Shawnee Mission School District to discuss strict cell phone policy
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (KCTV) - After thousands of responses and several sessions, the Shawnee Mission School District has put together recommendations for a district-wide cell phone policy. On Monday night, Dec. 9, the district will discuss plans to implement.
The most recent recommendation from Shawnee Mission’s superintendent does not include a full-on cell phone ban, but rather pretty strict guidelines. The policy would vary by grade level.
Superintendent Recommendations:
- Elementary Schools - All personal electronic devices will be stored during the school day.
- Middle Schools - All personal electronic devices will be stored during the school day. Students can access cells in their lockers during ing periods.
- High School - Personal electronic devices (other than smart-watches) will be put away during instructional time.
These recommendations were summarized by an action team of 25 which included teachers, s, students, parents, and community .
The action team developed a plan based on engagement from 4,658 participants. Most of the participants (72%) were parents or guardians of students in the district.
Parents held varying opinions of the new policy, but a common word among responses was cell phones being “distracting.”
Below are some of the most popular responses.
“Our kids’ brains are at risk. They need to learn boredom, pick up a book, or think for themselves without stimulation and entertainment.”
“Enforce real consequences for phone use. Empower teachers to follow protocol. It started well this year, but some teachers relaxed.”
“Smart devices should be off & put away during the school day for all ages. They are a major distraction from learning & they impact students’ mental health and relationships in countless negative ways.”
On the flip side, some parents want cell phones accessible at all times. Most of the responses in favor of cell phones focused on safety, and being able to reach their child.
“In an emergency, I want my child to be able to me.”
“For safety concerns students in middle and high school should be allowed to have their cell phones in their person. But on vibrate or silent during class for personal/school safety reasons. What if a child has a medical reason and needs to call a parent.”
You can find the full outline of responses and recommendations here.
Cell phone policies have been a hot topic for school districts across Kansas City. Earlier this month, Olathe teachers reported strong signs after changing their district’s cell phone policy.
The Shawnee Mission School District will meet at the Center for Academic Achievement at 6 p.m. on December 9. Parents are encouraged to show by 5:30 p.m. with any questions or concerns to share.
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