Back row: Chris Shank, Greg Lackey, Tim Lackey, Monte Cross Front row: Dr. Michael Green, Jessica Goering, Laura Meyer Dick CREDIT BUHLER USD 313
By Kate Irelan
At the regular monthly USD 313 board meeting, a Prairie Hills Middle School student asked for changes to the current bullying policy. Superintendent Cindy Couchman reported that Nex-Tech approached her to erect a cell phone tower at the Prairie Hills Middle School football practice field.
During the statements from the audience, a PHMS student spoke about their experience with the failure of current bullying policies to protect him and other students and his thoughts about staff not having enough training on suicide. The student pointed out the inadequacies and proposed possible solutions.
“I looked at the bullying policy,” said the student. “It’s a blanket policy for the whole district. At the middle school, there is a huge power imbalance. I and kids like me are treated differently because we are unique and do not blend in. We are not part of major sports.”
“We are expected to use an online bullying report form but it is not well known how to find it. Why not have staff submit a report in person or allow students to approach staff to report in person? Staff training needs to follow the same model of learning as students are expected to from previous incidents and adjusting policies. An example, I was not allowed to celebrate my passed friend’s life at school by decorating their locker. There could have been a conversation somewhere along the way,” said the student.
“Maybe there can be anti-bullying policies unique to each school. Staff should be taught the impact of words, implement a 5-minute check-in when class starts, and enhance policy for the school. “I am begging for change and offering to help.”
Board member Greg Lackey thanked the student for his bravery in presenting the issue and confirmed that Couchman had the information to proceed with the discussion.
Couchman then discussed a proposal from NexTek Wireless regarding a possible 120-foot cell reception tower at PHMS by the practice football field. NexTek would pay a monthly lease, put a light on the tower, and pay for electricity and taxes. Couchman said they are looking into sample leases and location options that make sense for a potential overall lighting plan for the field. The board agreed that having a cell tower on 30th Street would be a benefit to the rural community.
The board’s next meeting is on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 6 p.m. at the Burkholder Administrative Center, 406 7th Ave in Buhler. To access meeting minutes, visit their website, www.USD313.org.
