A significant shift in cell phone policy for Warren County Public Schools is on the horizon, as the Board of Education discussed a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing electronic device usage in classrooms. During the October 2 meeting, Dr. Costner presented the proposed regulation for the use of personally owned electronic devices, emphasizing its importance for student well-being.

The policy rollout began on October 1, with notifications sent to parents explaining the changes. Dr. Costner noted that while elementary and middle schools already have restrictions in place, high schools will see a gradual implementation. Starting October 14, students will be prohibited from using their phones during class changes, with full enforcement set to begin on January 6, 2025. This phased approach aims to acclimate students and staff to the new rules.

Board members expressed concerns about the language in the policy, particularly regarding the consequences for repeated violations. A proposal was made to change the wording from "may" to "shall" in the disciplinary actions, ensuring that phones would be confiscated after three warnings. This change aims to create a more consistent enforcement of the policy, reducing ambiguity for both students and teachers.

The discussion highlighted the growing awareness of the impact of screen time on mental health, with board members advocating for parental involvement in reinforcing the new rules. The hope is that as parents face the inconvenience of retrieving confiscated phones, they will take a more active role in managing their children's device usage.

As the board prepares for the full implementation of the policy, the focus remains on fostering a healthier learning environment that encourages face-to-face communication and reduces distractions in the classroom.