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Student survey drives committee discussion on state "bell-to-bell" device ban and laptop exceptions
Summary
Committee heard a Memorial student'member summary of a survey showing student support for the phone ban's purpose but concerns about bans during non-instructional time and Chromebook filters. Members discussed asking the legislature for an "authorized academic use" exception for laptops and scheduled staff to present outreach data in early October.
The Manchester Education Legislation Committee discussed implementation of the new state-wide "bell-to-bell" personal electronic device policy and whether it unintentionally prohibits laptops used for instruction. Student member (Speaker 3) reported a Memorial survey in which "many of the students...understand, like, the purpose behind it and think it was fair enough," but said students questioned why devices are banned during lunchtime or study periods and complained that Chromebooks block useful educational websites.
Committee members and staff raised concerns about the policy's broad definition of "personal electronic device," citing smart watches and other connected devices that can also communicate. Speaker 1 suggested an exception for "authorized academic use" of laptops for research and writing, but cautioned that computers can be used for texting and calling and that enforcement is technically complex.
Speaker 5 encouraged keeping the committee's advocacy focused at the state level while allowing local discretion where appropriate. Staff (Speaker 3) said the administration will present a report in early October that summarizes committee-level talking points and the planned three tiers of outreach: building-level parent groups, ward-based board meetings and all-district forums.
Next steps: staff will present in early October with compiled committee talking points and outreach plans; the committee may consider sending a letter to state policymakers requesting clarification or a narrowly tailored laptop exception for "authorized academic use."
