During a recent school board meeting, community members voiced significant concerns regarding the impact of technology and vaccination policies on students' well-being.

One speaker highlighted the contentious nature of discussions surrounding COVID-19 vaccinations, emphasizing the need for careful communication from school board members to avoid offending community members. The speaker expressed skepticism about the safety and efficacy of emergency-certified vaccines, advocating for parental choice in vaccination decisions.

Another parent, Kirsten McGowan, raised alarms about the increasing presence of smartphones in classrooms. She argued that smartphones are detrimental to children's development, contributing to issues such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. McGowan called for a comprehensive no-phone policy during school hours, citing research that links smartphone use to negative health outcomes and impaired social skills.

In response to these challenges, McGowan announced her involvement in the \"Wait Until 8th\" movement, which encourages parents to delay their children's access to smartphones and social media. This initiative aims to foster a healthier relationship with technology among students, promoting a balanced approach that prioritizes real-life interactions and play.

The discussions reflect a growing concern among parents and educators about the intersection of technology, health, and education, underscoring the need for collaborative efforts to address these pressing issues in schools.