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Committee adopts student cell‑phone ban and approves temperature and attendance policy updates
Summary
After extended discussion, the committee approved temperature‑standards and credit‑card policies (second read) and adopted a student cell‑phone policy (JICJ) 5–2; it also approved first reads of consolidated attendance and family and medical leave policies.
The Lewiston School Committee took several policy actions June 15, advancing its policy manual and adopting a student cell‑phone restriction.
On first read, the committee approved a consolidated student attendance policy and a policy clarifying Family and Medical Leave procedures (administration said updates reflect HR clarifications and do not implement PFMLA changes). Both items passed their first reads by unanimous roll call.
On second read, committee members reviewed a no‑change second read of credit‑card use policy and debated a revised school temperature‑standards policy. Members sought a narrower comfort window and discussed building limitations (some schools lack air conditioning). The committee discussed but rejected adding explicit language that would require staff to notify building administration when temperature thresholds are approached; concerns about policy consistency across documents drove that decision. The credit‑card and temperature standards policies were approved on second read by a 5–2 vote.
The committee then debated and adopted policy JICJ, restricting student use of personal electronic devices during the school day. Supporters said educators had requested a clear, consistent rule to reduce classroom distraction; opponents said enforcement would place additional burdens on staff and raise equity concerns. The motion to adopt JICJ passed 5–2 on a roll call vote.
Members framed these votes as efforts to balance staff and student needs while meeting statutory requirements; the superintendent and policy committee will manage implementation and communications to staff and families.
