The Huntington Beach Union High School District Board of Trustees is scheduled to consider a new policy concerning high school students and their smartphone use at its meeting on Tuesday. This proposed policy aims to establish guidelines for the use of mobile communication devices on school campuses within the district. The HBUHSD serves students in Huntington Beach and most of Fountain Valley and Westminster.
According to the new policy, students would be permitted to utilize smartphones and other mobile communications devices on campus exclusively during non-instructional periods. This permitted usage is contingent upon strict adherence to both existing law and any applicable school rules. Conversely, during instructional time, the policy explicitly mandates that mobile communication devices “shall be turned off.”
The proposed policy outlines several specific exceptions to these general guidelines regarding device usage. Students retain the ability to possess or use a mobile device in the event of an emergency or if they perceive an immediate threat of danger. Furthermore, individual teachers or school administrators are empowered to grant permission for a student to use or possess a device, provided such permission is subject to reasonable limitations imposed by that educator or official.
Additional exceptions are incorporated into the policy to specifically accommodate various student needs and health requirements. For instance, if a licensed physician or surgeon officially determines that the possession or use of a device is necessary for a student’s health and well-being, such usage would be explicitly permitted. Moreover, the policy makes clear allowances for devices that are a required component of a student's individualized education plan.
Pertaining to potential violations of the policy, it states that students could face disciplinary action for the off-campus use of a mobile communication device. This disciplinary measure would be invoked if the off-campus use creates a threat or danger to the safety of students, staff, or district property, or if it substantially disrupts school activities.
The Huntington Beach Union High School District Board of Trustees will convene its meeting at the district office. The office is located at 5832 Bolsa Avenue in Huntington Beach. The proceedings are set to begin with a closed session at 5 p.m., followed by the regular public meeting, which will commence at 6 p.m.
