Isaac Rosenfeld, Jamestown Public Schools Board of Education student member, told the other board members Tuesday that because of the current cellphone policy students wait in the morning outside.

He is looking for a solution, so students would not have to wait outside in the cold.

According to the JHS cell phone policy, before entering school, students have to have their cellphones secured in a pouch and checked by designated staff members.

The process, Rosenfeld said, takes time to complete, and some students don’t dress for the cold temperatures.

JHS Madrigal Choir Director Lauren Scharf readies the choir for a performance at the Jamestown Public Schools Board of Education Tuesday Meeting at Jefferson Middle School.

“Before students get to school, especially mornings like these, it might be difficult for them to get to school in the snow,” Rosenfeld added.

Rosenfeld noted that even though students may only be five to 10 minutes late, they have to wait in long lines outside school doors.

“It could leave kids stranded in the cold, and they might not have proper clothing to wear to keep them warm, so they might just be uncomfortable, and it’ll keep them out there for maybe, like, up to 10 to 15 minutes,” Rosenfeld said.

For the winter months, that policy probably will be updated.

JHS Principal Allyson Smith said during the board’s Aug. 28 meeting that more scenarios may arise as students, teachers, staff, and administrators get more familiar with the routine.

Superintendent Dr. Kevin Whitaker noted that a similar situation happens when buses arrive late to school.

“I will talk with the principal, and figure out a way to make sure the students are warm and safe,” Whitaker said.

In May, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the distraction-free law will take effect this fall for the 2025-2026 school year. The state law requires bell-to-bell restrictions on smartphones in K-12 schools. The requirement also applies to charter schools as well as Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES).

The principal noted that ninth- through 11th-grade students will enter JHS through the front doors, and 12th-grade students will enter JHS through the school store doors.

Whitaker noted that when traveling on a school bus, students can use their cellphones, but must have their pouches closed, and ready to be checked before entering school.

In other business the board listened to a preview performance of the JHS Madrigal Choir.

“I know this is a lot of work for all of you, and I know it’s a lot of running around on snowy days, but, but you should know how much you really just touch people and the emotions that just from hearing these beautiful voices,” Board President Paul Abbott said. “Thank you so much for being here tonight, and thank you for all of your hard work.”

Under the direction of Lauren Scharf, the choir will perform as part of the Vespers Services Dec. 14 and 21 at 4 p.m. at First Lutheran Church, 120 Chandler St.