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Board approves 2025–26 handbooks with edits after debate on smart glasses, attendance and grading
Summary
The Monroe board approved the 2025–26 parent and student handbooks as amended after discussion about electronic device rules (including smart glasses), evidence‑based grading rollout, attendance thresholds for commencement eligibility, and language translations. Administrators will make edits and post materials for families.
The Monroe School District Board of Education voted July 14 to approve the district’s 2025–26 building parent and student handbooks as amended following detailed discussion on several student‑policy issues.
Key issues discussed: - Electronic communication devices: Board members asked whether the handbook’s prohibition on using devices in bathrooms and locker rooms and the requirement that devices only be used for educational purposes covers smart glasses. Administration said current language would treat smart glasses similarly to cell phones but recommended an explicit handbook addition because the district has not yet encountered widespread student use of smart glasses.
- Evidence‑based grading (EBG): Board members asked for clearer communication on which courses will use evidence‑based grading versus traditional grading. Administration said roughly 40% of courses are currently using evidence‑based approaches (primarily freshman and sophomore core classes) and proposed publishing a course‑level listing on the website and in course overviews rather than embedding extensive detail in the handbook.
- Commencement attendance thresholds: The board discussed raising attendance expectations tied to student eligibility to participate in commencement ceremonies; administration clarified the policy focuses on attendance thresholds rather than grades and noted students still receive diplomas even if ineligible to walk.
- Language accessibility and policy redlines: Board members asked whether the handbooks are available in Spanish and other languages; administration will confirm and ensure translations are available as needed. A redline on the high‑school search and seizure policy was noted for follow up.
Motion and approval: After clarifying edits and direction from the board, members moved and seconded (motion by Phil, second by Nicole) to approve the 2025–26 handbooks as amended; the motion carried.
Next steps: Administration will make the specified edits, confirm translations, and publish the handbooks and related course materials for families before the school year starts.
