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SDUC Newsletter 07/17/25

SDUC Newsletter 07/17/25
SDUC Newsletter07/17/25

Message From Our Superintendent | August 18, 2025 Message From Our Superintendent | August 18, 2025

Sharonica L. Hardin-Bartley, Ph.D., PHR
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Dear University City Community,


Welcome to the 2025-26 SY! Today was full of excitement and so much joy! Our staff worked diligently to prepare for this day. Even with construction in progress in some spaces, we were ready for this special day. I love seeing our students and families, and I am confident that collectively, we will have a wonderful school year.


As many of you are aware, in July, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe signed Senate Bill 68 into law, requiring all public school districts to adopt a policy that restricts or prohibits student use of cell phones and other personal communication devices during the school day, including breaks and lunch. The goal of this law is to reduce distractions and foster a focused, productive, and healthy learning environment. The District must comply with the law by August 28, 2025.

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To provide families and community members with an opportunity to learn more, I will host a CommUNITY Chat via Zoom on Monday, August 25, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. This session will address questions and concerns related to the policy. Registration is available at www.ucityschools.org/commchat.


The School District of University City’s Commitment:

  • Supportive Over Punitive: Our focus is on encouraging healthy habits, digital wellness, and human connection, not on punishment. However, consequences will be applied when necessary for repeated or disruptive behaviors.

  • Learning-Centered: From the first bell to dismissal, policies reinforce student engagement, focus, and interpersonal communication.

  • Clear and Consistent Communication: Students, families, and staff will receive ongoing reminders and clear explanations of the policy.

This new legislation requires the District to update its cell phone policy. The proposed policy, JFCD: Student Use of Personal Communication Devices, was presented at the Board of Education Work Session on Thursday, August 7, and will be considered for adoption at the Board of Education Meeting on Thursday, August 21. Families may review the full proposed policy in the August 7 Work Session agenda. In addition, proposed amendments to JG-R1: Student Discipline align with the updated policy.


All adopted District policies can be viewed at www.ucityschools.org/boarddocs, and all student expectations are available at www.ucityschools.org/SEG.


We acknowledge that this policy will be an adjustment for many students, families, and staff. Change takes time, and we are committed to working together, offering support, and maintaining open lines of communication to help ensure a smooth transition. We appreciate your partnership in creating a learning environment where students can stay present, connected, and engaged.

In Service of Our Children,

Sharonica L. Hardin-Bartley, Ph.D., PHR

Superintendent

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The School District of University City

Website: ucityschools.org

Address: Ronald E. McNair Administration Building | 7700 Olive Blvd., University City, MO 63130

Contact: cco@ucityschools.org

The School District of University City
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