News

Last-minute changes made to OCPS cellphone policy ahead of new school year

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A new cellphone policy will be in place when students return to the classroom at Orange County Public Schools.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

The school board made changes to when and where students can use their devices on campus.

For the most part, cellphones will need to be silenced and kept tucked away in a backpack or a purse. However, there will be exceptions for some students with disabilities and medical needs, and if a teacher allows phones for educational purposes.

The district’s cellphone policy has been up for discussion for months. The hope is to cut down on fighting and bullying happening in the schools by cracking down on when students can use their phones.

READ: Trump indicted in 2020 election interference probe; Smith says Capitol attack ‘fueled by lies’

“We do have a discipline program,” board member Angie Gallo said. “We do know that the research shows cellphones is in large part due to those disciplines.”

But not everyone is on board with the change.

“While teachers are saying this could reduce fighting (and) cyberbullying, many teachers have expressed concern this will create extra work,” said Clinton McCracken, president of Orange County Teacher’s Association.

READ:Kissimmee leaders discuss ways to make downtown safer

Superintendent Dr. Maria Vasquez said even with the policy approved, the school district will follow through to see if what’s put in place is working.

Students are permitted to have a cellphone on school property, at after-school activities and on school buses.

The school board will reconvene at a later date to discuss the rules for smartwatches.

READ: Report reveals affordability challenges with FEMA’s flood insurance program

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.

0
Comments on this article
0

Listen

news

weather

traffic

mobile apps

Everything you love about wdbo.com and more! Tap on any of the buttons below to download our app.

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!