Student use of cell phones and similar electronic devices would be limited to the Peekskill High School cafeteria under proposed changes to the district’s Code of Conduct.
The Code of Conduct Committee has been reviewing the policy and surveying the staff this school year regarding such behavior as wearing hats in the school and using personal electronic devices. While hats have not caused difficulties, the electronic devices have caused “significant problems,” Maxine O’Connor, director of pupil personnel services, told the Board of Education last week.
The committee is expected to recommend stiffer penalties for violations when it presents the policy revisions to the board June 19. O’Connor said the revisions also would address district compliance with the new Dignity of All Students Act, effective July 1, which deals with 13 types of anti-discriminatory behavior.
Board President Joseph Urbanowicz suggested an online course about the code for staffers in addition to the annual September training and urged consistency in the application of the code.
Also during the meeting:
- In conjunction with the district’s efforts to balance its budget for the 2012-13 school year, the board, as planned, formally abolished instructional and non-instructional positions. For lists of positions please click here, scroll down to Section K, then click on Items 4 and 5.
- The board approved a request by Joseph Mosey, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, to waive his scheduled salary increase for 2012-13.
- Superintendent of Schools James Willis reported that state Sen. Greg Ball, R-Patterson, is obtaining a $75,000 grant to make all of Peekskill High School a wireless online zone.
- The board approved a contract, not to exceed $18,000, with consultant Jeff Piontek to help the district develop its alternative education program. The contract runs through June 30.
- Board members renewed their criticism of contracts for student health and other services that were not in place at the beginning of the school year – “a sore subject,” Urbanowicz said. O’Connor said Peekskill must, by law, continue securing services even if providers do not submit their contracts promptly. Willis said he would push providers for timely provision of paperwork.
- The district is seeking residents to serve on the Audit Committee. Please contact District Clerk Debra McLeod, DMcLeod@peekskillcsd.org
- The Wellness Committee is encouraging more healthful snacks at school parties, and monthly instead of individual birthday parties.
- The board adopted new policies on Internet Safety and Claims Auditor.
- The board approved staff appointments and resignations, including the appointments of four student teachers.
- The board approved donations of 1,365 books. For the complete list please click here, scroll down to Section L, then click on Item 2.
- The board accepted special education federal grants of $794,445 and $47,419.
- The board approved a $17,532.94 tax certiorari settlement with Peekskill Bay LLC.
- Willis said district transportation officials would investigate concerns about school buses possibly idling longer than necessary.
