The Central Consolidated School District (CCSD) Board of Education has approved a new policy regarding student use of wireless communication devices. The decision was made during the board’s regular meeting on June 17, 2025, with the aim to reduce distractions from electronic devices during school hours.
The policy aligns with the New Mexico Anti-Distraction Law and includes input from educators through comprehensive surveys. It addresses concerns such as academic dishonesty, cyberbullying, and unauthorized recordings. The policy defines “wireless communication device” broadly to include items like smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, laptops, gaming devices, earpods, and other listening devices.
Students are generally prohibited from using these devices in classrooms and other learning spaces during instructional hours. To enforce this rule, the district will provide storage solutions for students’ devices upon entering school premises. Students are responsible for their own devices as the district will not be liable for any loss or damage.
Exceptions to this prohibition include educational purposes authorized by teachers, emergencies requiring contact with parents or guardians, health care management needs, and accessibility accommodations outlined in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Devices may be used during non-instructional times such as lunch breaks or before/after school in designated areas. School staff are required to enforce the policy consistently and violations will lead to disciplinary actions ranging from warnings to detention.
The policy also applies to school staff who must model appropriate device use and refrain from personal use during instructional time unless necessary for emergencies or duties related to instruction.
The policy will be published on the CCSD website and reviewed annually with input from educators, parents, and students. Board members emphasized that this measure is vital for maintaining academic focus and supporting student achievement. The motion was passed unanimously by all board members present.
