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Board moves revised personal electronic equipment policy forward after debate on smartwatches and bus use
Summary
Richmond Community Schools moved policy 5136.01 (personal electronic equipment other than communication devices) to second reading after discussion about which devices are covered (laptops, tablets, smartwatches, earbuds), permitted use on buses, supervisor discretion on disruptions, and the need for administrative guidelines for enforcement.
The board reviewed revised policy 5136.01, which distinguishes other personal electronic equipment (computers, tablets, smartwatches, earbuds) from personal communication devices already covered in policy 5136. Members asked why the policy numbering changed and the administration walked through definitions and placement of the sections.
Committee members raised specific operational issues: whether devices could be used while students ride buses and corporate vehicles, how supervisors and coaches would exercise discretion when devices became a distraction, and whether smartwatches and earbuds that connect to the internet are encompassed. One member asked how the district will enforce state law about cell phones and whether administrative guidelines (AGs) would provide clarity. A staff member answered that guidance would be developed and that principals have exercised local discretion and created school-specific guidelines previously. After discussion the board voted to advance the policy to second reading, recording a unanimous vote, “Vote passes 5 to 0.”
