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Hillside outlines technology, security and budget timelines: phone ban, AI policy, cybersecurity and FAFSA reminder
Summary
Superintendent told the board the district will implement a statewide cell-phone ban, intends a July 1 AI policy first read, needs cybersecurity fixes, and reminded families that financial aid forms are required for graduating seniors.
The Hillside superintendent used his report to brief the board on several operational priorities: a governor- and New Jersey Department of Education-mandated student cell-phone ban, a district artificial intelligence policy slated for a first read by July 1, recent cybersecurity findings, and a reminder about financial aid paperwork for seniors.
The superintendent said the governor and NJDOE have issued a mandate banning cell phones across schools, and the district will develop a local policy intended to teach students healthy phone habits rather than impose immediate suspensions for first offenses. "We have to follow this mandate put forth by the governor's office and the New Jersey Department of Education," he said.
On technology policy, the superintendent said an AI policy will be available for a first read by July 1 of the new fiscal year and warned parents that if they have not completed their child's Google education acceptable-use form, the student may be blocked from some district technology features.
A cybersecurity report presented to the district identified vulnerabilities the superintendent said staff must address to protect district systems from attacks and ransomware. The superintendent praised the district technology team for keeping systems secure so far while acknowledging work remains.
He also reminded families that completion of the financial aid application is required for seniors' graduation, calling it a state requirement and urging immediate action by families with seniors.
On budgeting, the superintendent said the meeting’s finance motion was for submission of a tentative budget to the Department of Education and that the board’s budget hearing is scheduled for May 7; the budget remains tentative and will be finalized after the hearing.
