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Superintendent: implement state cell-phone ban by Aug. 1; EV-bus waiver, grants and Chromebook safety noted
Summary
Superintendent reported that New York's budget includes a bell-to-bell cell-phone ban the district must implement by Aug. 1, described an EV-bus waiver requiring an NYSERDA plan, noted pending federal grant releases, highlighted FAFSA outreach success, and warned about a TikTok Chromebook-safety hazard.
During the meeting, the superintendent gave several operational updates the district will act on before the next school year.
The superintendent said the state budget that passed includes a bell-to-bell cell-phone ban for the 2025–26 school year; the district must have an implementation plan in place by Aug. 1, and administrators will meet to develop procedures.
On transportation, the superintendent said an EV-bus implementation waiver has been extended two years; to secure the waiver the district must work with NYSERDA on an electrification implementation plan, and further details from NYSERDA are pending.
Regarding federal aid, the superintendent reported the U.S. Department of Education had not yet released Title I or 'DEA' grant funds for next year (approximately $325,000 combined currently used for academic interventions), funds the district has included in its budget but not yet received.
The superintendent also noted a statewide push on FAFSA completion that produced a "shout out" for Eldred CSD, and urged families to apply to capture Pell and other aid. Finally, she warned parents about a viral TikTok 'Chromebook challenge' that encourages students to insert metal objects into device ports, creating an electrical-short and fire risk; parents will receive a notification.
The superintendent said the district will follow state timelines and coordinate with NYSERDA where required, and that additional details will be shared when available.
