The Lake Havasu Unified District held a special session on July 31, 2025, to discuss updates to the district's cell phone policy in schools. The meeting focused on the proposed procedure 5-305b, which aims to balance the use of cell phones as educational tools while minimizing disruptions in the classroom.
During the session, Dr. Stone emphasized the district's commitment to providing a safe and productive learning environment. He acknowledged that while cell phones can be beneficial for learning, they can also lead to distractions. The current policy allows students in grades K-8 to keep their phones but requires them to be powered off or silenced and stored out of sight during school hours, unless otherwise instructed by staff. High school students have more flexibility, with designated times during lunch and passing periods for phone use, provided it does not disrupt the school environment.
The policy also includes provisions for emergency use, particularly for students with medical needs or disabilities, which must be documented through special education meetings. Consequences for non-compliance with the policy are outlined in the student code of conduct.
Board member Mr. Becker expressed support for the policy, noting that any changes would place responsibility on both staff and students to adhere to the guidelines. He acknowledged that complaints from parents regarding teacher enforcement of the policy do arise but emphasized the importance of maintaining order in the school.
The discussion highlighted the district's responsiveness to parental concerns, particularly regarding student safety during emergencies. Board members thanked parents and staff for their input, which plays a crucial role in shaping school policies.
Overall, the meeting underscored the district's efforts to create a balanced approach to cell phone use in schools, ensuring that educational needs are met while maintaining a conducive learning environment.