Piedmont board weighs stricter phone rules: feature phones allowed during non‑instructional times, teachers raise equity and enforcement concerns

The board’s first reading of a revised mobile‑device policy prompted extended discussion and public comment. The proposed policy would prohibit student device use during instructional time unless a teacher gives permission, allow "feature" (no‑apps, no‑camera) phones during non‑instructional times on campus, and call for phased locker purchases to support the change. The clerk explained the item as a policy first reading and noted the district will seek community input and refine operational details ahead of implementation.

Teachers and staff raised multiple practical concerns. High school math teacher Aubin Willets said she is worried about enforcement and unintended classroom consequences: "I'm not gonna be looking in backpacks. I'm not gonna be checking pockets," and added that the policy could push students toward dishonest workarounds. Other teachers and parents noted that certain classes (art, yearbook) rely on phone cameras and that locker logistics, communication pathways for parents and equitable access would need careful planning. Trustees asked staff to provide a list of permissible feature‑phone models, to clarify escalation steps in the student handbook, and to report back on safety implications and disciplinary processes before full implementation.

Next steps: the policy is a first reading; staff will return with operational details (model lists, training, locker rollout plan and handbook language) and monitor effects once the policy is piloted.