FREDERICKTOWN — Fredericktown Local Schools has drafted an updated cell phone policy that would ban them during school hours for the 2024-25 school year.

The policy was introduced at June’s special board of education meeting, in a quest to enhance student engagement and academic focus.

The policy will be voted on at the next regular board meeting July 16.

The new cell phone policy would apply to all students on school property during school hours.

● Grades 6-12: Students are prohibited from using cell phones between 7:45 a.m. and
2:45 p.m.

● Grades K-5: Students are prohibited from using cell phones between 8:45 a.m. and 3:45
p.m.

According to the drafted policy, if cell phones are brought to school, they must remain in student backpacks or school-assigned lockers and be turned off during the school day.

The policy also states school telephones will be available for emergency use by students.

Students are responsible for all content on their cell phones, including social media, pictures, text messages and videos. Inappropriate material found on cell phones may be referred to local law enforcement.

The district cites “extensive research indicating that cell phone usage in schools can negatively impact student performance and mental health.”

It can also lead to lower test scores and overall academic performance.

The policy was drafted from the Ohio Dept. of Education & Workforce model cell phone policy, Fredericktown superintendent Gary Chapman said.

A survey asking teachers and staff if cell phones should be banned during school hours was released at May’s board of education meeting. Around 43% of respondents said they should be banned.

“Fredericktown is committed to creating an environment conducive to learning and personal growth,” the release states. “We believe the implementation of this policy will support our students in achieving their fullest potential.”

What are other districts doing?

Danville Local Schools unanimously passed a cell phone ban for students in May’s board of education meeting. The policy will go into effect this school year.

Mount Vernon City Schools is currently creating a district-wide cell phone policy, first discussed at June’s board of education meeting.

School districts are required to have a cell phone policy after Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed House Bill 250.