In a recent meeting of the Marlboro Central School District Board of Education, a significant focus was placed on reinforcing the rules regarding cell phone usage in high school classrooms. As the winter break approaches, school officials are preparing to implement stricter measures aimed at minimizing distractions caused by electronic devices during instructional time.

The current policy prohibits the use of cell phones in instructional spaces, including traditional classrooms and physical education settings. School administrators emphasized that phones should be completely off and stored away during class, not merely hidden or silenced on desks. This reminder comes as part of a broader initiative to enhance student focus and engagement in learning environments.

The high school team plans to communicate these expectations clearly to students and staff, aiming for 100% consistency in enforcement. Teachers will be instructed to submit referrals for any infractions, with the first offense resulting in detention and subsequent violations leading to in-school suspension. This approach is designed to establish a habit of compliance among students, fostering an environment conducive to learning.

Feedback from the student voice committee indicated that many students felt less distracted when cell phone usage was restricted, highlighting the potential benefits of the policy. As part of the initiative, parents will also receive communication outlining how they can support the school’s efforts in maintaining a focused instructional space.

As the district prepares to roll out these changes, the emphasis remains on creating a productive learning atmosphere where students can thrive without the interruptions of technology. The hope is that with consistent enforcement, students will engage more fully in their education, paving the way for a more effective learning experience.