Hatboro‑Horsham School Board considers strict new cell phone, personal device rules

At its March 9 meeting, the Hatboro‑Horsham School Board held discussions on a revised personal electronic device policy aimed at supporting focused learning and respectful interactions throughout the district.

Under the proposed Policy 237, a personal electronic device is defined as any privately owned item that can send, receive, record, store information, or access the internet, such as smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, laptops, earbuds, cameras, gaming devices, and AR/VR headsets. 

The proposed policy sets different expectations for device use by grade level:

Grades K–8: Students would be required to keep personal devices turned off and stored away (in lockers, backpacks or designated storage) at all times during the school day — including recess, lunch, and passing periods — unless a teacher or administrator specifically permits use.

Grades 9–12: High school students would be allowed to use personal devices during lunch as long as such use does not violate other rules or disrupt school operations.

"This policy ultimately supports a learning environment where students can be present, focused, and connected to instruction in putting away their electronics at certain times," said Brea D'Angelo. Director of Educational Affairs.

Exceptions to the restrictions would be available for students with accommodations in an IEP, 504 plan, or health plan, as well as for those needing devices for emergency notifications, such as volunteer fire or ambulance responders. Device use outside the instructional day or at certain school‑sponsored activities could also be permitted.

"The policy would never prohibit a student from using technology who needed it," Superintendent Dr. Scott Eveslage said.

Under this policy, students would be allowed to use their devices on the bus ride to and from school.

The new policy outlines that unauthorized device use could result in confiscation and disciplinary action under the district’s student code of conduct.

The policy would limit the use of personal devices during the school day to reduce distractions and maintain a positive learning environment:

General Rules: Devices would be prohibited from use for illegal activity, violations of school rules, or any behavior that disrupts school operations. Students would be barred from recording others without consent (except at public events) and from accessing or sharing inappropriate or illegal content. Use would also be banned in private areas like locker rooms, bathrooms, health suites, and changing areas. The district would not be responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen devices.

Privacy and Network Use: Students connecting personal devices to the district’s network should expect no privacy; files or information on school technology resources could be reviewed or deleted by the district.

Hatboro-Horsham officials will continue discussions on this topic at its next meeting on March 23, where language of the policy will continue to be heard. 

In 2023, Hatboro-Horsham instituted a cell phone policy where students will put away their cell phones and ear buds when classes begin.Teachers have the right to allow students to use their phones during the class period when they deem it appropriate.

To read the full policy, click here.