New school phone policy up for discussion in Pinellas County [Video]

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — It’s no secret phones can be a distraction. That’s why the Pinellas County School Board is trying to come up with new phone policies.

About 5,000 parents, 2,000 district employees, and 600 students responded to a survey asking what they thought would work best.

The results show most people would prefer middle and high schoolers to use their phones if teachers gave permission or in special circumstances like medical needs.

The survey revealed most people think elementary school students should not be allowed to use their phones at all during school, including during lunch and between classes.

Most people think the first violation should start with a verbal warning for all grade levels and get more consequential if violations continue.

The new rules would apply to phones, smartwatches, and earpods.

The options will be discussed during the Pinellas County School Board’s workshop at 9:30 a.m. …