CLINTONVILLE, WI- Students in the Clintonville School District will no longer be allowed to use their cell phones during the school day.
The school board approved the updated personal communication device policy by a 5–2 vote this month. The change means phones must stay off and in lockers from the first bell until dismissal. Students can use them before and after school, but not during class, lunch, or recess.
Board Treasurer Jason Moder said most of the feedback he’s seen on social media has been supportive, while Board President Glen Drew Lundt urged parents to bring concerns directly to administrators instead of telling kids to ignore the rules.
Lundt says the change was necessary, “This is an addiction, having screen time and really needing that. And especially at the younger level, it can really change the way students’ brain develops and acts.”
Administrators say the goal is to improve engagement and test scores, noting a trial run at the middle school last year led to more interaction between students and staff. Exceptions will be made for medical needs or special education plans.
Even with exceptions for medical needs and special education plans, Lundt says this change will come with a learning curve, “If it doesn’t work out as well or if it works out great, at least we’re working together, and we can make changes as we go.”
Despite some pushback from parents, the district says students can still communicate through their Chromebooks if necessary.
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