The Knox County Board of Education voted to advance a policy limiting student cell phone use during school hours.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Knox County Board of Education took a key step toward limiting cell phone use in classrooms, voting in favor of a stricter policy that would restrict student access to personal wireless devices during the school day.
During a recent school board meeting, leaders approved the first reading of Version Two of the “Use of Personal Communication Devices in School” policy. The proposed changes are intended to reduce distractions and encourage responsible technology use, according to the proposal.
Under the revised policy, a wireless communication device (WCD) is defined as “a personal portable wireless device that has the capacity to provide voice, messaging or other data communication between two or more parties.” It includes cell phones, smart watches, smart glasses and tablets. District-issued devices, such as Chromebooks or tablets provided for learning, are not affected by the policy.
Students would be required to store personal devices in backpacks, purses or other personal items and keep them off during the school day. Use of WCD would only be allowed in the following cases:
- A teacher is authorized by the principal to allow use for educational purposes
- A student needs the device for a medical oer emergency reason
- Use of a device during instructional time is included in the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), Section 504 plan or Individual Learning Plan (ILP)
- A student with a disability uses the device as assistive technology
According to the board, the goal is not to discourage learning-based use of technology but to create clear boundaries and ensure appropriate oversight. If a student is found using a device or doesn’t store it appropriately, it may be confiscated and returned to the parent or guardian.
In the event of an emergency, a student can use a WCD to communicate, but schools emphasize that the principal or their designee remains the main point of contact for families.
Knox County Schools also said they will not be held liable for loss or damage to any personal devices brought onto campus.
The policy goes into effect during the upcoming school year.
