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Roberts board adopts student cell-phone policy limiting use during instruction
Summary
The board approved Policy 3630 Option 2, which permits student possession of phones before and after school and allows use during lunch, but requires devices to be kept out of sight and turned off during instructional periods; the motion passed unanimously on third reading.
The Roberts School District No. 5 Board of Trustees on Sept. 18, 2024 adopted Policy 3630 Option 2 governing student cell phones and other electronic devices.
Superintendent Alex Ator told the board that Option 2 is working well and recommended it for approval on third reading. The policy permits students to possess cellular phones and other electronic signaling devices before school and after school and allows limited use during the lunch period. It requires devices to be kept out of sight and turned off during the instructional day and prohibits use of devices with video capabilities in locations where they could violate another person’s privacy. The policy authorizes confiscation of unauthorized devices, which will be returned to a parent or guardian; repeated unauthorized use can lead to disciplinary action.
Guest Peter Wisniewski said he had spoken with teachers and students about the new rule and that "feedback has been positive." Chair Michelle Swansborough moved to approve Option 2 on third reading; Trustee Joel Bertolino seconded, and the motion carried unanimously (YES: Swansborough, Dobbel, Bertolino, Norman).
Adoption of Option 2 formalizes limits on in-class device use while allowing defined access at non-instructional times. The board referenced the full policy text in the meeting packet and adopted the policy as written.
