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Resident urges limits on student cell phones; board says it is awaiting state guidance
Summary
A Wilson Central resident warned that student cell phones are distracting and urged restrictions; Superintendent Tim Carter said elementary students are expected to keep phones in lockers, high school use is teacher-directed, and the district is watching for guidance from the governor and State Education Department.
During the public forum at the Sept. 10 Wilson Central School District board meeting, resident June Ben expressed frustration about student cell‑phone use and asked the board to take action.
"I understand adding phones to schools... it is the distraction," June Ben said, adding that the issue drives parents and teachers "crazy." Superintendent Tim Carter responded that elementary students are expected to keep phones in lockers and that high school phone use is typically teacher‑directed; he also acknowledged that some students do not follow rules. "I'm guessing, before the holiday season, we're gonna get our... a blanket statement from the governor's office," Carter said, indicating the district is monitoring potential statewide guidance from the governor and the State Education Department.
Board members and staff noted the issue is divisive among parents and teachers and that local practice varies by grade level. Carter said he prefers a cautious approach rather than implementing local policies immediately, and urged the board to watch for state direction before making districtwide changes.
The board did not take formal action at the meeting on cell‑phone policy; public comment concluded with the board thanking the resident for raising the concern. Further discussion of any local policy change would require agenda placement and a formal vote at a future meeting.
