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In Tampa, Florida, the Hillsborough County School Board is contemplating a new rule: banning smart glasses on school premises. This topic took center stage during their board meeting on Tuesday.
As it stands, the school district already enforces a strict policy against the use of wireless communication devices in classrooms, unless given explicit permission by the school administration. This list of restricted gadgets includes smartphones, headphones, smartwatches, two-way messaging devices, and electronic gaming devices.
For elementary and middle school students, using these devices is off-limits during school hours, while high school students face restrictions during instructional periods, unless exceptions are granted.
During the meeting, the proposal to add smart glasses to the list of banned items sparked a discussion. Board member Patti Rendon emphasized that the issue fundamentally boils down to managing student behavior effectively.
She mentioned that the glasses offer AI capabilities that can answer test questions for the wearer, which she said really detracts from the educational process.
“I believe it is a responsibility of this board to make it very clear to our students that this is not going to be acceptable,” Rendon said.
Chief Academic Officer Gary Brady addressed the issue of children who need prescription glasses, stating that enough time had been given for students to make accommodations.
The new policy would be limited to students and does not extend to school administrators.
School principals will be taught how to identify smart glasses within the classroom.
In regards to voting on the change, no date has been set.