Central SD 13J holds first reading of state-mandated personal electronic device policy

Central SD 13J board members received a first reading of proposed Policy JFCEB, the district’s response to a state requirement that restricts student use of personal electronic devices during instructional hours.

Superintendent Jen said the draft policy would prohibit student use of personal electronic devices—from the start to the end of regular instructional hours—unless an exemption applies. "When can they be used?" she asked rhetorically and then outlined three exemption paths in the draft: a medical provider’s order for care, accommodations tied to a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 plan under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and a written administrative exemption request that the district is still defining. The administrative rule establishing the exemption process is under development; the superintendent said administrators will respond to exemption requests within 30 days once procedures are finalized.

The policy draft allows students to keep devices in lockers, backpacks or on their person but not to use them during instructional time. Teachers may authorize limited, instructional use during class (for example, a 20-minute activity) and then require devices be put away. The superintendent said the district considered but is not pursuing an expensive device-management infrastructure because the low-cost options the district explored would require nearly a $100,000–$200,000 investment that the district does not have.

Disciplinary responses for violations will be progressive, the superintendent said, and guardians may contact schools via the office for urgent communications during the day; that process will remain unchanged. The draft timeline calls for the board to adopt the policy no later than Oct. 31 and for implementation to begin no later than Jan. 1, subject to state guidance changes.

District leaders said they will seek feedback from bargaining units (CEA and OSEA Chapter 124), staff newsletters, a Google form for caregivers and multiple student meetings, including student council and leadership groups at middle and high schools. Student representative Hannah said student pushback is expected but advised that explaining the why behind the policy will help. Board member Melanie and others said teachers and some buildings have already limited phone use and reported increased student social interaction and classroom engagement in districts that have restricted phones.

Administrators acknowledged implementation complexities, particularly around exceptions for medical needs and protecting student privacy. The superintendent said staff will emphasize education and peer-to-peer understanding so students do not single out classmates with exemptions.

The board did not adopt the policy at the meeting; the item was a first reading and the district plans further stakeholder input before a final vote.