Board debates 'personal Internet-enabled device' policy, plans final review in August before September start

Board members spent time discussing a proposed policy governing student use of personal, Internet-enabled devices (commonly referred to locally as a 'cell phone policy') and how quickly the district can finalize rules ahead of the school year.

Board member Kate Ratner said she had fielded questions about the proposed policy and noted the district had been waiting for state guidance; she recommended pushing formal action to August so the board can review the draft and its specifics. Ratner asked whether an emergency first-reading and adoption could be used to ensure a policy is in place by September.

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Lehman described the draft as a "personal Internet-enabled device" policy rather than just a cell-phone rule and said it would include clear definitions and consequences aligned with the district code of conduct. He said administration will bring a recommendation informed by athletic, transportation and classroom feedback and noted the draft also addresses devices like smartwatches and use on buses or field trips.

Board counsel and members discussed the technical options for adopting a policy on an accelerated schedule but said they were reluctant to use the emergency first-read approach without sufficient justification. The administration said it will prepare the draft and supporting recommendations for August committee discussion so the policy can be communicated before the start of school.

Why it matters: A device policy affects classroom management, instructional practice, transportation and equity concerns. The timing matters because the board wants a clear, communicated rule by September but also wants enough time for committee review and staff training.

What’s next: Administration will finalize recommendations and present the draft in August for formal consideration.