State Board enforces cell phone policy in schools amid rising mental health concerns
April 30, 2025 | 2025 Legislative Meetings, South Carolina
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The House Ways and Means Committee convened on April 30, 2025, to discuss several key educational initiatives and policies impacting South Carolina schools. The meeting focused on character education resources, a new cell phone policy framework, and community engagement strategies aimed at enhancing student support.
The session began with a discussion on character education, referencing a law passed two decades ago that aims to provide resources to schools. This initiative seeks to foster positive character development among students.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the newly implemented cell phone policy, which stems from a proviso included in this year's appropriations bill. The policy mandates that the State Board of Education adopt a model policy regarding cell phone use in schools, which local school boards must implement to receive state classroom funding. The model policy outlines four main areas: access to electronic devices, the definition of the school day, consequences for policy violations, and exceptions for specific circumstances such as students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or those serving as volunteer firefighters.
The committee noted that most districts have opted to allow cell phones to be stored in backpacks or pouches, with few choosing to ban them entirely. The school day is defined as "bell to bell," encompassing the entire time students are on campus. While the model policy requires consequences for violations, the specifics are left to local districts to determine.
In addition to the cell phone policy, the committee discussed a statewide community engagement program inspired by former Governor Bush's initiative in Florida. This program allows State Department employees to volunteer in local schools, with the goal of expanding participation from other state agencies and private businesses. Feedback from schools indicated a desire for support in various areas, including assisting teachers and helping with administrative tasks.
The meeting concluded with a brief overview of the budget request related to these initiatives, emphasizing the importance of funding to support educational improvements across the state. The committee's discussions highlighted a commitment to enhancing the educational environment for students, teachers, and families in South Carolina.
The session began with a discussion on character education, referencing a law passed two decades ago that aims to provide resources to schools. This initiative seeks to foster positive character development among students.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the newly implemented cell phone policy, which stems from a proviso included in this year's appropriations bill. The policy mandates that the State Board of Education adopt a model policy regarding cell phone use in schools, which local school boards must implement to receive state classroom funding. The model policy outlines four main areas: access to electronic devices, the definition of the school day, consequences for policy violations, and exceptions for specific circumstances such as students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or those serving as volunteer firefighters.
The committee noted that most districts have opted to allow cell phones to be stored in backpacks or pouches, with few choosing to ban them entirely. The school day is defined as "bell to bell," encompassing the entire time students are on campus. While the model policy requires consequences for violations, the specifics are left to local districts to determine.
In addition to the cell phone policy, the committee discussed a statewide community engagement program inspired by former Governor Bush's initiative in Florida. This program allows State Department employees to volunteer in local schools, with the goal of expanding participation from other state agencies and private businesses. Feedback from schools indicated a desire for support in various areas, including assisting teachers and helping with administrative tasks.
The meeting concluded with a brief overview of the budget request related to these initiatives, emphasizing the importance of funding to support educational improvements across the state. The committee's discussions highlighted a commitment to enhancing the educational environment for students, teachers, and families in South Carolina.
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