Committee signs off on AI policy and advances personal electronic-device policy as state law takes effect

The Foster-Glocester Regional School Committee approved the second reading of an artificial intelligence (AI) policy and took the personal electronic device policy through its first reading, reflecting new state statutory requirements.

Committee members discussed the draft personal electronic device policy’s provisions for middle-school students, including language requiring devices to be "off and away for the day" and stored in lockers unless expressly authorized. Members raised concerns about safety and access (for example, in emergencies), whether the policy should be more permissive during non-instructional time such as lunch, and how teacher discretion would be guided to avoid inconsistent enforcement.

Members noted that Rhode Island General Law 16-21-43 will take effect on Aug. 20, 2026, banning student use of personal electronic devices in school buildings during the applicable times described by the statute. Several members requested that the policy be discussed at a policy-subcommittee meeting before a second reading so the committee can settle communication and enforcement plans for families and staff.

The committee also approved the AI policy on second reading and thanked staff (Dave) for drafting the language; members invited the policy author to the policy meeting to discuss details.

Staff were asked to prepare a parent-facing communication plan and to confirm whether the policy should rely on a simple "per state law" reference or include district-specific language clarifying exceptions for instructional use, cafeteria time, or supervised activities.