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11/14/2024
“Missoula This Week” is reported and written by Katie Fairbanks. Send your Missoula news and tips to kfairbanks@montanafreepress.org.
Survey informs school board discussion on student cell phone rules
Missoula County Public Schools progresses in forming a district-wide smartphone policy, with trustees examining survey results from parents, students, and staff. Trustees inquired about smartphone rule enforcement with school principals. The existing policy allows schools to manage device use, with classroom application decided by teachers.
A coalition of parents and educators keen on minimizing smartphone impact on learning initiated a policy update effort. Principals use classroom caddies for phone storage; some require phones off for the day. Survey responses varied from anecdotes by board members saying rules aren’t enforced uniformly.
The survey polled 2,749 responses, allowing parents with children in different grades multiple entries. Superintendent Micah Hill noted mixed opinions on emergency phone use due to communication disruption risks. Most parents acknowledged devices distract from learning, with 60% supporting stricter rules.
Of 344 staff responses, around 95% follow policy, yet only about 74% consistently enforce it. Approximately 92% rarely allow classroom phone use, while 45% adopt storage systems. A third of staff stressed communication importance during emergencies. Nearly all staff back current or stricter rules.
Among 1,744 student respondents, most favor restricted emergency phone access. Students largely believe devices don’t distract or harm social skills. Half agree on some restrictions during school hours. Trustee Jeffery Avgeris questioned why phones aren’t centrally stored to relieve teachers.
Principals like Jennifer Courtney and Stephanie Thennis note improvement in compliance with phone caddies. Schools like Meadow Hill Middle enforce phone-free days. Principal Cameron Johnson at Willard High emphasizes tech education. Parents like Erika Peterman see inconsistent enforcement, urging uniform policies.
Parent Porter Hammitt observed weak enforcement, suggesting an “away-for-the-day” rule. The district may review survey insights for policy updates in the coming months.
Public Notice
The Missoula Consolidated Planning Board will hold a public hearing on the draft Our Missoula 2045 Land Use Plan on Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. in the County Courthouse. The board will recommend to the city council whether to adopt, modify, or reject the plan. The city council’s hearing is on Dec. 9. Residents can review and comment online.
5 Things to Know in Missoula
Efforts to restore a long-distance rail route through southern Montana are advancing, shared Dave Strohmaier, Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority chairman. The authority plans engineering, planning, and environmental review over the next two to three years. Despite federal administration changes, Strohmaier believes the project transcends political boundaries.
Missoula County commissioners approved a Targeted Economic Development District at Grant Creek Crossing after public hearings. The TEDD will facilitate infrastructure funding through tax increment revenue, excluding specific mill levies.
The Western Montana Community Center will hold a vigil for Transgender Day of Remembrance on Wednesday at 500 N. Higgins Ave. A potluck will follow, and virtual attendance is available via email request.
Dementia caregivers are invited to a listening session by Missoula Aging Services on Nov. 22 at the Missoula Public Library and online. Participants can discuss needs and learn about respite services.
Christmas tree permits are available online or from Lolo National Forest offices. Each $5 permit allows for one tree, with up to three per person. Fourth graders with the Every Kid Outdoors pass can apply for a free permit.
By the Numbers
The Missoula Electric Cooperative received $6.6 million from the U.S. Department of Energy for grid resilience against wildfire and storms. The funds will help bury 46 miles of power line in Seeley Lake. Construction is planned from 2025 to 2028.
Might be Fun
Missoula Valley Winter Market opens Saturday at Southgate Mall offering food and art vendors, operating through April 12. The Turkey Curling Fundraiser for the Can the Cats food drive happens Saturday at Glacier Ice Rink. Participants can donate $25 or equivalent food items.
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