Poway Unified takes first step toward stricter student mobile‑device rules; board asks for implementation plan

The Poway Unified School District board heard the first reading of an updated mobile communication devices policy that would bar smartphones and similar devices at elementary and middle school sites while on campus and prohibit their use during instructional time at high schools.

Superintendent Dr. Churchill summarized the draft policy: at elementary and middle levels students would not use smartphones, smartwatches or similar devices while on campus or under staff supervision; at high schools, devices would be banned during instructional time but allowed during non‑instructional periods subject to school rules.

Board members and students pressed staff for implementation details. Board member Chang said implementation will feel "very personal" for students and staff and asked how the district will enforce rules so the burden does not fall unfairly on teachers. "Does it mean it needs to be powered off completely? Does it mean it needs to be put away?" he asked.

Miss Fan, the student board member, urged consistent enforcement across sites and regular check‑ins to prevent a policy from “fizzling out” after initial rollout. Several trustees and staff discussed phone‑locker models and the liability risk if schools store devices during the day.

Dr. Churchill said the district intends to return for a second reading with more detail on enforcement and an implementation timeline. He also noted the policy language would state the district is not liable for lost, stolen or damaged devices brought to campus.

What’s next: Staff will work with site leaders and legal counsel to develop clear implementation guidance for the board’s second reading. Trustees asked for a practical plan that can be communicated to families before the fall school year.