SHEPHERD — On July 24, the Shepherd ISD Board of Trustees conducted a meeting to discuss new reports, information, and policy updates for the upcoming school year.
Jason Hewitt, Superintendent of SISD, took the floor to discuss the new Texas law (House Bill 4181), that prohibits the use of personal technology and communication devices. Students will not be allowed to contact anyone, including parents and guardians, during regular school day hours without the approval or facilitation of Shepherd ISD faculty.
These devices include, but are not limited to cell phones, tablets, and smart watches. Hewitt states that students will receive a pouch with a magnetic locking mechanism that will prevent them access to their devices during the regular instruction period.
Hewitt speaks on the valid concerns that the board and parent may have due to implementing this new policy at SISD. A major concern highlighted during the meeting was student access to devices being prohibited during an emergency.
Hewitt states that we “have to let the law enforcement do the law enforcement work.” Hewitt insists that students are more likely to order fast food via a parent than it being an emergency where communication devices are required.
Hewitt further explains that disobeying this new policy will not only have consequences for the students, but also for the parents. “They have to be stewards of this rule as well. This is not just a school issue, this is a school community issue, and they have to understand it,” Hewitt said. The board approved this new policy excluding the exception of the $15 fee.
Furthermore, other policies were introduced to the district during the meeting. With the help of the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) Policy Service, SISD has updated district policies for the first time in 10 years. All updated policies were approved by the board.
In other business, board member
The next scheduled meeting is on Aug. 21 at 6 p.m.
