Board approves personal electronic devices policy for public comment after debate over enforcement language

The Harrison County Board of Education voted to create policy 51 36, concerning personal electronic devices, and to send the policy to a public comment period after a discussion about disciplinary language and consistent enforcement across schools.

Board members questioned the policy’s violations section, which uses the term “may result in disciplinary action and/or confiscation.” One board member asked, “Does it say shall? No. It says may,” and pressed for consistency so every school enforces the same consequences. A separate board member proposed a monthly report showing how many violations each elementary and secondary school records so the board can track enforcement patterns.

The superintendent said administrative guidelines exist and that the guidelines distinguish procedures for elementary and secondary students, describing progressive steps for first, second and third offenses. “There are those guidelines. They're already set forth as to first offense. This is what happens. Second offense, third offense as well,” the superintendent said, noting that principals are expected to enforce the guidelines.

Board members emphasized consistent application. One member said the board should ensure “whatever group A does, group B needs to get to,” arguing for uniform expectations. After discussion, the motion to create the policy and open a public-comment period was moved and seconded; the board approved the motion by voice vote.

The policy will proceed to the public comment phase; administrators and principals will continue enforcing existing administrative guidelines in the interim.