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Board debates mobile-device policy; student voice shapes proposed changes
Summary
Trustees conducted a first reading of BP 5131.8 on mobile communication devices, directing edits to emphasize minimizing disruption, add 'out of sight' expectations, and exempt locker rooms/restrooms; staff will draft administrative regulations and return for a second reading.
The Washington Unified School District board spent substantial time on a first reading of proposed policy BP 5131.8, which would set districtwide rules for student use of smartphones and other mobile devices. The draft divides expectations by grade bands (TK–5, 6–8, 9–12) and permits limited noninstructional use for high-school students while restricting use during instructional time.
Trustees, staff and student representatives discussed several practical concerns: how to handle passing periods, teacher-by-teacher inconsistencies, students— anxiety over being separated from phones, and enforcement logistics such as confiscation and progressive discipline. Multiple trustees urged adding a clear requirement that devices be silenced and kept out of sight during instructional time (e.g., in a backpack or back pocket) and to explicitly prohibit device use in bathrooms and locker rooms for privacy and anti-bullying reasons. Board members also recommended a two-week "front-loading" period of communication and training before any penalties take effect.
Directives and next steps: staff will revise the policy language to lead with minimizing distractions, add out-of-sight language, include locker-room/bathroom exceptions for grades 9–12, and draft administrative regulations detailing consequences and implementation timelines. The second read and possible adoption is scheduled for the next meeting.
Context: the policy review incorporated student feedback from recent youth-engagement events; students asked for consistent adult explanation of rules and graduated approaches by age group.
What—s next: staff will produce an updated policy redline and draft administrative regulations for the board—s second reading.
