Tigard-Tualatin board holds first read of state-driven ban on student personal devices; handbook update to follow

Chair Zerschmid, presiding over the Tigard-Tualatin School District 23J Board of Directors, led a first reading Tuesday of a new policy to implement a statewide "bell-to-bell" restriction on personal electronic devices in schools, saying the governor27s executive order requires districts to adopt a rule that specifies how phones and similar devices must be stored during the school day.

The board was presented with a draft that would require personal electronic devices to be stored in backpacks, lockers or small bags ("not in your person") from the start bell until dismissal, with limited exceptions for medical needs and individualized education program (IEP) or Section 504 accommodations. Superintendent-level staff and administrators told the board they are drafting an accompanying administrative regulation and updates to the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook to align with the policy.

Why it matters: The governor issued an executive order on July 2 directing Oregon school districts to prohibit student access to cell phones during instructional hours. The change, board members said, will affect classroom management, student privacy concerns and families who rely on phones for contact during commutes. The district intends to finalize policy language before the start of school so expectations are clear for staff, students and parents.

Board discussion and planning

Director Reed, who…