SSUSD Board Shakes Up School Boundaries and Cell Phone Policies—What Parents Need to Know

The Saugus Union School District (SSUSD) Board is gearing up for a major discussion that could reshape student life for years to come. Two critical topics are on the agenda: redrawn school boundaries and a stricter cell phone policy in classrooms. Here’s what’s at stake—and how it could impact families.

Boundary Changes: A Potential Shift for Hundreds of Students

With fluctuating enrollment and demographic shifts, SSUSD is revisiting school zone lines. The goal? Balance overcrowding and ensure equitable access to resources. Key points include:

• Priority on proximity: Minimizing long commutes for elementary students.
• Feeder patterns: Aligning elementary schools with specific junior highs to strengthen community ties.
• Public input: Parents can weigh in during the board’s open forum on March 12.

Crackdown on Cell Phones: Learning Focus vs. Parent Access

The district is also proposing tighter restrictions on student phone use during school hours. Highlights of the draft policy:

1. Phones off and away from bell to bell, unless explicitly permitted by a teacher.
2. Emergency exceptions: Students may still contact parents with staff approval.
3. Enforcement escalations: Repeated violations could lead to device confiscation or parent conferences.

Proponents argue it reduces distractions, while critics question enforcement logistics and emergency communication needs.

What’s Next?

The board will vote on both measures after the March review session. Parents are encouraged to attend or submit written comments via the district website.

What Do You Think?

• Should school boundaries prioritize proximity or keeping neighborhood kids together—even if it means longer bus rides?
• Is banning cell phones in class an overreach, or a necessary step to combat dwindling attention spans?
• Could harsher phone policies put student safety at risk in crisis situations?
• Would you support redistricting if it meant your child changed schools mid-year?

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