Davis School Board discusses cell phone policy and community feedback strategies

Davis School District's Board of Education made significant strides towards refining its cell phone policy during their meeting on July 15, 2025. The board discussed the potential implementation of a "bell-to-bell" cell phone ban in junior high and high schools, aiming to enhance student focus and mental health.

The board emphasized the importance of gathering feedback from parents and administrators before finalizing any policy changes. Superintendent Dr. Linford highlighted the need for a survey to gauge community sentiment, particularly from parents, about the proposed restrictions. While some board members expressed concerns about the feasibility of conducting a comprehensive survey over the summer, others suggested leveraging existing communication channels, such as social media and school newsletters, to solicit input.

A key point of contention was the enforcement of the proposed policy. Board members debated the practicality of monitoring cell phone use during lunch and class time, with some advocating for principal discretion in allowing exceptions for academic purposes. The board ultimately decided to maintain flexibility in the policy, allowing principals to designate specific times or areas for cell phone use related to educational activities.

The board's discussions underscored a commitment to balancing student autonomy with the need for a structured learning environment. As the policy evolves, the board plans to continue engaging with the community to ensure that any changes reflect the values and needs of Davis County families. The next steps will involve collecting feedback and refining the policy based on community input, with a focus on fostering a supportive educational atmosphere for all students.