School board to review phone policy
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The Warren County School District could adopt a new student cell phone policy before the start of the school year as directors begin reviewing a draft proposal aimed at reducing classroom distractions and improving student focus.
The topic emerged during Monday night’s Committee of the Whole meeting, where administrators said the district has already prepared a draft electronic device policy in anticipation of possible statewide action.
Director of Administrative Support Services Eric Mineweaser told board members the district developed the policy proactively as Pennsylvania lawmakers continue to debate legislation that would restrict student cell phone use in schools. While both the Pennsylvania House and Senate have approved bills addressing electronic devices in classrooms, the chambers passed different versions and must reconcile them before sending a final measure to the governor.
Mineweaser said the district’s solicitor has reviewed the draft policy and it could be adopted as early as the board’s Aug. 10 meeting if directors choose to move forward. Otherwise, the district could wait to see whether the state enacts a uniform policy for the 2027-2028 school year.
Administrators noted that approximately 40 states, including New York and Ohio, have adopted some form of restriction on student cell phone use. Many require “bell-to-bell” policies, meaning students must keep phones put away from the beginning of the school day until dismissal, including during lunch and study halls. Mineweaser added that exceptions would still be made for students with documented medical needs.
Board members discussed several reasons driving the proposal, including classroom distractions, excessive screen time, the effects of social media on student mental health and the challenge teachers face in keeping students focused during instructional time.
Several board members requested copies of the draft policy before deciding whether to bring it forward for a vote. If approved, the policy could take effect before students return to school later this summer.