Magdalena School Board adopts AI and cell phone policies

The board approved two significant policy updates from the New Mexico School Boards Association (NMSBA).

“The big policy is Advisory 272,” Bickert said. “It lays out recommendations for use of AI in schools… academic integrity is addressed, and more training and professional development about AI.”

The second policy revises the district’s approach to cell phone and electronic device use. Two options were discussed, and option A states school principals, working with the superintendent, may set rules governing student use of wireless devices during instructional and non-instructional hours. Per the policy, “nothing in this policy prohibits the complete prohibition of student use or possession of wireless communication devices during the school day and/or at times during which the district has supervisory authority over students.”

Option A passed unanimously.

Staff update

Bickert said staffing is nearly complete, with active searches for a cheerleading coach, middle school football coach and payroll technician. Following the departure of the human resources director, Bickert said HR duties will now be shared between himself and the school principals.

“The other admin will balance it out as needed,” he said.

When asked by board member Brett Bruton if this arrangement gives employees a clear avenue for concerns, Bickert said, “Small district, not a problem.”

Board member Kelby Stephens also raised concerns about a rumor that staff were being discouraged from speaking directly to board members. Bickert said board rule B30-50 requires staff to follow supervisory channels before approaching the board.

“Going directly to the board is inappropriate and does violate board policy,” he said. “If an elementary teacher has an issue, they need to go to the elementary principal… If that person doesn’t have the power to solve the problem, they need to bring it to the superintendent.”

Additional approvals included updates to the transportation handbook and salary schedules.

Superintendent Bickert said the salary corrections would result in raises addressing longstanding discrepancies.

“Twenty-four people will see salary increases after these are approved,” he said. “And no one will see a decrease.”

Board member Brett Bruton said he was concerned about funding sources, noting the district’s tight budget.

“I love people getting more money,” Bruton said, “but I’m still confused. Where are we getting this money from?”

Bickert said the money will come from the operational budget.

In other business

Board Vice President Kelby Stephens said he heard rumors that classroom supplies had been removed to offset costs. Bickert said no supplies were taken from classrooms and that the district had simply consolidated surplus items stored in rooms and supply closets.

“We gathered stuff that was in classrooms and supply rooms to get supplies to our students,” he said. “That was the goal, to take care of more of our kids so our parents have to spend less money.”

He said during the executive session he would walk board members through the elementary supply closet, and said “It still looks like a Staples office store.”

Superintendent George Bickert gave a facilities update, he said the Southeast parking lot is scheduled for paving September 15–19, weather permitting.

“We received an update this morning,” Bickert said. “That’s when that will take place.”

Bickert also said that work on the running track is ongoing and, weather permitting, will be finished within 6 weeks, and adjustments have been made to home football games.

The next school board meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on September 17 at the Magdalena School Library.