As the new school year begins, several districts across the U.S. are implementing changes and addressing challenges. Olathe Public Schools introduced a new smartphone policy requiring students to keep their devices stowed during instructional time, with some flexibility for high school students. Sarasota County School District started the year amid budget cuts and a slight drop in enrollment due to increased use of scholarships. Olathe also adjusted school start and end times to optimize bus driver routes, despite some parental concerns. Clark County School District is enforcing a new policy requiring students to secure their phones in pouches during class to minimize distractions. Additionally, Cabarrus County Schools underwent significant redistricting, affecting thousands of students' routines.