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Auburn schools consider revision to student smartphone policy

The Auburn Enlarged City School District is contemplating amending its code of conduct regarding student use of personal electronic devices in school, amidst growing concerns over the impact on student learning and mental health.


According to a public hearing held on July 25, the district’s board president, Ian Phillips, underscored the increasing concerns over the distractions caused by electronic devices in schools.

Auburn’s existing policy strictly limits the use of such devices, but enforcement has proven challenging. The proposed amendment, currently a work in progress, aims at mitigating cellphone distractions.


The proposed changes state that while students may bring personal electronic devices to school, the district will not be held responsible for these items. On campus, devices must be safely stored and not used or removed unless given permission by a teacher or administrator.

Board and community members have voiced concerns over enforcement.