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Policy committee agrees to staff survey after debate over students’ private device use
Summary
The New London Board of Education Policy Committee discussed Policy 5131.81 (use of private technology devices), heard administrators weigh translation and instructional exceptions, and agreed to survey staff; the committee also approved minutes and a consent agenda including two policy changes, all motions passing 3-0.
Nathan Caron, Committee Chair of the New London Board of Education Policy Committee, led a discussion Sept. 10 about Policy 5131.81, the district’s guidance on students’ use of private technology devices.
Carson said he placed the item on the agenda noting that “many districts in the state are passing device policies which restrict the use of cell phones in the schools.” Dr. Ritchie said the committee’s current policy “is aligned to the State guidance,” adding that “private devices should not be used in class unless specifically permitted by the instructor.” Ritchie also noted practical exceptions, such as using a phone for instant translation to support communication between students and staff.
Dr. Hills-Papetti said the district has seen improved outcomes this year, describing classroom routines that include teachers permitting devices for instruction, and using classroom storage pouches tied to PBIS points. “I have seen fewer issues this year with cell phones,” she said, while noting that problems often start outside school and then appear on campus.
Committee member Bianca Alexis-Sylvain said the issue had been problematic in the past when standards were lax. Elaine Maynard-Adams said there may be valid reasons for students to have phones — including medical reasons — but she “does not agree with cell phones being in the classroom or office.” She said off periods are permissible but recommended a broader discussion and proposed forming a subcommittee to study the issue.
Christine Pemberton, executive director of talent and human resources, said that having a phone for translation has been "extremely helpful in the Human Resources office," and that staff have seen similar benefits when supporting students. Dr. Ritchie added that expectations for device use have been communicated to parents, staff and students.
The committee agreed to develop a staff survey about device use and share the results at the next Policy Committee meeting. Chair Caron said he supported “involving multiple stakeholders.” No formal policy amendment or vote on Policy 5131.81 occurred at this meeting; the committee’s action was to commission the survey and return the results for further policy deliberation.
Votes at a glance: The committee approved the minutes of the Aug. 10, 2024 Policy Committee meeting (motion by Elaine Maynard-Adams; seconded by Bianca Alexis-Sylvain), and approved the consent agenda that included adopting Policy 6115 (Pledge of Allegiance, School Ceremonies and Observances) and Policy 5141.22 (Communicable and Infectious Diseases) and rescinding Policy Series 5000 (Pledge of Allegiance). Both motions carried, 3-0.
The committee convened via Zoom and adjourned at 6:46 p.m. The staff survey on device use will be created and its findings presented at the next Policy Committee meeting.
