The Salem School board on July 29 reviewed a new state requirement that bans student use of personal communication devices during the school day and agreed to post a public hearing and return the item for a second reading before final adoption. The policy, drafted with input from the New Hampshire School Boards Association and the district attorney, would prohibit cell phones, smartwatches, tablets and other personal communication devices “bell to bell,” while allowing school-issued devices for instruction.

The board’s discussion centered on implementation, exceptions and outreach. “This policy truly reflects what the law is dictating,” Superintendent Laura Palmer said, adding the district plans layered messaging to families and staff and handbook language spelling out consequences. Vice Chairman Bernard Campbell urged a formal public hearing before the second reading: “My suggestion is that we post a public hearing for the second reading,” Campbell said, and the board agreed to place the item on the next meeting agenda with a posted public hearing for input.

Board members and administrators discussed how the district will handle exceptions — for example, medical needs — and whether medical documentation will be required for an exception. Administrators told the board documented medical exemptions would be necessary; Palmer said those details and discipline procedures will be set out in school handbooks rather than in the policy text. The ban will not apply to district-issued Chromebooks used for instruction.

The board also stressed consistent enforcement across staff and schools. “There has to be some disciplinary actions for staff if they don't follow it,” a board member said; administrators confirmed principals, deans and assistant principals are preparing handbook language and staff training for the start of the school year. The board agreed to post the proposed policy, invite written comments in advance of the next meeting, hold a public hearing at that meeting and then consider the policy again for final action.

The board did not vote to adopt the policy on July 29; administrators will circulate the proposed language, solicit feedback in advance of the next meeting and return the policy for a second reading and vote.

The administration said targeted outreach to parents will begin the week after the meeting, with additional messages from building principals and secondary-school deans in August ahead of the school opening.