Unionville-Chadds Ford work session features extensive debate on proposed personal electronic device policy

Community members, staff and student representatives delivered extended remarks and the school board engaged in detailed discussion during the May 12 work session over a proposed revision to Policy 2.37 on personal electronic devices (PEDs) in Unionville-Chadds Ford classrooms.

More than half a dozen parents and educators addressed the board during public comment, urging stronger restrictions — including "bell-to-bell" bans and rules that devices not be carried on students' bodies during school hours. Speakers cited district survey results and national research they said link in-school device use to distraction and harms to student mental health. Several commenters — including a psychiatrist and a teacher who served on the policy committee — asked the board to consider removing PEDs from students' possession and to explore a phased approach for older students.

Board members discussed options that would tighten enforcement at middle school levels. Multiple directors said the principal enforcement challenge is inconsistent classroom practice and recommended removing teacher-by-teacher discretion for middle school and making devices stored out of sight (for example, in lockers or backpacks) during school hours. Several board members said they support piloting clearer controls at middle school, accompanied by regular reporting and continuation of committee work.

Student representatives spoke as well, offering mixed reactions: some high school students favored limited phone access in some school spaces and cautioned about abrupt, overnight policy shifts; others described personal experiences that supported reduced phone dependence. Board members said student voices were influential in their thinking and discussed a possible graduated approach for high school — stricter limits for ninth- and tenth-graders, and more flexibility for upperclassmen — while acknowledging logistical and enforcement challenges.

Policy 2.37 was on second reading at the May 12 meeting. Administrators said the draft includes a new definition of the school day, language to protect instructional access without requiring student-owned devices, and other changes. Board members directed staff to incorporate public feedback — including clarifying that devices be turned off and stored at middle school — and to return with revised language for further consideration and a planned vote in June.