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Board approves first reading of restrictive student cell‑phone policy; phones to be off and stored during school and on‑route buses
Summary
The district approved first reading of policy JFCK, which would prohibit student phone use during instructional time, require devices remain powered off and stored (including on district buses), and allow confiscation for violations; principals and staff said the change would help reduce classroom and bus disruptions.
The Unit County School District No. 1 Board of Trustees voted to approve the first reading of policy JFCK, a districtwide student cell‑phone use policy that would bar phone use during instructional time and require devices be kept powered off and stored in backpacks, lockers or vehicles while on campus and on district transportation.
Superintendent‑level staff said the policy is intended to reduce instructional disruptions and offload enforcement from principals by making the restriction district policy. The draft permits exceptions for coaches, sponsors or administrators in limited circumstances (emergencies, health monitoring, delayed travel) and states that schools will provide phones and a process for parents to leave messages for students.
Under the draft, unauthorized use of phones in private areas such as locker rooms or hotel rooms that violates another person’s privacy would trigger discipline up to expulsion and could prompt state or federal legal consequences. Confiscated devices will be returned at the end of the school day at the discretion of administrators for first or second offenses; repeated offenses may result in additional discipline under the student handbook.
Board members and principals said the policy responds to recurring problems on buses and in buildings. Mr. Fackrell and principals supported including bus routes in the ban because phone misuse had caused inappropriate conduct and distracted drivers. The board approved the policy on first reading (motion by Jenny; second by Caleb) and will consider a second reading in September after legal review and potential technical edits.
The policy text also directs schools to allow student access to school phones when needed and confirms the office will relay parental messages to students. Administrators said the policy aims to balance safety and communication needs while setting a consistent district standard for enforcement.
