Knox County parents advocate for stricter smartphone policies in schools

The Knox County Schools Board of Education held a work session on July 7, 2025, focusing primarily on the proposed wireless device policy for students. The meeting featured public comments from several parents advocating for stricter regulations regarding smartphone use in schools.

The session began with Keith Britt, a parent of three KCS students, who emphasized the importance of maintaining a straightforward policy regarding smartphone usage. He argued that complex policies lead to confusion and ineffective outcomes. Britt urged the board to adopt version 2 of the proposed wireless device policy, which would restrict phone use during school hours, citing research on the negative impacts of smartphone use on teenagers.

Following Britt, Margo Kern, a mother of two KCS students and leader of a local group focused on smartphone culture, echoed similar sentiments. Kern highlighted the detrimental effects of smartphones on students' learning environments, including increased bullying and distractions. She advocated for a clear policy that allows phones only before and after school, arguing that allowing phone use between classes would undermine the intended benefits of the policy.

Both speakers underscored the need for a simple and enforceable policy to help students focus on their education and foster healthier social interactions. They called on the board to consider the broader implications of smartphone use on children's well-being and academic performance.

The meeting also included a reminder from the board regarding public comment policies, indicating that future speakers would need to address agenda items specifically. The discussions reflected a growing concern among parents about the influence of smartphones on youth and the desire for proactive measures to mitigate these effects within the school system.

As the meeting concluded, the board members were left to consider the feedback from parents as they move forward with discussions on the wireless device policy and its potential implementation in the upcoming school year.