Horry County Schools previews draft cellphone/device policy tied to state directive, board asks for clear effective date

A district staff presenter identified in the transcript as "Mr. Generate" briefed the school board on a draft personal electronic device policy prepared in response to General Assembly proviso 1.103 and the State Board of Education’s model policy. The presenter said the state guidance and proviso require districts to implement a policy beginning January 2025 and that the district produced a draft after consulting principals across grade levels.

"We have compiled the information, and we have it in draft form, for you to consider, not tonight, but at your upcoming meeting," the presenter said, noting the state toolkit is intended to guide implementation in January 2025. The draft embeds exceptions for students with individualized education programs (IEP) or 504 accommodation plans, allows for medical‑device use (for example, glucose monitors), and contemplates principal‑approved instructional uses. Staff emphasized plans for a communications campaign to notify families and students ahead of implementation.

Board members pressed staff for a specific effective date and for strong family outreach. Neil James requested a firm effective date (suggesting a mid‑January or second‑semester start date), and Janet Graham asked that the district make a public communications effort and consider a 'blitz' to educate families. The presenter said staff would double‑check timing and preferred a second‑semester start point or mid‑January implementation as feasible. Several board members reiterated that parents need time to understand the consequences in the disciplinary steps (for example, parents picking up confiscated phones).

The board did not vote on the draft; staff indicated it will return for consideration at a future meeting with a proposed effective date and communications plan.