Brevard school board approves stricter wireless-device rule for students, 4-1

The Brevard Public Schools Board of Education on Tuesday approved a new district policy that prohibits students from using personal wireless communication devices, including cell phones, tablets and personal laptops, during the school day, passing the measure 4-1.

The policy, identified in board materials as a revision to policy 5136, was approved after a lengthy public comment period and more than an hour of board discussion. Board member Mr. Thomas voted yes, board member Miss Campbell voted no, Mr. Trent and Mr. Susan voted yes and Miss Wright voted yes.

Supporters of a broad ban said limiting devices during bell-to-bell instructional time will reduce distractions and improve classroom focus. “The kids are actually talking,” said Mr. Susan during the board discussion, describing feedback from school administrators after the policy was piloted at some sites. He added that some cafeterias were “the loudest that they’ve ever had a lunch period, because the kids were actually talking.”

Opponents, including students, parents and teachers, urged the board to narrow the policy or preserve…