Douglas Unified board adopts device policy, approves budget and multiple personnel and school‑finance items

The Douglas Unified School District governing board approved the second reading of a technology/device policy that restricts cell phones and similar electronic devices at school, adopted the fiscal year 2025–26 district expenditure budget as presented, and recorded multiple routine personnel and school‑finance decisions during a special meeting.

Device policy adopted

On second reading, the board approved a policy that requires cell phones to be turned off prior to entering campus, with an exception for students who have a documented medical need approved by school administration and supported by a licensed health provider. The policy makes clear that “smartwatches” and other wearable devices can be treated as devices subject to confiscation if they are used to communicate during restricted times. Miss Samaniego (district administrator) said the policy will be shared with families and that schools will use a signed acknowledgement form in registration packets. Building principals at elementary and middle schools described established enforcement practices, with principals noting warnings and parent pickup as usual steps and emphasizing administrative discretion to avoid suspensions where possible.

Budget adoption

The board adopted…