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Board discusses tightening personal device policy; plans formal revision after first reading
Summary
Board members debated clarifying when privately owned phones and other personal communication devices may be used during instructional time and referenced pending state legislation (AB 2); a rescinded motion means the board will return with formal policy language at a later meeting.
The Sparta Area School District Board of Education on April 14 opened a first reading and wide discussion of proposed revisions to Policy 51‑36, governing personal communication devices (PCDs) in school.
Board member Miss Lopez outlined specific suggested language to tighten the policy, including the sentence she proposed: “The use of privately owned PCDs at any other time is prohibited and must be stored out of sight.” She also suggested replacing a current clause to read, in part: “During instructional or classroom time, only district‑issued PCDs may be permitted for instructional purposes, taking notes, etc., as approved by the classroom teacher or building principal.” Lopez noted that upcoming state legislation, referenced in the meeting as “AB 2,” could require boards to preserve exceptions for emergencies and for students with IEPs or Section 504 plans.
Board members discussed edge cases such as study hall, substitute teachers, and college‑level courses that rely on student devices for lengthy work. Mr. McKenna and Mr. Russ asked whether “instructional time” should be defined; McKenna said it meant “receiving instruction.” Some board members said building principals could allow exceptions for specified classroom needs, while others urged a clear, districtwide standard that limits use to district devices during instruction.
Lopez initially moved to adopt her suggested revisions but then rescinded the motion during the meeting so staff could circulate formal revised language. Mr. Russ said he would prepare a revised policy draft and present it at a future meeting; if adopted it would take effect for the 2025–26 school year and buildings could adopt stricter local rules if they wished.
The board did not vote on a final policy. Administrators and board members agreed to gather feedback from administration and return with formal language for a subsequent reading.
