds 200, which is less stringent than guidelines in neighboring states. She urged the board to adopt a more protective stance, aligning with the 150 AQI threshold used by other districts to safeguard students' health.

Brooke Muse, a parent and co-founder of a local tech advocacy group, expressed concerns about the excessive screen time in schools. She highlighted the lack of transparency regarding technology use and called for the district to establish clear guidelines on screen time for different grade levels. Muse emphasized the need for data to assess the impact of educational technology on student performance, urging the board to prioritize healthy tech use in classrooms.

The meeting also featured student voices, including valedictorian Sylvie Cummings, who shared her positive experiences at Bend International School. She advocated for equitable funding to enhance educational opportunities for all students. Another student, Sylvia Tatum, spoke about her experiences in the Talented and Gifted (TAG) program, expressing frustration over a lack of challenge in her curriculum and calling for improvements to better serve advanced learners.

The discussions at this meeting reflect a community deeply invested in ensuring that all students receive a quality education tailored to their needs. As the school board considers these concerns, the outcomes could significantly impact the educational landscape in Bend-LaPine, fostering an environment where every child can thrive.