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Policy committee advances revised student personal electronic device rules for first reading April 27
Summary
The policy committee recommended the revised Policy 237 (personal electronic devices) for a first reading on April 27; revisions clarify assistive‑technology protections, allow devices for grades 9–12 during lunch and passing time, and tighten confiscation and exception language relating to IEPs and safety.
The Hatboro‑Horsham policy committee on April 13 advanced revisions to Policy 237 governing student personal electronic devices and recommended the changes for a first reading at the April 27 board meeting.
Dr. D'Angelo reviewed edits that add a comprehensive assistive‑technology definition, clarify the policy’s scope, and remove redundant language. A key change allows students in grades 9–12 to use personal electronic devices during lunch and passing time, while restating that devices must be turned off during instructional time, including study halls and supervised academic activity. Dr. D'Angelo said exceptions in the policy now explicitly reference IEPs, 504 service agreements and documented health plans, and the policy clarifies parameters around confiscation for safety or well‑being concerns.
Board members asked whether the policy applies to school‑sponsored events outside normal instructional hours, how the district will practically collect and secure devices during transitions, and how parents can reach students if phones are restricted during the day. Dr. D'Angelo and other administrators said they consulted with students, HSAs, principals and parent groups, and that the policy would be implemented at the start of next school year with intensified communication to families. The committee voted to forward the revised policy for a first reading on April 27.
