Kinnelon board weighs stricter cell-phone rules and ID lanyards; parents urged to join policy talks

Board members and administration used the Aug. 27 meeting to discuss possible tightening of the district’s cell-phone policies, extending identification-lanyard use for younger grades and related technology questions, and invited parent engagement ahead of any formal policy changes.

Superintendent Mr mango and board members described steps already taken — shutting down Wi‑Fi in targeted situations last year and limiting use during lunch — and said they want greater consistency and community buy-in if the district tightens rules. At the high school, Mr mango said the plan will require phones to be kept in lockers unless needed for instruction; administrators will test implementation and address classroom issues as they arise.

Board members also discussed extending ID lanyards to K–5. A member noted the policy was added last year but not implemented for younger grades; the board described the approach as an administrative security measure rather than a new policy needing formal adoption. Board members said teachers would manage day‑to‑day use and that the district will monitor any disruptions.

Several public commenters urged early parent involvement. Regina Scalla, a parent-educator, told the board she wants parents included in policy development and volunteered to organize interested parents. The board pointed to a parent Tech Symposium scheduled for Monday, Sept. 23 at 7 p.m., which will include a live or streamed presentation by Lauren Morello from the Well‑Being Therapy Center and a demonstration of the Varsity Tutors service that will be available on student Chromebooks.

The board encouraged community feedback through the board email address and committee meetings before considering formal district-wide rules.