Lee County Schools has approved an updated cell phone policy that will impact how students use electronic devices on campus. The Lee County Board of Education approved the changes during its June 9 meeting and come as school districts across North Carolina continue to balance technology access with classroom learning and student safety.
The updated policy allows students to bring cell phones and other wireless devices to school, but those devices must remain off, out of sight, and unused during instructional time unless specifically authorized by a teacher or administrator. Exceptions are permitted for educational purposes, documented medical needs, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 plans, and emergencies.
Board members discussed concerns about bullying and the role technology can play in helping students document incidents when necessary. The discussion stemmed in part from previous policy committee conversations and ongoing statewide discussions about student device restrictions in schools.
New Rules for Student Device Use
The revised Lee County Schools cell phone policy also addresses recording and photography on school property. Students must obtain consent before recording or sharing identifiable images of other students or staff members. However, recordings remain permitted at public events such as athletic competitions, concerts, assemblies, presentations, and award ceremonies unless restrictions are announced in advance.
School officials say the changes are intended to create a consistent standard across the district while protecting student privacy and minimizing classroom distractions.
Students who violate the policy may have their devices confiscated by school personnel and could face disciplinary consequences under the district’s Code of Student Conduct. In most cases, confiscated devices will be released only to a parent or guardian.
Field Trip Policy Could See Changes Next
In addition to approving the updated cell phone guidelines, the Board of Education conducted a first reading of proposed revisions to the district’s field trip policy.
The proposed changes would establish three categories of field trips: core academic trips, enrichment trips, and incentive or reward trips. The recommendations would also prohibit field trips during state testing windows and require teachers to connect trips directly to classroom instruction through pre-trip and follow-up activities.
No action was taken on the field trip proposal during the June meeting, and additional discussion is expected before any final approval is considered.
School leaders say the goal is to ensure field trips support educational objectives while minimizing disruptions to classroom learning.
The next Lee County Board of Education meeting is scheduled for July 15, where board members could continue discussions on the proposed field trip changes.
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