Board to survey parents and staff before deciding on mobile device policy

The Atascadero Unified School District Board of Trustees paused a first‑read policy on mobile communication devices and directed staff to survey parents and district staff before taking further action.

During discussion of policy 50.1318, trustees described two options: a policy limiting smartphone use or a policy prohibiting smartphones and other mobile communication devices. Trustees and Dr. Bennett noted potential classroom conflict and parental concerns about emergency access.

Trustee comments focused on getting staff perspectives and engaging parents; one trustee suggested the district should also "make their case" to the community about why limits might improve learning. Trustees agreed to circulate a survey to parents and staff and return the results to the Policy Committee for next steps.

No formal policy change was made at Tuesday's meeting; rather, the board set a process to gather community and staff input before choosing among options.