USD 111 Reviews New Policy Recommendations from State’s Blue Ribbon Task Force on Student Screen Time
The Kansas State Board of Education recently established the Blue Ribbon Task Force on Student Screen Time to examine the growing impact of technology use in schools. The task force was charged with developing recommendations in three key areas: personal device use in school, the relationship between screen time and student mental health, and parental oversight of district-owned devices.
You can learn more about the task force and its work here:
🔗 Blue Ribbon Task Force on Student Screen Time
In response to these state-level recommendations, the USD 111 Board of Education is currently reviewing a draft policy for Doniphan West Jr./Sr. High School that addresses student-owned personal electronic device use during the school day. The proposed policy reflects a growing concern about how screen time may be impacting students’ focus, learning, and overall well-being.
Draft Policy Summary: Student Personal Electronic Device Use (Doniphan West Jr./Sr. High School)
Under the proposed guidelines, student use of personal electronic devices will be prohibited from bell to bell, including during class time, passing periods, lunch, and breakfast. This includes devices such as:
Cell phones
Tablets
Smart watches
Wireless headphones
Devices must be turned off or on silent and stored out of sight (e.g., in a backpack or locker) throughout the school day. If a staff member sees a personal electronic device—whether in use or not—it will be considered a violation of policy.
Use of personal devices will be permitted only in the office, and only with administrative approval.
Consequences for Violations:
1st Offense: One hour of after-school detention (1 discipline point)
2nd Offense: One day of In-School Suspension (ISS) (2 discipline points)
3rd Offense and Beyond: Three days of ISS per violation (3 discipline points per incident)
Note: Refusal to follow a staff member’s request regarding device use may result in additional disciplinary action.
This policy change, specific to Doniphan West Jr./Sr. High School, is part of a broader update to student handbook policies for the 2025–2026 school year. Recommended changes are highlighted.
📄 View the draft student handbook
The district appreciates the community’s support as we work together to create a focused, respectful, and safe learning environment for all students.