King George Middle School officials outline updated cell phone policy for new school year

The King George School Board convened on August 4, 2025, to discuss key policies and preparations for the upcoming school year, with a strong focus on managing cell phone use among students.

During the meeting, school administrators highlighted the successful implementation of cell phone policies at King George Middle School last year, which they plan to continue. Principal Dr. Noyes reported that the school community, including students and parents, largely supported the initiative, which aims to minimize distractions during instructional time. The policy encourages students to keep their cell phones at home or stored away in lockers or backpacks during school hours.

Dr. Noyes emphasized the importance of communication with parents, stating that clear expectations help students understand the rules. The school will continue to remind students and staff about the policy through assemblies and announcements, reinforcing the message that cell phones should remain off during school hours.

The discussion also touched on the challenges of enforcing these policies, particularly with smartwatches and AirPods, which have become more common among students. Administrators acknowledged that while cell phone violations were minimal, the presence of smartwatches posed a new concern due to their ability to receive messages and notifications.

Principals from the elementary schools reported similar experiences, noting that cell phone issues were not as prevalent at the younger grade levels. They plan to maintain consistent policies across all schools to ensure a unified approach to managing technology in the classroom.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from all school leaders to work collaboratively in addressing these challenges, aiming to foster an environment conducive to learning as the new school year approaches. The board's proactive stance on cell phone management reflects a broader goal of enhancing student engagement and minimizing distractions in the classroom.