Leader Publications

Brandywine Community Schools is preparing to adopt a new cell phone policy that would replace the district’s outdated policy crafted in 2007.

Supt. John Jarpe discussed the proposed electronic communications device policy with the school board Monday and will put the issue up for vote at the next board meeting.

Under the current policy, students aren’t allowed to have a cell phone that can take pictures or access the Internet.

“I joked to the high school principal that they might as well stand with a big box outside the door everyday and have all the kids deposit their phones in it because no phones would be compliant today,” Jarpe said. “When I read that, I knew we needed to change it.”

Under the proposed revised policy, students may have a cell phone or other electronic communications device, but it must remain powered off and stored out of site during class time and passing periods.

A teacher can give students permission to use electronic devices for instructional purposes.

Students would not be allowed to take camera phones into gymnasiums, locker rooms, shower facilities, restrooms or a swimming pool.

School officials would have the authority to confiscate a student’s device if the student is found violating the policy.