OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (KCTV) – After thousands of responses and several comment sessions, the Shawnee Mission School District has developed recommendations for a district-wide cell phone policy. Monday evening, December 9, the district will discuss plans to implement.

The Shawnee Mission superintendent’s most recent recommendation does not include a total ban on cell phones, but rather some pretty strict guidelines. The policy would vary by grade level.

Superintendent’s Recommendations:

• Elementary schools – All personal electronic devices will be stored during the school day.
• Colleges – All personal electronic devices will be stored during the school day. Students can access their locker cells during passing periods.
• High school – Personal electronic devices (other than smart watches) will be put away during class hours.

These recommendations were summarized by a 25-member action team including teachers, administrators, students, parents and community members.

The action team developed a plan based on the engagement of 4,658 participants. Most participants (72%) were parents or guardians of students in the district.

Parents had varying opinions on the new policy, but a common term among responses was that cell phones were “distracting.”

Below are some of the most popular answers.

“Our children’s brains are in danger. They need to learn while bored, to read a book or think for themselves without stimulation or 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 turned off and put away during the school day for all ages. They are a major distraction to learning and have a negative impact on students’ mental health and relationships. »

On the other hand, some parents want cell phones to be accessible at all times. Most responses in favor of cell phones focused on safety and being able to reach their child.

“In case of emergency, I want my child to be able to contact me.”

“For security reasons, middle and high school students should be allowed to carry their cell phones with them. But vibrate or stay silent during class for personal/school safety reasons. What happens if a child has medical reasons and needs to call a parent?

You can find the full overview of answers and recommendations here.

Cell phone policies are a hot topic in Kansas City school districts. Earlier this month, Olathe teachers reported strong signs after changing their district mobile 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 arrive before 5:30 p.m. with any questions or concerns to share.

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