SPOKANE, Wash. — Spokane Public Schools are expected to address a possible update to a cell phone usage policy for students at their Wednesday meeting.
The proposed policy update aims to limit technology usage by students starting this school year.
The policy proposes all elementary and middle schools would be cell phone free throughout school hours, including lunch and break times. Meanwhile, high schools would be cell phone-free during classroom time but would allow devices to be used before and after school, at lunch and during passing periods.
The updated policy would allow phones to be brought to school but clarifies they must be put away and not used during class time.
The proposal applies to cell phones, smartwatches, non-medical listening devices, headsets, earbuds, and other forms of wearable technology.
According to the SPS Executive Director of Communications, Ryan Lancaster, the "change aims to increase in-person social connection, minimize classroom distractions, enhance well-being, and improve each student’s educational experience."
Spokane Public Schools is considering an update to their cell phone policy at Wednesday night's meeting, which starts at 6 p.m.