The Nye County School District (NCSD) Board of Trustees is seeking input from parents, guardians, students, and employees regarding a proposed policy to restrict cell phone and personal electronic use during school hours. The move aims to minimize distractions, enhance learning environments, and promote healthier social interactions among students.
In a letter addressed to the community, the Trustees outlined their goals to improve educational outcomes and support student well-being. The proposed policy aligns with NCSD’s strategic plan to create positive and productive learning spaces where students feel safe and supported.
Why Consider a Ban?
The Trustees cite several studies highlighting the negative impact of cell phones on student performance and social dynamics:
- A University of Texas at Austin study found students performed worse on tests when allowed to use cell phones during class.
- Data from the National Education Association and cyberbullying statistics suggest a connection between in-school cell phone use and increased instances of cyberbullying.
- Research from the Journal of Adolescence indicates teens who spend more time on their phones report greater feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Links to these research findings are available for review: Research Sampling.
How Would the Policy Work?
Under the proposed policy:
- Students could bring cell phones to school but would be required to keep them turned off and stored in their backpacks during the instructional day.
- Students using phones during school hours would face progressive discipline.
- Parents needing to contact their children during school hours would be directed to call the school office.
Community members are encouraged to provide feedback on this proposed change by completing the Public Comment Form. Input can also be shared during the public comment portion of the next school board meeting on December 12, 2024, at 5:30 PM. The meeting will be held at the district office in Pahrump and via video conference at the Tonopah High School library. You can find more information about Board Meetings here.
Seeking Community Voices
“The Nye County School District Board of Trustees is dedicated to providing a quality education for all students,” the letter states. “We believe this is a necessary step to improve student learning, reduce instances of inappropriate use of technology and cyberbullying, and increase social interaction among students.”
The Board encourages everyone to weigh in on the potential policy change. They are asking that everyone complete the survey found here by December 5, so the feedback can be compiled and provided to the Board for review before the meeting on the 12th. Community members can access further details and resources via the NCSD website.
