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School board adopts stricter student-device policy, with exceptions for IEPs and medical needs
Summary
The board voted 4–0 to adopt revised policy JZK tightening limits on student-owned electronic devices; members said the change aims to reduce classroom distractions and preserve academic environment, and staff will implement documented exceptions for IEPs and medical needs.
Rockingham County’s school board voted to adopt a stricter policy on student-owned electronic devices at its Aug. 12 meeting, saying the measure is intended to reduce classroom distractions and improve the academic environment.
Miss Hurst said the policy provides ‘‘seven hours of cell-phone-free time’’ during the school day and described the change as a ‘‘gift’’ to teachers and students. Several board members, including Miss Cave and Miss Burgoyne, supported the policy and emphasized that documented exceptions for students with IEPs or medical needs will be honored. Miss Burgoyne said administrators will be ‘‘very lenient and accommodating’’ for students who require devices for safety or documented educational reasons.
Board discussion referenced prior work sessions and research concerns about screen time; Dr. Shiflett and principals were described as preparing to carry out the policy at the start of the year. The board voted 4–0 to adopt policy JZK as presented.
What’s next: District staff will communicate implementation details, track accommodation needs for students with IEPs or medical conditions, and launch an ‘‘Away for the Day’’ campaign to explain the new expectations to families and students.
