Big Changes Coming to Horry County Schools: New Electronic Device Policy Up for Vote!

Big Changes Coming to Horry County Schools: New Electronic Device Policy Up for Vote!

Hey Horry County! Big news is buzzing around the local schools, as the Horry County Board of Education gears up for a decision that could change the day-to-day for students and parents alike! After a hefty discussion on Monday, November 18, the board is set to vote on a brand-new personal electronic device policy next month. Hold onto your hats because this could impact how kids access their cell phones and other gadgets during school hours!

What’s The Deal?

So, what’s this policy all about? Horry County Schools Attorney Kenneth Generette laid out the framework for a new set of rules during the board meeting. If approved, this policy will mean that students, across all grades, “may not have personal electronic devices or accessories visible or powered on during the school day or while they are on the school campus.” Yup, you heard that right!

The push for this policy comes after the South Carolina Board of Education approved a similar ban on student use of cell phones and personal electronic devices during the school day back in September. Sounds like schools across the state are making some big moves to keep kids focused and on-task! Each district has to come up with its plan by January 2025, which aligns perfectly with Horry County’s proposal.

Timing Is Everything

Now, let’s talk timing. The new policy is set to define the school day as starting from the moment students walk through the doors until the dismissal bell rings. And just as a little heads-up, this policy includes not just cell phones but also items like air pods, smartwatches, and tablets. With so many kids sporting these gadgets, it’s a rather significant step!

Also, the proposed policy doesn’t just list rules; it also lays out disciplinary actions for different levels of violations. Sounds like Horry County Schools are putting thoughtful considerations into how to enforce this! There are exceptions, too, for certain circumstances, like medical needs or students involved in volunteer firefighting or emergency programs. It’s nice to see some flexibility in the rules!

Timing for Community Input

One board member, Janet Graham, voiced her concerns during the meeting about how the community will react to these changes. She wants to make sure that parents and residents have enough time to understand the ins and outs of the new rules. “I don’t know how we are going to do it, get out some blitz campaign or something. But, I would like for us to get really far ahead of this and have everyone understand what is going on,” she shared. Wise words, right? We all know that change can take a bit of getting used to.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, the Board is expected to take a vote on this device policy during its next meeting on December 9. If it gets the green light, students in Horry County will find themselves living by these rules starting in January. However, keep your eyes peeled for news on when exactly the enforcement will kick in!

Whether you’re a bus-wielding parent, a student who loves their phone, or someone in the community just curious about what’s going down in the schools, we’ll definitely keep you updated as the situation unfolds! Want to share your thoughts? Feel free to reach out and weigh in on what you think about these changes. Until then, stay tuned!