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RSU 18 adopts new cellular-device policy after staff express implementation concerns
Summary
On second reading the board adopted policy JICJ to restrict student use of personal devices; staff urged clear procedures, training and protection against shifting enforcement burdens onto teachers.
The RSU 18 School Board adopted policy JICJ (cellular-device policy) on second reading after staff and board members discussed implementation details and supports.
Staff representatives urged meaningful input into the procedures that will implement the policy. A staff speaker who identified herself as an RSU 18 teacher and education association representative said, "Everybody just wants to make sure that staff has input," and asked that administrators solicit staff feedback and avoid placing an excessive enforcement burden on classroom teachers.
The superintendent said the policy is model-based and that building administrators and teacher leaders will develop the procedures and supporting communications. "Passing this policy tonight keeps you in compliance with the law," the superintendent said, and added administrators would present procedures for review by the board in August and provide updates during early implementation about behavioural incidences and staff impacts.
Board members asked for monthly behavioral metrics from principals after implementation and discussed staging the rollout so staff can see procedures before they are finalized. The motion to adopt the policy passed; the transcript records the motion and that "motion carries" on the second reading but does not include a numeric roll-call in the provided excerpt.
Why it matters: The policy changes how personal devices are governed in RSU 18 schools; staff emphasized the need for clear procedures, consistent enforcement and communication to teachers, parents and students before school begins.
