NPS Policy Committee Meeting - September 10, 2026

The Norwalk Public Schools Policy Committee met on September 10, 2026, to discuss two key policies affecting student safety and well-being. The primary focus was on a proposed policy to prohibit electric bikes (ebikes) and similar electronic transportation devices on school grounds due to significant safety concerns, including fire hazards from lithium-ion batteries and risks of accidents involving students. Fire Marshal Donahghue and Chief Walsh provided expert testimony on the dangers and enforcement challenges, noting numerous ebike-related incidents and seizures in the community. The committee agreed to remove contradictory language about confiscated devices being stored in the main office and planned to advance the policy to the full board for approval promptly. The second policy discussed involved adjustments to the recess policy to explicitly prohibit the use of technology and screens during recess, emphasizing play-based learning and physical activity. The committee considered language clarifications to allow limited, teacher-approved screen use for movement activities during indoor recess. No additional budget requests were identified for implementing these changes. The committee plans to continue refining these policies with community and staff input.