Board tables revision to student device policy after discussion of new Missouri law; lawyers to refine language

The Parkway School District Board of Education discussed revisions to its student electronic-device policy on June 11 in response to state legislation passed May 13, 2025, and then voted to table final board action so administrators and counsel can refine language.

District staff read text from the pending statute (identified in the meeting as Section 162.207) that would require districts to adopt policies prohibiting student use or display of electronic personal communication devices during the school day "including but not limited to during instructional time, meal times, breaks, time between classes, and study halls." The statute, as read to the board, allows exceptions for students who need devices because of individualized education programs (IEPs) or 504 plans, for emergencies and for authorized educational purposes.

A district staff member summarized the proposed local policy changes that would replace references to "personal electronic devices" with the statute’s term "electronic personal communication devices" and add examples such as cell phones, tablets and smartwatches. The staff member noted the governor had not signed the bill at the time of the meeting but said the district anticipated it would be signed before the end of June and that, in any case, the new policy should be ready for inclusion in student handbooks.

Board members raised several substantive questions: how the policy would address teacher-authorized instructional uses, who would be authorized to grant permission, whether the policy should require devices to be powered off, and how to define the school day and items such as passing periods and bus use. One board member summarized the enforcement concern: if the rule requires items be stored in backpacks but consequences apply only when a device is used or causes disruption, students could argue they did not violate disciplinary thresholds.

Administrators said they have been working with teacher groups and principals on procedures and would draft clearer language; the staff indicated they would substitute statutory language rather than retrofitting the old policy. The district asked for time to revise the policy and consult counsel.

The board voted to table the policy update until the next board meeting and directed administration to provide revised language and a memo to members; staff said they would meet with counsel and present a redraft at the scheduled Monday meeting. President Todd called for the vote and members said "Aye." The motion to table carried.