Knox County Schools Superintendent Jon Rysewyk looks for areas to improve in
Knox County Schools Superintendent Jon Rysewyk looks for areas to improve in
The Knox County school board approved a restrictive policy on access to smart devices in schools, meaning students will only have access to phones, watches and tablets before and after school.
The policy change follows a new Tennessee law restricting access for devices including smart phones, tablets, watches and more. Knox County Schools had a similar policy in place, but the board members agreed on an updated policy tightening use by students.
The board approved the policy with six yes votes, two no votes and one pass during its July 10 meeting.
Board members had options to allow students to access their devices at the lunch periods or between classes, but declined to approve those.
Principals have the discretion to allow phones for work during class time, and students can carry them in backpacks or purses as long as they are kept out of reach.
Students are allowed to use their phones during emergencies.
The change applies in the new academic year in August.
Keenan Thomas reports for the Knox News business growth and development team. You can reach him by email at [email protected].
Support strong local journalism and unlock premium perks at knoxnews.com/subscribe.
