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Londonderry board backs first reading of stricter high‑school cell‑phone rules
Summary
The board advanced a first reading of policy JICJ to ban personal electronic devices in credit‑bearing high‑school classrooms and require out‑of‑sight storage, with referrals to administrators and automatic after‑school detentions for violations; IEP/504 accommodations were discussed as exceptions.
The Londonderry School Board on Feb. 18 approved a first reading of proposed policy JICJ, which would prohibit personal electronic communication devices — including cell phones, tablets, earbuds and smartwatches — in credit‑bearing classrooms at Londonderry High School.
Under the proposed language, devices "should be stored in a student backpack or out of sight in a credit‑bearing classroom." Violation of the policy would be referred to building administrators for "appropriate and immediate consequences," and the board discussed a consistent administrative referral that would result in an automatic after‑school detention for students whose devices are seen in class.
Board member Amanda Butcher, speaking during discussion, praised the collaborative process of revising the proposal after public comment. "I think giving them the benefit of the doubt, and setting that clear expectation ... is the fair thing to do," Butcher said. Board members emphasized that the K‑8 rules would not change.
Staff and board members repeatedly stressed that existing individualized education plans and 504 plans remain controlling. "Anything that's part of an IEP always trumps a school board policy," Kim (special education staff member) told the board when asked about accommodations.
Administrators said the high school will finalize procedures, including how classrooms will house devices and how repeat offenders will be handled in line with the district handbook and discipline policy JG. Board members noted the district may purchase classroom phone/device holders to support the change if the high‑school staff indicate they are ready to implement it in coming weeks.
Board members expressed support but also cautioned that consistent enforcement by teachers and administrators will be essential. The item is a first reading; the board indicated it expects the policy and related procedural language to return for formal approval after administrators complete handbook and enforcement details.
