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Board hears first reading of districtwide mobile device policy that would bar phones for K —
Summary
The Los Alamitos Unified School District presented a first reading of a new mobile-communication-device policy: PK — students would not be permitted to use devices on campus; grades 9 —2 students may possess devices but cannot use them during instructional time; exemptions include IEP/504 or medical need. The board directed staff to develop site-level implementation guidance and communication plans.
District staff presented the first reading of a new board policy (BP 5131.8) to limit mobile-communication-device use on campus. The policy's stated purpose is to "promote a respectful, distraction-free and connected learning environment," and it cites research and state guidance that supports restricting student device use during instructional time.
Key policy provisions presented by staff:
- Students in preschool through grade 8 may not use mobile communication devices on campus during school-related activities; devices must be turned off and stored out of sight. - Students in grades 9 —2 may possess devices but may not use them during instructional time; non-instructional time (lunch, passing periods, before/after school) is subject to site rules. - The policy prohibits device use in restrooms, locker rooms and dressing areas and forbids unauthorized sharing of photos, videos, or recordings that violate others' privacy. - Exemptions are available for medical necessity, for students with IEPs or 504 plans, and for staff-granted, limited instructional exceptions (for example, a school yearbook student photographing an event with permission).
Board members discussed implementation details and communications for families and staff, including the need to document exceptions and to rehearse consistent site-level enforcement protocols. Staff said administrators and the district's public-information officer will lead a rollout and communications plan prior to full implementation; a formal second reading and possible adoption will be scheduled at a subsequent meeting.
The board did not take a final vote on the policy at the first reading; members expressed support for a clear districtwide standard and asked staff to prepare implementation guidance for elementary, middle and high schools.
