Board adopts stricter minimum rules for student cell‑device use during instruction

The board reviewed and adopted revisions to the district’s cell‑device policy (item 17B2), which set minimum expectations for student use of phones and other communication devices during instruction and allowed individual school sites to implement stricter rules.

Staff explained the amended policy clarifies that devices are not to be used during teaching time and that schools may adopt site‑level rules that are more restrictive, including storing devices in backpacks if a site chooses.

In discussion, trustees noted circumstances where teachers may legitimately use devices for translation or instruction and said technology staff had identified ways to reduce reliance on personal phones. A board member said limiting students’ physical access to phones during class was a preferred approach if it could be implemented without high cost.

The board took a voice vote to approve the policy. No roll‑call vote details were provided in the transcript; staff indicated the policy would be circulated to sites for implementation guidance.

Next steps: The district will provide guidance to sites on implementation and technology alternatives to reduce instructional dependence on personal phones.