Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Student Discipline topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board urges clearer handbook language and consistent enforcement on student device use
Summary
Following public comment and staff input, the board directed administration to revise handbook and policy language on student device use—K–5 no-use suggestions and clearer middle/high school guidance—emphasizing consistent enforcement and teacher support; revised handbooks will return to the board for approval in July.
A sustained discussion about student device use led the Pulaski School Board to ask administration and teacher teams to tighten handbook language and work on consistent enforcement across buildings.
Spencer Carls, speaking for the Pulaski Education Association, asked the board to "look at cell phone language in the handbook to address a concern that...has a growing impact on the academic environment and overall student well-being," and suggested clearer no-use zones, defined times and consistent procedures for violations.
Board member Dennis (who requested the agenda item) proposed separate handbook language for elementary (K–5) — no cell‑phone use during the school day, powered off and kept in a backpack or locker — and asked administration to draft a version for board review. Several board members and staff said the district already has language in handbooks and policies but that enforcement varies between buildings; multiple speakers recommended simpler, clearer wording and consistent follow-through at the building level so teachers do not bear disproportionate enforcement burdens.
Staff noted past local tactics (phone caddies, locked storage, and classroom procedures) that have worked in some buildings and recommended engaging teachers in drafting practical enforcement approaches. Public commenters urged inclusion of smartwatches and other devices in the language and framed parental responsibility as a related issue.
Administration said handbook revisions will be part of the annual handbook review process and that the board is scheduled to approve handbook revisions in July. The board directed administration and staff teams to revise handbook language, consult with teachers and return a proposed handbook for board consideration with enforcement guidance.
