Board adopts personal‑electronic‑device policy; elementary and middle rules defined, high‑school guidance protects instructional time

The Shawnee Mission Board of Education approved a new policy restricting possession and use of personal electronic devices during the school day and updated student handbooks to reflect the change. The policy (JCDC) passed 6–1 after extended discussion; the board approved revised elementary, middle and high school handbooks unanimously.

Policy specifics and votes: The Board adopted policy JCDC, titled “Restrictions on possession and use of personal electronic devices,” by a 6–1 vote. Board member David Westbrook announced he would abstain from the final vote and said he remained unconvinced the policy was the right approach: “I can’t be enthusiastic about this proposal,” Westbrook said. The revised student handbooks that reflect the policy were approved 7–0.

What the policy requires: Superintendent Dr. Schumacher summarized age‑specific rules recommended by an action team and endorsed by the administration. For elementary…