Board adopts stricter student cell-phone policy (Alternate 2) giving principals limited flexibility

The board voted unanimously to adopt Alternate 2 of Policy Advisory 276, tightening district rules on student cell-phone and electronic-device use. The approved version reiterates that during instructional time cell phones are not allowed and gives principals flexibility, with superintendent approval, to restrict device use during non-instructional hours in school buildings and programs. "This has been legally vetted, and that alternative 2 gives school principals, flexibility to make rules, with approval of superintendent to restrict student use of wireless communication devices during non instructional hours," a presenter said.

Board members asked whether teachers could allow limited use for calculators or research; the presenter said the state removed certain local flexibilities and that the policy is now a state requirement for how devices are treated during instructional hours. The board discussed screen-time research and agreed the policy is consistent with legal requirements; the motion carried unanimously.