
After months of deliberation, the Portland Public Schools (PPS) board has officially approved a new policy aimed at regulating the use of students’ personal electronic devices. The governing board voted on Tuesday night to implement a districtwide policy that restricts students’ use of cellphones and other devices during school hours.
According to the new policy, all students in Oregon’s largest school district will be required to turn off their phones, smartwatches, and other personal electronic devices throughout the school day, including during lunch breaks. There are some exceptions to this rule, particularly for students with disabilities who rely on personal devices for communication or effective learning. Additionally, cellphones may still be utilized for approved academic activities or programs.
Superintendent and school administrators will have some discretion in how the policy is enforced at individual schools. Notably, the board has decided against mandating the use of Yondr pouches, which have been employed in some PPS institutions. Students who fail to comply with the policy may face disciplinary actions in line with the district’s existing guidelines, including the potential confiscation of their devices.
The policy received approval from the board with a 5-2 vote, with members Herman Greene and Gary Hollands opposing it. They had previously voted against the policy when it was amended last month to include lunch periods in the restrictions.
Student representative JJ Kunsevi, a senior at McDaniel High School, also cast a symbolic vote against the policy during the meeting. The debate surrounding cellphone bans in schools is gaining traction nationwide. As of last month, at least 19 states have enacted laws or policies restricting students’ cellphone use in educational settings, either through statewide mandates or local actions.
Restrictions vary by state, with Oregon being one of seven states where such policies are recommended. Some of the most stringent laws are found in the South, where Florida prohibits phone use during instructional time, Louisiana restricts usage “during the instructional day,” and South Carolina requires districts to adopt a policy to be eligible for state budget aid. While the new policy takes effect immediately, the timeline for its implementation at local schools remains uncertain.