School board facing technology challenges
Apr. 11—The benefits and challenges of technology were on the forefront of Tuesday's Lee County Schools Board of Education meeting.
James Alverson, public information officer, addressed the board about a revamped website, www.lee.k12.nc.us, but what to do about continuing challenges with students' cell phones was left unanswered.
School board chair Eric Davidson noted that the new website launched on Friday, April 5. He also mentioned two new cell phone applications, including one that allows parents to track school buses. He added that students can now use WiFi on buses so they can do homework while en route to or from school.
Alverson highlighted a parent hub on the new website, which provides resources for parents to connect.
Davidson thanked Alverson for his work on the website. "That was a heavy, heavy lift," Davidson said. "I know it costs, but we need it desperately."
Board member Jamey Laudate presented an update from the Facilities and Technology Committee from April 3. Laudate said the committee discussed the possibility of having students use a Yondr pouch to store mobile devices during class time. This could help thwart cyberbullying, Laudate said.
After the meeting, Alverson said the district recently adopted an updated student cell phone policy that prohibits use of cell phones during instructional time. However, Alverson said the school board is trying to decide if cell phone use by students needs more guardrails.
"This board realizes that cell phones are an issue, and there's no easy answer," Davidson said.
Under new business, the board approved several resolutions, including one asking the state Legislature to fund the purchase of new Chromebooks. The North Carolina General Assembly is set to convene April 24 in a "short session."
Davidson said school districts across the state don't know how they're going to purchase new laptops since federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief, or ESSER, funds ran out, noting the life of a Chromebook is typically about five years.
Board member Alan Rummel said a Chromebook costs about $250.
At least two board members said the state requires online testing but doesn't fund laptops.
In a late addition to the agenda, the board approved several change orders for work on the "home" side of the Lee County High School football stadium totaling $129,552.
Alverson said the school district is trying to get the stadium ready for high school graduation in late May.
In other news, the board unanimously approved a second reading of its public participation policy at school board meetings. Instead of collecting requests to speak during public comment 30 minutes prior to a meeting, the board clerk will now get them immediately before the start of the main open session.
Also approved was a bid from D.H. Griffin Wrecking Co. for asbestos abatement and demolition of the old Jonesboro Elementary School at a cost of $490,000. It was the lowest of three bids. According to a board document, the school district will request reimbursement for this cost from the Lee County Commissioners, who earlier set aside $600,000 for the project.
