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Students discuss district phone challenge as Lodi Unified outlines steps to implement AB 3216 and enforce policy 5.131
Summary
District staff presented plans to implement Assembly Bill 3216 and enforce board policy 5.131; student leaders described a weeklong challenge that reduced screen time and increased engagement, and staff said site teams will develop local enforcement and communication plans.
District staff presented an update on implementing Assembly Bill 3216 and enforcing existing board policy 5.131 on device use during instructional time. The presentation emphasized student input and a district‑wide pilot challenge led by student leaders.
"This policy exists in board policy 5,131," a staff presenter said, and noted AB 3216 was signed in 2024 by the governor. The stated implementation approach prioritized student leadership, site teams and communication over the third quarter and into the summer.
Student ASB president Rafael Aceron said a weeklong district challenge reduced his daily screen time from about five hours to about an hour and a half and improved sleep and engagement. "Cutting down on screen time gave me more time to focus on the world around me," he said. Another student, Lexi Thor, described how peer support reduced the fear of missing out and helped students be present during the challenge. "Having that support system made it worthwhile," she said. Margaret Machado acknowledged the challenge was harder than she expected but said peer support helped her succeed.
Staff said they produced a video of the challenge and plan to distribute communications to teachers and families; they will work with principals in fourth quarter to agree on consistent discipline and interventions at school sites. When asked about consequences for students or staff who do not comply, staff said that will be part of the site‑level work and will align with existing disciplinary procedures, and noted exemptions for essential health devices per physician recommendation.
Board members and presenters discussed the importance of consistent enforcement across sites and including parents and teachers in communication and rollout. Several board members praised student involvement and urged careful community outreach to ensure consistent application across schools.
