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Board reviews handbook revisions: middle‑school phones to lockers, high‑school phone policy narrowed to passing periods
Summary
The board reviewed proposed handbook changes that would require middle‑school students to keep phones in lockers and restrict high‑school phone use to passing periods; the elementary handbook also adds a discipline matrix. The board will take action June 9.
The Derby Board of Education reviewed proposed changes to elementary, middle and high‑school handbooks, including new discipline language and a revised approach to student electronic devices.
Assistant Superintendent Becky Mader outlined recommended edits. At the middle‑school level the change would move phones from backpacks to lockers. For Derby High School the proposal would allow personal electronic devices only during passing periods; a brief board debate considered whether to allow devices during lunch as well.
Gretchen Pontius, Derby High School principal, told the board the plan tightens classroom access (devices prohibited in class) and limits use to passing windows to reduce in‑class distractions. Pontius said a data review found sophomore year historically shows the highest offense rates and that administrators will focus supports on that cohort.
Board members and administrators discussed social‑emotional impacts and practical enforcement steps. Several board members argued passing‑period access balances classroom focus and students’ need to check messages between classes; others cautioned the rule could push more phone use into bathrooms or increase student anxiety during lunch. Administrators said they will train staff and provide supports for students who struggle with the change, and that building leadership will plan implementation over the summer.
The elementary handbook includes a newly drafted discipline matrix and a partner‑practice initiative intended to reduce classroom disruptions while keeping students in school through an increased use of in‑school suspension where appropriate. Mader said the board will vote on the handbook changes at its June 9 meeting and monitor outcomes.
