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Students urge expanded STEM and flexible schedules; board discusses classroom cell phone restrictions
Summary
Seniors told the Board they want more engineering and computer science pathways and expanded hands‑on STEAM opportunities. Separately, Principal Anthony Hibbert recommended trialing a pouch/caddy policy to restrict phones during class; board members expressed support.
Three graduating seniors addressed the board during public comment, urging the district to expand engineering and computer science pathways and to increase hands-on, project-based opportunities in the STEAM Lab. The students said their robotics experience influenced their college and career plans and asked the district to promote broader student participation in STEM programming.
Amelia Hosack (Class of 2026) specifically asked the board to consider adopting an eight-period day to give students more flexibility to take courses aligned with their interests and postsecondary plans. "She encouraged the Board to consider an 8-period schedule and continue reviewing the high school course selection process," the meeting minutes record.
On cell phone policy, Principal Anthony Hibbert told the board that phones are currently not allowed during class time but described mixed classroom experiences: some teachers manage phone use successfully while others see phones as distractions that reduce engagement. Hibbert recommended piloting a pouch or caddy system for classrooms; the board expressed support for trying the approach without requiring a Policy Subcommittee review.
What happens next: The board supported Principal Hibbert’s recommendation to trial a classroom phone management system. The record notes continued discussion of an eight-period day as part of ongoing scheduling reviews but does not record a decision or timeline for schedule changes.
