West Noble board readies handbook and policy changes after state ban on personal cellular devices

The West Noble School Corporation reviewed plans to implement a new state law that will ban personal cellular devices for K–12 students from bell to bell starting this fall.

The superintendent told the board the district has received two draft Neola policies and is working with principals and the wellness committee on guidance for handbooks and communications to families. The proposed policy language would cover cellular phones and include smartwatches and glasses that have recording or internet capabilities. The superintendent noted existing incidents in nearby schools involving unauthorized recordings and emphasized the district's intent to bar devices that can covertly record in private spaces.

Medical exceptions will be handled case by case; principals reported that exemptions so far have been limited to students with diabetes or medical monitors. The superintendent said the district will still provide school technology for curriculum and communication and urged families not to purchase recording-capable eyewear for school use.

No formal vote on policy language was requested Tuesday; staff will return with policy and handbook language and communication plans.