Milford board adopts bell‑to‑bell cell‑phone policy after public comment and law‑enforcement briefing

The Milford School Board voted to move Policy 2289 (JICJ) from first read to policy and to waive the normal second‑reading requirement, adopting a bell‑to‑bell prohibition on student communication devices in classrooms under the new state statute.

Superintendent Mrs. Michel and policy committee staff presented a draft aligned to the recently signed state law, describing a stakeholder survey with more than 330 responses and national research that the presenters said shows improved student engagement after device bans. The draft includes added language about contacting students during the day and emergency protocols; the committee also proposed that devices be kept powered off and stored (e.g., in backpacks) and that principals may determine storage locations through building handbooks.

A short clip from the documentary Screenagers was shown to illustrate concerns about screen time and student distraction. During the public comment period, resident Mike Thornton raised enforcement and liability concerns if a device is confiscated, as well as equity questions about purses versus backpacks. Officer Adanizio, invited by the board, briefed members on emergency communications: classrooms have landlines linked to enhanced 9‑1‑1 so 911 can identify the classroom origin of calls, emergency plans are reviewed annually, and law enforcement does not criminally enforce school rules.

Board discussion focused on clarifying consequences and making explicit accommodations for medical or language needs. The board approved a motion to waive a second reading and adopt Policy 2289 with language clarifications; the vote was unanimous. The superintendent said principals and teachers will receive guidance and that the administration will solicit teacher input on classroom alternatives and potential equipment needs.