Board adopts updated electronic-device policy; attempt to remove instructional-use exception fails

The Wentzville School District Board on Aug. 21 approved a revised student electronic-device policy (policy 2656) after debate about whether to keep an exception that allows device use for “authorized instructional use.” One board member moved to remove the exception, saying that keeping a broad “authorized instructional use” exception could create inconsistent classroom practice and effectively permit staff to allow personal-phone use during instruction. The motion to remove the exception failed on a roll-call vote. District staff and some board members said the exception is included to handle limited cases such as individualized education program (IEP) accommodations, Section 504 health or safety needs, and genuine emergencies. Technology staff noted many instructional tools are available on district-issued Chromebooks and that relying on students’ personal phones could raise equity and security issues; board and staff also discussed two-factor authentication scenarios where a phone may be necessary for a specific, limited use. After the failed amendment, the board voted to waive the second reading and approve policy 2656 as presented. Pat, who advised the board on legal matters, said the statutory requirement is to adopt a device policy and that boards may include narrowly drawn exceptions. “The mandatory part of the policy is the prohibition on the display and use of electronic personal devices,” Pat said; exceptions listed in the policy are intended to address medical, safety and individualized needs. The approved policy will be published with the district’s code-of-conduct materials and applied in schools. Board members directed administrators to provide consistent guidance to staff about permitted exceptions.