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Board approves phone-pouch program for middle schools; high school expansion fails
Summary
After extended discussion, the board authorized phone-pouch storage programs for both Easton Middle School and St. Michael's Middle School for the coming year but voted down an amendment to add both high schools. Members asked for a follow-up with data points the board would like tracked.
The Talbot County Board of Education voted Wednesday to continue and expand a phone-pouch program for middle-school students, extending a program already used at Easton Middle School to St. Michael's Middle School. An amendment to extend the pouches to both high schools failed in a roll-call vote.
Program details: Board materials and staff said pouches cost roughly $27 each; staff estimated the total cost to expand middle-school implementation would be modest (several thousand dollars) because many pouches can be reused. Presenters said Easton Middle School reported positive results with reduced classroom interruptions and improved student behavior.
Board debate: Several members argued for gradual implementation focused on middle grades to change behavior earlier and create continuity; some board members and student representatives cautioned that high schoolers' maturity levels and responsibilities (jobs, caregiving) complicate a universal pouch requirement. Students on the board said high-school rollout could trigger backlash from older students and advised caution.
Formal action: The board voted to expand the pouch program to include St. Michael's Middle School and continue at Easton Middle School for all middle grades. A separate amendment to extend the policy to all high-school students failed on roll-call. The middle-school expansion passed unanimously on roll-call.
Follow-up and data: Board members requested that staff return with clear data points to track (behavior incidents, attendance, academic measures) for the pilot cohort so the board can assess longer-term expansion to other grades.
Ending: Board members said the topic will return for updates; the board asked for a data plan to be included in future reports.
