MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 is adjusting athletic schedules because of extreme heat while implementing new policies governing student cellphone use and social media communication.
Superintendent Cindy Couchman said district activity directors are using wet-bulb globe temperature readings to determine whether practices and competitions can safely proceed. The measurements account for factors including temperature, humidity, sunlight and cloud cover.
Kansas State High School Activities Association guidelines determine how long athletes may participate and how frequently they must receive breaks. Activities may be prohibited when conditions reach the highest risk category.
Couchman said schedule changes will be posted on the district’s social media and individual school pages.
“We’re always going to go on the side of safety with our students,” Couchman said.
The district also has begun enforcing its new cellphone policy under a “see it, hear it, take it” approach. Students must keep phones out of sight and silent during the school day.
Couchman said the policy’s rollout has gone smoothly, with most early violations involving misunderstandings or accidental incidents rather than deliberate defiance. Parents and staff have largely supported the change, she said.
A separate social media policy took effect Sept. 1. District employees may no longer communicate with students through social media. The restriction applies to anyone receiving a paycheck from USD 313, not only teachers and administrators.
Only social media accounts approved by the Board of Education may continue operating. The district is directing school-related communication to approved platforms, including Rooms and Bound.
Couchman said the changes are intended to protect both students and employees.
The district, meanwhile, is accepting applications for an open at-large seat on the USD 313 Board of Education following Chris Shank’s resignation. Any eligible resident of the school district may apply.
Applications are due to the district’s central office by Sept. 18. The remaining board members will interview applicants and select someone to complete Shank’s unexpired term. Couchman said the district hopes to fill the position by the end of September or no later than the October board meeting.
The school year also began with two new administrators. Kim Herron joined the district as Ad Astra director, while Dylan Graves became an assistant principal at Buhler High School.
Couchman said employee turnover was relatively low this year, helping the district maintain continuity in its programs, communication and culture. The district’s theme for the year is “community,” emphasizing connections among students, employees, families and residents.
Students will not have classes Monday, Sept. 7, because of Labor Day or Monday, Sept. 14, when district employees participate in professional development.