Parent urges phone ban; school committee debates ban vs. responsible use

A parent urged the Manchester‑Essex Regional School Committee on Oct. 15 to adopt a districtwide ban on student cell phones, setting off an extended discussion among committee members and school leaders about whether a ban or a focus on responsible use is the right path.

"We've been conducting a big experiment on ourselves and particularly our kids," said Nina McKinnon during public comment, arguing that removing phones would improve attention, in‑school social interactions and equity for students who cannot afford high‑end devices. McKinnon told the committee she supports a districtwide phone policy and asked, "what are you waiting for?"

Superintendent (name and role provided during the meeting) and high‑school staff responded that while they share concerns about device use, teachers in the district have not reported widespread disciplinary referrals tied to phones. The superintendent said, "we have not had a single referral to the office for a student who won't put their phone away" in this building and noted many teachers use phone caddies and incorporate devices appropriately in lessons.

Committee members pressed practical questions on several fronts: whether the problem is the phone itself or the apps students use; how medical exceptions would be handled; the limits of a one‑to‑one policy when students bring personal devices; and whether banning phones without coordinated community support would be effective. Members suggested steps before any formal policy change, including surveying parents, teachers and students and bringing the topic to school council for student input.

Speakers also noted curriculum changes that could support responsible use. A district staff member pointed to forthcoming statewide health and digital‑literacy frameworks that emphasize digital citizenship and healthy boundaries, and said counseling staff and Gloucester Public Health resources are available to support families.

The committee did not vote on a district‑level ban. Instead members agreed to collect more information — including a proposed parent survey and school‑level conversations — before any policy action. The superintendent said MSBA and school council input would be part of a future conversation, and administrators will return with findings and recommendations at a later meeting.