Board approves a new phone policy: phones off and stored all day in K-8

What happened

On July 20 the board approved Policy 5136 on personal communication devices by a 4-1 vote. In K-8 schools, phones must be turned off and stored away (in a locker or phone locker, not a backpack) for the whole school day, including lunch and recess. In high schools, phones must be off and stored except while passing between classes and during open lunch.

Why it matters to families

This changes the school day for every student. K-8 students have no phone time at school, and high school students can use phones only in set short periods. Exceptions cover emergencies, health care needs and IEP or 504 plans.

The evidence

The July 20 minutes record the motion to approve the policy as submitted (Ayes 4, Noes 1). The policy text in the meeting packet sets the K-8 and high school rules. A later Governance Committee referral (Sept. 28) asks for a joint board statement explaining the policy.

The source