School board approves six policies on second reading; superintendent highlights phone-free results and energy-saving campaign

The Wenatchee School District board approved the second reading of six policies in a single motion and voice vote. A motion to approve was moved by Maria and seconded by Martin; the board voted "aye" with no opposition.

(Transcript formatting rendered the policy numbers unclearly at the meeting; the board recorded the second reading and approved the policies during the session.)

Superintendent Corey used his report to recap recent community events—Fiesta Mexicanas at Triangle Park and a food-truck event at Wenatchee Valley College—and to highlight a new student-led energy program. He said advanced energy management (AEM) student interns launched an "occupant savings" campaign that asks staff and students to make small behavioral changes (turning off lights, using sleep mode on devices, closing blinds) to reduce energy use; the campaign will begin Sept. 29.

Corey also summarized early feedback on the district's phone-free policy from a superintendent's advisory committee: students told the board that initial hesitancy has given way to improved focus and participation, and some students said the policy helps them develop communication skills and cope without relying on phones. "Students are complying, but some have severe phone addiction," Corey relayed from advisory members; several students said the policy has helped them pay more attention in class.

Corey said the district will receive more detailed site reports in October on how the policy is working in specific buildings. He also noted fundraiser and partnership activity by local groups and urged continued community engagement.