Henniker board adopts state-mandated ban on personal communication devices

The Henniker School Board on Oct. 25 adopted policy JICJ, aligning district rules with a state law that restricts personal communication devices during the school day.

The board discussed the policy after a public comment from Jenn, a Henniker teacher and parent, who said she supports a bell-to-bell ban on phones and similar devices. "It's low key so refreshing. I'm not on my phone from 8 to 5," Jenn told the board, adding that she has seen stronger in-person connections among students since her district limited devices. "As a parent, I understand that there are concerns that we want to be in touch with our kids... but that can be so distracting to what needs to be happening during an emergency," she said.

Board members framed the policy as adoption of state guidance and not an independent change in district discretion. During discussion, members noted the law tightly constrains local options; the board sought advice from the School Board Association and its legal counsel while drafting the district policy. The policy text includes standard exceptions for medical or individualized education needs; the board said accommodations in 504 or medical plans will remain in place.

Supporters at the meeting argued device limits reduce distractions and encourage student-to-student interaction and participation. Several board members said staff will work to communicate the new rules and exceptions clearly to families and students. One board member suggested sharing teacher perspectives — like Jenn’s — in communications to help explain the district’s decision.

The board voted by voice to adopt JICJ; the motion passed with unanimous ayes. The policy will be posted to the district policy page and reflected in future student handbooks and procedures.

The board also noted related communications the district had received, including emails both supporting and opposing smartwatch and smartwatch‑equivalent device treatment under the new law. Officials said the district will follow statutory language and state guidance in applying the rule.

Short-term next steps noted by the board include publishing the updated policy to the website, updating the student handbook procedures to match the board-adopted policy, and ensuring staff know how to process exception requests tied to health or 504 plans.

Votes and further policy adoptions were handled later in the meeting; a separate votes summary lists those actions.