Message to Students from Superintendent Looney

Published January 14, 2015

Now that school has dismissed for the day, I thought it would be good for me to send you a short communication. Today and last week, a number of students posted on social media profanity and other inappropriate, demeaning, and harmful messages as an expression of dissatisfaction with school being in session. I do encourage you to express your views and opinions. However, I expect you do so in a responsible way.

Our district policy prohibits students from posting on Twitter during the school day for anything other than educational purposes. I have discussed this today with your building principals, and I know they will be working to correct this at school beginning tomorrow.

I consider it a privilege that you follow me on Twitter, and I do enjoy interacting with students on school issues before or after school.

Clearly there are times when you will not like something about a class, a teacher, your school or even a decision that I make. Today is an example of a time when some of you disagreed with a decision I made.

Three years ago, our district made the decision to allow students to bring their own digital devices to school in an effort to enhance the learning experiences of our students and to make school more relevant. In addition, we recognize the importance of good communication skills and building digital citizenship.

My pledge to you is to make the best decisions possible, based on available information, with your best interests in mind. I will on occasion not meet your expectations like today for example.

As it relates to making a snow day call, here is how it works:

On days when we expect inclement weather, our transportation department sends out spotters around 4:00 a.m. to survey road conditions.

Our Director of Safety communicates with EMA, law enforcement and state and county road officials.

In order to communicate a change in school schedules, I must notify Mrs. Birdsong no later than 5:30 a.m. so that she can prepare communication to families, employees and the media.

Our bus routes begin just before 6:00 a.m.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Be Nice,

Mike Looney