Park City School District wants feedback on proposed no-cellphone policy

Photo: Unsplash // Adam AY

The Park City School District is proposing a new policy that would prohibit cellphone use during school hours

PARK CITY, Utah – After recent conversations with parents, students and staff, the Park City School District came to the conclusion that cellphone use should be limited during school hours so students aren’t distracted and can stay focused on what is happening in school. The new proposed cellphone policy  would not allow cell phones to be used during school hours. Students would be required to keep their devices in a secure, out-of-sight location during the day, such as in a locker, backpack, or a storage container provided by the school.

A meeting proposing the no cell phone policy was held June 18. It includes a provision that students who need cellphones to monitor health concerns or for translation purposes (both reasons must be documented) can continue to use their phones.

In June, the district organized a panel discussion during which, a parent and student shared experiences of online bullying and its connection to an eating disorder. During the discussion, Treasure Mountain Junior High Principal Caleb Fine called Snapchat his “version of the devil.” The panel and audience agreed on delaying children’s access to smartphones and implementing a no-cellphone policy in schools.

The district also sent a cellphone use survey to staff, parents and students in May, which received over 900 responses.

The district board will hold a second reading and consider passing the policy at its next meeting on August 20. The community can comment during the board meeting or share their thoughts via email at communication@pcschools.us.