Saint Paul staff present second reading of districtwide cell‑phone policy; third reading set for Feb. 18

Summary

District staff presented a second reading of Policy 550 on Jan. 21 and summarized staff and student focus‑group input. The policy would create a districtwide standard, account for transition programs, and require annual review of any modified school plans; the board will consider adoption at the third reading on Feb. 18.

Saint Paul Public Schools staff brought a second reading of a districtwide policy on cell phones and personal electronic devices to the board on Jan. 21, summarizing staff and student focus‑group feedback and recommending language to balance consistency, equity and classroom management.

"On the front end I do want to share, as we as I have had, continuing conversations with community members, 1 thing that did come up recently is, a mistake in the engagement information that you have," said Jody Danielson, director of teaching and learning, correcting a published engagement item and previewing the policy discussion.

District staff told the board the policy is required under a Minnesota directive that districts adopt a district‑wide approach to personal devices and noted that research shows devices can impair student attention and learning. Danielson said the policy defines…

Saint Paul staff present second reading of districtwide cell‑phone policy; third reading set for Feb. 18

Summary

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