Phone Policy Advances, Seven Schools Shed ‘Low-Performing’ Label

The board moved a new student phone policy forward after hearing student and parent feedback, debate over lunch use, and research on learning impacts. Members also celebrated seven schools exiting the low-performing list while questioning state support, and reviewed enrollment declines, family choice pressures, and Chromebook repair needs. 12mins

Education
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Original Meeting

Thursday, November 6th, 2025
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Video Notes

#DPSCommunity | DPS Board of Education Monthly Work Session | 11/6/25

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Wes Platt
Durham, NC
Neighborhood news guy for Southpoint Access in Durham.
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In This Video
  • Paula Januzzi-Godfrey criticized the administration and board for failing to acknowledge or apologize for an offensive and confusing action affecting DPS employees and urged leadership to model accountability.
  • Dr. Lewis relayed student feedback on consistent phone policies and suggested solutions like out-of-reach charging stations to encourage compliance.
  • Dr. Lewis summarized parent feedback on school phone policies, noting some viewed phones as essential for emergency communication while others saw them as classroom distractions that impede learning and social interaction.
  • The proposed phone policy did not itself trigger suspensions, though misconduct involving a phone could be addressed under the existing code of conduct.
  • Ms. Carter Otten cited research suggesting that restricting cell phones in schools was associated with improved academic outcomes for lower-achieving students and potential reductions in bullying among younger teens.
  • Board Member Beyer opposed banning phones during lunch, arguing lunch was not instructional time, phones could serve constructive uses like extracurricular apps, and allowing them would reduce policing by staff.
  • The board unanimously approved the first reading of policy 4318 and referred it to the Policy Committee for further discussion.
  • A speaker announced that seven schools exited low-performing status, attributing the improvement to aligned support, data-driven efforts, and belief in student potential.
  • A speaker reported that Bethesda, under Principal Wycroft, improved school climate with major office referrals cut nearly in half, attendance targeted through a robust plan, and 95% positive teacher working conditions ratings.
  • Board Member Harrell Goff emphasized that state low-performing labels did not reflect the full story, highlighting that such schools often showcased remarkable work by students and staff.
  • Board Member Beyer celebrated seven schools exiting the low-performing list and criticized the state for not providing additional resources, calling for greater investment in students with the highest needs.
  • A report on preliminary district enrollment numbers shows declines of about 1,000 students year over year, noting kindergarten was down 151, possibly linked to a lower birth cohort five years earlier.
  • A speaker reviewed three years of monthly enrollment data, noting small wave-like fluctuations with early-year increases, mild mid-year declines, and a smaller second-half drop in 2023–24.
  • Vice Chair Rogers reflected on declining enrollment figures and asked how the district would use analysis, programs, and communications to position itself as the best option for families.
  • Board Member Beyer criticized the growth of charter schools for harming students and families and urged private school families receiving public funds to stop taking taxpayer money for private education.
  • Board Member Carda-Auten called for understanding why families leave or stay to improve services and make Durham Public Schools the preferred choice for students and the community.
  • Deputy Superintendent Nicholas King, speaking about a new computer repair contract up for consideration, clarified that Chromebook repairs would remain necessary under any configuration, but reported fewer repairs when devices were used in day-user mode rather than transported between home and school.
  • Board Member Beyer acknowledged the need for a major Chromebook repair contract, praised transparency, and accepted responsibility for allowing COVID-era devices to age beyond their three- to four-year lifespan without sufficient planning.
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