SPOKANE, Wash. — The first day of class is three weeks away for Spokane Public Schools, and the board is in the midst of updating its cell phone policy.
On Wednesday night, the school board reviewed proposed changes and how it will launch the updated policy this school year.
The proposed changes would require all elementary and middle schools to be cell phone-free during school hours, mandating students to keep the devices in their pockets or backpacks.
High school students would follow similar standards, but phone usage would be allowed during passing periods, lunch hours, before and after school.
Superintendent Dr. Adam Swinyard told the board at Wednesday's meeting that administrators support these changes, and he recognizes it will take time for the updated policy to catch on.
"There will be turbulence," Swinyard said. "We're going to be relearning some pretty entrenched habits with kids and that just doesn't go without some tension."
SPS said the policy also applies to smartwatches, non-medical listening devices, headsets, earbuds and other forms of wearable technology that could cause distractions in the classroom.
The board is still finalizing the language of the policy, including how to handle repeated mobile device offenses.
The board is expected to vote on adopting the new policy at the next meeting on August 28.
To learn about SPS's proposed phone policy, go to this information page on their website.
"The decision to implement these changes was made following careful consideration and after student, staff and family outreach," SPS said in a message sent out to parents on Wednesday. "This change aims to increase in-person social connection, minimize classroom distractions, enhance well-being, and improve your student’s educational experience. We understand that this policy will be an adjustment for students, families and staff. We appreciate your support and cooperation, as this new policy is not meant to be punitive. Our goal is to work together to ensure students can thrive in a distraction-free and supportive educational environment."