The Ottumwa Community School District (OCSD) School Board approved the new cell phone policy effective for the 2024-2025 school year at the meeting on Monday.
The Cell Phone Policy committee representatives were Associate Superintendent Brad McCloskey, Liberty Principal Heather Platten, At Risk Family Services Coordinator Megan Logan, Ottumwa High School (OHS) Principal Shelley Bramschreiber, Evans Middle School Principal Michael Davis, and James Elementary Principal Jay Green.
Superintendent Mike McGrory talked about the benefits of keeping cell phones out of classrooms.
“By reducing the presence of electronic devices, we are encouraging students to engage more fully in their education and with each other. This is not just about limiting distractions; it’s about enhancing student well-being and promoting social interaction.” Mike McGrory, OCSD Superintendent
The Committee highlighted the four main positive reasons of how this policy with enhance the academic success of all students. Through growing the strength of students’ mental health, academic focus, the safety of students and staff, and by encouraging positive face-to-face interactions to develop strong peer relationships.
Bramschreiber says the committee had their first meeting on July 1 and a survey was later sent out to the community. She believes the discussions and feedback from the students, parents, and staff have been positive.
“I just think that the work we’ve done was very beneficial and it helped us see a clear picture of where we’re going and what benefit it can be for our kids.” Shelley Bramschreiber, OHS Principal
Davis broke the ice in May by introducing the policy to his students two weeks before the end of the year. He stated that he is “excited to see our kids be kids again”. Davis says he and the staff observed groups of kids engaging with peers they normally would not interact with.
McGrory says he is proud to be a part of a committee that is willing to be bold with this decision. He says the policy may have to be altered depending on certain situations.
“We are at a critical time with cell phones and the impact they have. . .for the people that have a lot of concerns about how we implement this, I guarantee you we will do it in a way that we’re flexible, that will work with people. . .We know the policy will have to be massaged, but it’s the right thing to do, and I applaud the committee for doing the right thing.” Mike McGrory, OCSD Superintendent
OCSD students came to a consensus that the policy will be beneficial for their learning. Bramschreiber shared what students told her at previous committee meetings.
“Two of the kids stayed and one of the students said ‘you realize how much grades are going to go up for some kids, right?’ students may not realize it but they are absolutely distracted and I really believe grades will go up.” Shelley Bramschreiber, OHS Principal
During the School Board meeting, a student expressed her concerns towards the policy on behalf of high school students who take dual enrollment courses at Indian Hills Community College (IHCC). The courses require a cell phone to login. The committee ensured that it was brought to their attention and they had discussions with IHCC officials. The dual enrolled students will carry a key fob that will serve as the authentication and cell phones will not be needed.
The motion to add the policy in the handbooks was approved and the OCSD will start the new school year with a cell phone free learning environment.
