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Board adopts districtwide "off and away" phone policy after extended debate and student testimony
Summary
The Portland Public Schools board adopted a policy requiring personal electronic devices to be "off and away" during instructional time. The vote was 5–2 after several hours of comment from students, teachers, parents and board members about safety, equity, enforcement and cost.
The Portland Public Schools Board of Education voted 5–2 on Jan. 7 to adopt a districtwide policy that will require students to keep personal electronic devices "off and away" during instructional time. The decision followed months of committee work, a district student survey with more than 2,100 responses and hours of public comment during the meeting.
Supporters — including several board members and district staff — said the policy reduces classroom distractions and supports teaching and learning. Board members who voted in favor cited data presented from other districts showing declines in disruptive conduct and improved student…
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