Rutherford County, TN - During its Feb. 22 meeting, the Rutherford County Schools board made significant decisions regarding the acquisition of new school properties and legal action against social media giants.

 

The board voted to negotiate contracts for two properties: one on Lee Road and another known as the Brewer property on Stewart Creek Road. These decisions followed careful consideration of various factors such as location, topography, utilities, and road access, which impact development costs.

 

Notably, board member Caleb Tidwell abstained from voting on the Brewer property due to his personal connection with the Brewer family.

 

Additionally, the board unanimously agreed to join a multi-district lawsuit against prominent social media companies, including Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, Snapchat, and YouTube. This legal action aims to address damages caused to students by social media products, with concerns raised about their potential role in exacerbating mental health issues and other damages.

 

RCS Director Dr. James Sullivan highlighted the adverse effects of social media on students' lives and the alleged failure of these companies to protect minors from harmful content.

 

Furthermore, the board recognized Dr. Sullivan's achievement in receiving a national certification from the School Superintendents Association, making him one of the three directors in Tennessee to achieve this certification in the past 20 months.

 

Lastly, the board unanimously approved a generous $10,000 donation to the Rockvale Middle library from the estate of the late educator Ida Read.

 

These developments underscore the board's commitment to addressing both educational needs and challenges posed by external factors impacting students' well-being.