Parents raise cell-phone bullying and privacy concerns; board notes pending state action

During public comment, Ruby Jackson told the Connellsville Area School District board that cell phones in elementary and middle schools are contributing to bullying, videotaped incidents and privacy breaches. Jackson urged the board to ban or restrict phones in schools and suggested non-camera flip phones for students who need a device for safety.

Board member Mr. Evans responded that state-level legislation to curb student cell-phone use was advancing through the legislature and could provide a statewide baseline for school policy. He offered to follow up with the commenter directly to gather details and said administrators would review possible local responses as the legislative picture becomes clearer.

Other commenters and staff noted prior committee discussions on phone policy and encouraged including students in policy talks if the district drafts local rules.