Warrick County School Corp. board holds first reading of storage-based wireless-device policy, final vote set for June 8

The Warrick County School Corp. board on Monday held a first reading of proposed Policy 53,350, a district policy that would require students to keep personal wireless communication devices stored, powered off and inaccessible during the school day while preserving exceptions required by law.

Dr. Redmond told the board the policy is being presented after a 2024 state-law change that allows districts to choose between an outright device ban or a storage policy. "Under Indiana law, a student may bring a wireless communication device to school, but the device must be stored away, powered off and inaccessible throughout the school day except as provided by this policy or applicable law," Dr. Redmond said, summarizing the district's recommended storage approach.

The draft defines school-approved storage locations and retains exceptions for students whose Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or documented medical conditions require device access. Dr. Redmond said the district does not plan to buy new equipment; students will use their existing school lockers. He added that at the high school level the policy would remove phone access during lunch.

Board members asked practical implementation questions about locks, lockers and communications to families. Dr. Redmond said staff will use the summer to ensure lockers are functional and that the administration will distribute the final policy to families after the June 8 vote.

The board did not take a final vote Monday; Dr. Redmond said the policy will return for a second reading and final vote at the June 8 board meeting.