BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. – Members of the Broward County School Board met Wednesday to discuss potential adjustments to the district’s new cellphone policy, which currently requires students to keep their devices off or on airplane mode throughout the school day.
The rule, intended to minimize classroom distractions and improve focus, has sparked debate among board members, some of whom argue that complete restriction may not be practical or beneficial.
Board member Debbie Hixon opened the discussion by suggesting a more flexible approach, allowing students to access their phones during lunch breaks rather than maintaining an all-day ban.
“I believe we should adjust to use it at lunchtime,” Hixon said. “It’s hypocritical to allow teachers and security [to use phones] … modeling what we’re asking. I would like to ask us to look at police. Not in class, just lunchtime.”
Hixon argued that students could benefit from having a designated time to use their phones, particularly during a non-instructional period like lunch.
Supporters of relaxing the policy, such as Dr. Jeff Holness, emphasized the role of technology in students’ lives.
“Society is technologically dependent,” Holness said. “100% restriction could be counterproductive.”
He added that phones can be used productively, offering students access to useful apps, study tools, and emergency communication, especially during a time when technology has become essential to daily activities.
However, not all board members agreed.
Board member Sarah Leonardi voiced her concerns about phone use during lunch breaks, sharing insights from her recent interactions with students at Fort Lauderdale High School.
“The students said because they can’t use [phones] during lunch, they forget about their phones,” Leonardi noted. “Data says it takes 20 minutes to refocus. During lunch it negates the impact of restriction in the first place.”
Beyond board opinions, the policy drew comments from educators and members of the public who underscored the distinction between using phones productively and using them for social media or other distractions.
Several community members clarified that allowing students access to their phones does not mean unrestricted access to apps or platforms that could negatively impact their focus and behavior.
The discussion highlighted different views on the balance between technological dependence and the need for an educational environment free from digital distractions. Board members also pointed out that while phones could be a tool for learning, social media in particular often serves as a significant distraction, pulling students away from face-to-face interactions and class material.
To reach a data-informed decision, the board agreed to gather information on how students are currently using cellphones within schools and the impact of the existing restrictions.
The board plans to revisit the cellphone policy at a future meeting, with a clearer picture of its effects on student behavior and learning.
For now, the rule remains in place, requiring students to keep phones off or on airplane mode throughout the day.