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Haysville school board adopts state-required student cell-phone policy after heated debate, 6–1
Summary
At its July reorganization meeting, the Haysville School Board approved a state-mandated student personal electronic devices policy (JCDC) that requires in-building restrictions and the purchase of lockers; the measure passed 6–1 amid concerns about staff burden, student safety and legal challenges.
The Haysville School Board on July 20 voted 6–1 to adopt a state-required student personal electronic communication devices policy (JCDC), approving a plan that will require students to place phones in secured lockers while inside school buildings.
Superintendent Jillian Macias told the board the policy and the district’s implementation plan — which includes training for staff and allowing principals to manage building-level procedures — take effect with the upcoming school year. "We are working with our principals on training that they'll give their staff and then verbiage with their students upon return," Macias said.
Treasurer Ryan told the board the district has ordered cell-phone lockers and that the initial cost to equip schools is roughly $120,000, to be paid from capital outlay. "That's Capital Outlay," Ryan said when asked where the expense would come from. The board confirmed the district will phase acquisitions based on building needs and have a plan B for additional requests.
Board members expressed dissent over the policy's necessity and likely operational impacts. The board president characterized the law underpinning the policy as "poorly written legislation" and an "unfunded mandate," arguing the district was compelled to adopt rules it would not have chosen independently. Another member raised safety and access concerns for families who rely on direct contact with students during the school day.
Supporters said the policy creates a clearer, more consistent approach across schools and that principals will have discretion to provide reasonable access for emergencies and specific student needs. The policy text retains exceptions for students who walk or ride to school and allows building procedures to handle special cases, including medical accommodations.
The board approved a motion to adopt JCDC; the motion passed with one member opposed. Board members asked staff to return with implementation reports and recommended the administration provide a review in the months following rollout.
