BMRSD Cell Phone Policy: School Committee Expands Pilot Program
The Blackstone Millville Regional School District (BMRSD) cell phone policy was once again front and center at the August 21 School Committee meeting, as administrators shared results from last year’s pilot program and outlined next steps. With statewide legislation moving forward, the district is preparing students, teachers, and families for changes that could soon affect every Massachusetts classroom.
A Pilot Program That Worked
Last school year, five teachers at the high school tested a pilot system often referred to by students as “phone jail.” Each classroom was equipped with a portable lockbox where students placed their phones during class.
Administrators reported strong results:
- Students complied, even when substitute teachers filled in.
- Teachers saw fewer distractions and more engagement.
- Some students admitted they focused more and avoided online drama.
Because of this success, the proposal for 2025–26 is to expand the program so every classroom has the portable containers. Students would still be allowed to use phones between classes and during lunch, but not during study periods or instructional time.
Safety and Consistency
One advantage of the portable containers is safety. Unlike wall-mounted phone racks, the boxes can be carried outside during fire drills or emergencies, ensuring students have access to their devices if needed.
Administrators also noted that consistent use across all classrooms will make expectations clear and fair: no matter the subject, the phone goes into the container when class begins, and students regain access during passing time or lunch.
Student Concerns Raised in April
The policy has also sparked discussion among students themselves. Back in April, a group of high school juniors presented their concerns during a School Committee meeting public forum. They argued that taking phones away from all students—rather than addressing individual misuse—disciplines everyone for the actions of a few.
Students also felt that the policy reduces opportunities to practice self-responsibility, pointing out that in college or the workplace, it will be up to them to manage distractions without someone taking their devices away. Other concerns included safety during emergencies, liability if phones were damaged or misplaced, and the fact that phones are sometimes needed as educational tools.
The School Committee recognized the students for the thoughtful way they shared their perspectives, even as administrators emphasized the need to reduce classroom distractions.
BMRSD Cell Phone Rules & Consequences
To support learning, maintain safety, and reduce distractions, the Blackstone Millville Regional School District (BMRSD) has established clear rules for when and where students can use personal electronic devices. Here’s a breakdown of the key guidelines from the BMR High School Student Handbook:
Where phones can’t be used:
- During class or hallways while class is in session
- In bathrooms during class
- Loud Bluetooth speakers
Where phones are allowed:
- Passing time between classes
- Study Hall
- Lunch
Consequences for unauthorized use:
| Offense | Consequence |
|---|---|
| 1st | 2 hours central detention + phone confiscation |
| 2nd | 4 hours central detention + phone confiscation |
| 3rd | 1 day in-house suspension + loss of support period + parent must pick up phone + Saturday restorative session |
Noncompliance steps:
- Teacher warning
- Phone placed on teacher desk or designated area
- Administrative notification, discipline, and parent notification
In short, the BMR High School Student Handbook clearly defines when and where students can use phones, how violations are handled, and the progressive consequences for repeated offenses. The expanded pilot program simply provides a consistent, practical way to enforce these rules across all classrooms—helping students stay focused while maintaining safety and fairness.
Statewide Ban Under Review
This local policy discussion is unfolding alongside a statewide debate. In late July, the Massachusetts Senate passed a bill to restrict personal electronic device use in schools. The House is now reviewing the measure and could either sign off on the Senate’s version or draft its own.
If passed, the ban would apply to phones, tablets, smartwatches, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. Districts would still be required to provide a reliable way for parents and students to communicate during the school day if needed. Current estimates suggest any statewide rules may not take effect until 2026 or 2027.
What’s Next for BMRSD
For now, the BMRSD cell phone policy will continue as a pilot—just on a wider scale. Every classroom will have a lockbox, students will have limited times for phone use, and discipline will remain progressive for those who break the rules.
Administrators stressed that while high school students often need to communicate with employers, siblings, or parents, those needs can be met during passing periods, lunch, or through the main office in emergencies.
The School Committee voted unanimously to continue and expand the program this year, preparing the district for possible statewide changes in the future.
At Small Town Post, our mission is to keep Blackstone and Millville residents informed on the issues that matter most—whether it’s school policies, local events, or community stories. The ongoing discussion about the BMRSD cell phone policy shows how decisions made in the classroom affect families, students, and the community as a whole.
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