The school system in Iowa City is delaying the creation of a new cell phone policy

Iowa City, Iowa – Although they haven’t made a decision yet, the Iowa City Community School District (ICCSD) had intended to establish a new cell phone policy by this point.

The final verdict is anticipated in October after the ICCSD established a timeframe over the summer.

School board members continued to debate the pros and cons of a restricted ban, which would forbid phones during class but not at lunch or the halls, vs a complete ban, which would forbid phones from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., during a work session on Tuesday night.

According to feedback from those who work in schools, cell phones do significantly hinder learning, but imposing a total ban on them would only add to the already heavy workload of instructors.

Power clashes could arise between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., according to Brady Shutt, the district’s 7–12 Social Studies Curriculum Coordinator.

Many members of the school board stated that, despite the group’s beginnings, they are now open to considering a limited approach.

One member of the school board stated that she is still unlikely to support or vote in favor of anything short of a total prohibition.

Board member Lisa Williams stated, “I think at my core that cell phones inhibit that growth. These kids need to go to school where they can focus, learn, and transform into these amazing grownups.”

But Tuesday night, there appeared to be enough agreement to proceed. The superintendent stated that he could discuss a detailed limited ban policy with the board at the following meeting. The district may then put the policy into effect following the holiday break.

None of that, however, is a guarantee.

“I’m okay with beginning there. “We don’t stop there just because you bring that [plan] back,” stated Ruthina Malone, the school’s president.