Plymouth board reviews new state ban on phones during instructional time, plans policy update

Superintendent Scott Steer said the state recently passed a law restricting student cell-phone use during instructional time and that the district will study the detailed guidance before proposing policy changes to the board in spring or summer 2026. He told board members the law focuses on defining "instructional" versus "non-instructional" time and that additional secondary legislation could clarify 'bell-to-bell' expectations for lunch, passing time and similar periods.

Board members and staff asked for specifics about the effective date and enforcement timetable. Steer said a policy update would need to be finalized in advance of September 2026 to align with handbook approvals. He contrasted the new law with the district’s current approach, which leaves classroom phone enforcement largely to individual teachers’ discretion and classroom rules (for example, teachers sometimes provide pockets on doors for students to deposit phones).

During public comment, resident Jerry urged a strong local response, citing research he said links phone use to student anxiety and other mental-health concerns. Board members acknowledged the concerns and said further discussion would be needed about classroom tools, student access to devices and family communication plans.

The board did not take a formal vote on a policy change during the meeting; members directed staff to monitor rulemaking, bring clarifying language to the district handbook process, and present recommended updates to the board for approval prior to the fall 2026 implementation window.