The Gadsden Independent Schools District (GISD) Board convened on April 26, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including updates on Title IX policies, cell phone regulations, and insights from recent conferences attended by board members.

The meeting began with a presentation on Title IX policy updates. The board reviewed proposed changes, which included minimal adjustments highlighted in pink on the documents. These changes are not mandatory but align with the new regulations effective from 2024. The policies cover grievance procedures and complaint forms, with a second reading scheduled for the next board meeting.

Next, Superintendent Dempsey addressed the topic of electronic communication devices, specifically cell phones in schools. He noted recent legislative changes that require the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) to provide guidance by August 1. Dempsey emphasized the importance of consistency in enforcing cell phone policies across schools, highlighting that students generally understand the rules. He expressed concerns about the potential for inconsistency among teachers and the need for a unified approach to ensure students remain focused during class while still being able to contact parents after school.

The board then moved to discuss updates from recent conferences attended by its members. Board member Morales shared insights from a session on supporting students on the autism spectrum, emphasizing the importance of early identification and effective communication strategies. He also discussed educator evaluations and suggested that the district consider adopting a more rigorous evaluation rubric to enhance staff quality.

Board member Flores highlighted the significance of elevating student voices within the district, proposing the idea of allowing a student representative to sit on the board with voting rights. She noted that some states have successfully implemented this model and suggested exploring its feasibility in GISD.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the need for board self-assessments to ensure accountability and alignment with student-centered goals. Board members expressed a commitment to continuous improvement and the importance of maintaining focus on student outcomes.

Overall, the meeting underscored GISD's dedication to refining policies and practices that support both students and educators, with a clear emphasis on collaboration and accountability moving forward. The board plans to revisit several topics in future meetings, ensuring that all stakeholders are engaged in the decision-making process.