Burke County Public Schools (BCPS) implemented a cell phone policy in 2022 to address disruptions and discipline issues in the classroom, unlike the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) which recently voted to ban cell phones on all campuses. The policy in BCPS allows wireless devices but prohibits their use during instructional hours without permission. Despite some challenges in enforcement by teachers and staff, BCPS notes a decrease in cell phone violations since the policy's implementation. U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy and local law enforcement also raise concerns about social media's impact on school safety. BCPS remains firm on their current policy, continuing to remind students and parents of its guidelines each new school year.
The Burke County Board of Education members recently met to discuss changes to the federal Fair Labor Standards Act that will impact the classification and compensation schedules of some school district employees. Effective July 1, certain employees will be reclassified as non-exempt from exempt, and changes to payment schedules will take place in August 2025. The modifications were triggered by updates to the FLSA in April. Notably, teachers won't be affected by these changes. The board also approved a one-year contract extension and salary increase for Superintendent Dr. Mike Swan, along with several board policies and a partnership with myFuture NC to promote educational attainment in the community.
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