NICOLLET — Minnesota Statute 121A.73, also known as the School Cell Phone Policy, went into effect on May 18, 2024, during the 2024 Minnesota legislature session. It requires charter schools and school districts to establish a policy for students’ use and possession of cell phones in school by March 15, 2025. 

At the school board meeting on Wednesday, Superintendent Robin Courrier, Principal Nancy Remmert, and the Nicollet School Board discussed what NPS’ policy should be for their students regarding cell phones as part of their review of the 2024-2025 Student/Parent Handbook.

“With the legislature needing to be enforced by March 2025, we need to expedite our rules so that students are trained at the beginning of the year regarding their use of cell phones in school,” Superintendent Courrier said. “Plus, they are learning that cell phones are affecting students’ mental health.”

Students having any access to cell phones during school caused the most discussion with the board as they shared their opinions.

“Socialization is being lost for students when they are on their phones for social media, gaming, and other things. I would be in favor of a band on cell phones for K-12. We all managed to survive without cell phones when we were in school,” said Board Member Nick Thom.

Board Member Ashley Black added, “If we put a band on cell phones, then we need to have better communication. We need a one and done place for where information is coming from. We need to set the tone and kids will learn from adults.”

“Parents and coaches may need to get in contact with students in grades 7 and 8 regarding sports schedules,” added Board Member Scot Osborne.

“Some students need their phones because they use them for academic purposes such as a scientific calculator,” said Board Member Jill Martens.

After discussion, the board agreed that K-4 may not use personal devices (cell phones, smart watches, etc.) during the academic day – first bell to last bell except for exceptions for students whose IEP’s (Individualized Education Plan) reflect a need. It is strongly suggested that all electronic devices be kept off and in a locker during school hours, if brought to school.

Grades 5-8 have the same rules except these students may be allowed a few minutes after lunch to use their cell phone before returning to class.

Grades 9-12 are encouraged not to bring cell phones or other electronic devices including smart watches, and earbuds to school. Devices will remain in student backpacks/lockers during instructional time or on their person turned off.

The administration will take calls from parents during the school day, and if it is an emergency, will get the information to the student.

After reviewing editing changes and identifying areas of significant changes for improvement in communication, the 2024-25 Student/Parent Handbook was approved by the board.

Superintendent Courrier recommended that a substitute salary adjustment be made to make NPS compatible with other schools in the surrounding area. She said they have been unable to build a list of substitutes with the current pay of $160 which was an increase from $120 in October 2022. The board approved an adjustment to $190 for the daily rate for substitute teachers.

Ehlers Finance advisors met with Superintendent Courrier regarding the Operating Referendum that expires 2026-2027 school year. Minnesota Statute 126C.17 allows school boards to renew an existing operating referendum one-time for the same term and same amount.

The renewal window opened July 1, 2024, and closes June 15, 2026. This one time renewal would begin fiscal year 2027-2028. Voters can renew expiring voter approved referendums beginning election year 2025 (November). Last year voters can renew the expiring voter approved referendum election year is 2026. Nick Thom said, “It would be a betrayal to voters by undermining them by not holding a vote.”

“Absolutely we need to go to the voters or be sure to communicate and offer a public forum prior to making a decision,” Superintendent Courrier said.

South Central Services recognizes exemplary employees through a Spotlight Employee Recognition Award. District Administrative Assistant Becky McKinley was recommended by Superintendent Courrier for going above and beyond her required duties to keep the school district running smoothly and acknowledging all visitors with warmth and pertinent information.

“She guided me in this transition from principal to superintendent. She filled vacant positions by working beyond her workday because things need to get done. Thank you, Becky, for all you do,” said Courrier.

Superintendent Courrier provided the following information from Athletic Director James Bernau. Loyola is adding Kruse Academy to our boys’ soccer co-op and adding Immanuel Luther to our girls’ soccer co-op. Bernau is working on including Nicollet in the Mankato Area Public School’s boys’ hockey program.

The Back-To-School Open House is scheduled for August 28, from 3:30 to 7 p.m. as a community event. The Nicollet Early Childhood Center’s playground dedication takes place at 4 p.m. The Nicollet Chamber invites the community to attend a public ice cream float social in the community room from 5:30-6:30 p.m. NPS staff will be introduced at 6:30 p.m.

Principal Nancy Remmert explained the student engagement of using Choose To Be Nice where juniors and seniors, who are chosen by teachers and administrators, will work in elementary classrooms.

Remmert said she is busy getting ready to welcome teachers for the new school year. August 22 and 23 is orientation and a workshop for new teachers and returning teachers who do not attend summer workshops. August 26-29 is teacher workshop week.