Brevard Public Schools Board Votes 4-1 to Extend Wireless Device Restrictions to All Grades

'We want students focused, connected, and engaged—not distracted'

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – In a decisive move to reduce classroom distractions, the Brevard Public Schools Board has approved a significant expansion of its Wireless Communication Device (WCD) policy to include all students in grades K–12, setting a stricter standard than existing Florida law, which only mandates restrictions through grade 8.

The policy was approved in a 4–1 board vote on August 12 in Viera.

Under the newly endorsed policy, students in all grade levels may possess WCDs—such as cell phones, tablets, laptops, iPads, and smartwatches—but must keep them powered off or silenced and stored out of sight from the first bell to the final dismissal bell.

The restrictions apply throughout the school day, including during lunch, hallway transitions, and other non-instructional periods. Exceptions are permitted only under medical or emergency circumstances.

Proponents, including BPS Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell, emphasized the goal of minimizing technological distractions and enhancing student engagement.

“This policy is about getting kids off their phones and back into the moment,” said Rendell. “We want students focused, connected, and engaged—not distracted by screens.”

BPS School Board Chair Gene Trent echoed this commitment, highlighting the district’s intent to cultivate stronger learning habits while involving teachers and families in finding a balanced approach.

While the new policy curbs device usage across the board, the board has postponed final decisions on how personal technology—such as laptops and iPads—will be managed during instructional time in middle and high schools.

The district will deploy a 30-day grace period before the policy takes effect, designed to give families and schools time to adapt. Clarity regarding medical or disability-related accommodations is still pending.

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