The Fall River School Committee has approved a policy that bans cell phone use in city middle schools and B.M.C. Durfee High School (with some exemptions) during school hours.
The school department has been researching the effectiveness of such a policy since earlier this year, surveying parents and staff. The policy will take effect a few weeks into the new school year at Durfee High School, the Morton, Talbot, and Kuss Middle Schools, and grades six through eight at the Henry Lord and John J. Doran Community Schools.
Dr. Bronhard said there will be exemptions for some students to gain access to their phones for medical purposes. Parents will have multiple options to reach their children in the event of a family emergency.
Before the vote, city parent and local teacher Katie Elliott testified in favor of the policy through the lens of a parent and teacher.
Ms. Elliott also said disconnecting from phones during school will protect academic integrity in learning and provide opportunities for student social and emotional growth.
The school committee unanimously approved the cell phone policy. Member Shelli Pereira said despite some parents’ objections, the policy’s benefits will outweigh any harm.
Dr. Bronhard said the new policy will not be implemented until students and parents are familiar with the program’s protocols.
Video courtesy Fall River Educational Television
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