Students report positive response to phone restrictions; activities and sports start strong

Student representatives and school leaders reported early impressions of the new executive‑order cell‑phone policy and summarized fall extracurricular activity participation.

Student board members from South Albany and West Albany told the board they have observed more student engagement and social interaction after the district implemented the phone‑use restrictions in classrooms and commons areas. High‑school staff and principals told the superintendent they were broadly supportive and have seen students participating together more frequently at lunches and assemblies.

Extracurriculars and athletics: The students also provided brief updates on athletics and performing arts: several fall teams reported winning records early in the season and band and choir concerts were scheduled for October. Theater programs are preparing fall productions with rehearsals underway.

Why it matters: The district said the cell‑phone policy was adopted early in the year to improve instructional time and reduce distracted behaviors in cafeterias and assemblies. Staff and student anecdotes at the meeting suggested an initial positive response, particularly in high schools.

Next steps: The superintendent and principals will continue to monitor the policy’s impact and report back to the board. The board asked for continued updates linking policy outcomes to student engagement and academic indicators.