Easton, Redding, Region 9 Joint Boards of Education Meeting @ JBHS - 05/26/2026 @ 7pm

The Easton, Redding, Region 9 Joint Boards of Education held a meeting on May 26, 2026, primarily focused on policy discussions related to technology use in schools, including a proposed bell-to-bell ban on personal cell phone use for students. The boards reviewed and took first readings on 18 policies, with significant debate on the cell phone ban policy, especially regarding its application at the high school level. The policy committee recommended the ban with exceptions for medical and IEP needs, but concerns were raised about enforcement, student input, and potential disciplinary actions. The motion to advance the policy passed in Region 9 and Reading but failed in Easton. Additionally, the boards approved school calendars for 2027-2029, certified compliance with Connecticut nutrition standards, and approved a one-year contract extension with Chartwells for food service. They also discussed budget allocations for central office health insurance, recommending up to $50,000 from unexpended funds to cover anticipated shortfalls. The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of facility maintenance efforts and plans for further discussions on technology policies.