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Othello board discusses districtwide cell-phone policy, weighs staff inclusion and union input
Summary
Board members discussed forming a districtwide cell-phone policy modeled on Ferndale's approach, with calls to include staff and volunteers, involve unions (OEA, PSE), update a 2010 telecommunications policy, and form a principals-led work group to recommend enforcement and discipline procedures.
Board members discussed whether to adopt a districtwide cell-phone policy after a presentation the board attended at WASDA that showcased Ferndale's approach. Board President Lindsay Prowse said a district-level policy "carries a little more weight" than site-by-site rules and noted successful adoption requires buy-in from administrators, staff and students.
A board member suggested the policy should apply equally to staff and volunteers, not just students, so expectations are consistent. Director Aaron Gerber asked about current staff policy and said the district's telecommunications policy dates to 2010 and references pagers and beepers, indicating it needs updating. Perez (superintendent) proposed talking with principals and labor partners (OEA, PSE) and forming a work group to draft recommended procedures and progressive-discipline steps for the board to consider.
Board members raised operational concerns including enforcement at different grade spans (K–6 vs. 7–12), devices such as smartwatches, and the need for communication to secure staff buy-in. No formal motion or vote was taken; directors directed staff to consult principals and labor partners and return with recommendations.
