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Preston County board delays enforcement plan for student cell phones after wide-ranging debate
Summary
Trustees postponed a first reading of a revised student personal‑device policy after extended debate over where devices must be stored, whether between‑class checks are allowed, and enforcement. The policy will return July 29 with school‑level storage procedures and legal review.
Preston County Board of Education trustees on July 14 postponed a proposed revision to the district’s student personal electronic device policy after a lengthy discussion about how and when phones should be stored and enforced.
The revision, prompted by new state law and West Virginia Board of Education guidance, would require devices to be powered off during instructional time — which the district defines to include transitions between classes — and allows limited use at lunch or recess. Superintendent Martin said the language was aimed at reducing distractions and bringing local rules into compliance with state policy 4374 and House Bill 2003.
Board members, principals and staff debated operational details for more than an hour. Mr. Seymour, a high‑school principal, said classrooms need a clear, enforceable approach. “What we want to see is it’s turned off in their backpack. If that’s not possible, a wall hanger or pouch that’s numbered,” he said. He also urged rules that minimize officers chasing infractions in hallways.
Several board members pushed for stronger clarity about the instructional day and how storage is documented. Mr. Tam asked for a single, easy‑to‑explain rule: “From first bell to last bell, excluding lunch, phone is off.” Other members said enforcement should be consistent across classrooms and noted the state requires discipline entries for infractions be recorded in WEAS.
Administrators said storage solutions will vary by school type — for example, elementary classrooms that do not change rooms need different approaches than a large high school — and requested the board allow schools to choose from approved storage options (backpack‑out‑of‑sight, numbered pouches, office lockboxes). The superintendent agreed to consult district counsel on whether the policy must list specific storage methods or may delegate selection to building administrators.
The board voted to postpone action to its July 29 meeting to allow principals to recommend storage options, for legal review, and so the district can prepare communications to families and staff. Trustee Mr. Kisner said the district must also track any medical or IEP/504 exceptions centrally and report anonymized counts to the board.
The motion to postpone passed by voice vote; the policy will be reworked for first reading on July 29, with administrators asked to propose practical storage plans for their buildings.
