LISBON — A new cell phone policy implemented within the Beaver Local School District seems to be having a positive effect on the school day, according to High School Principal Aaron Walker.

Walker told the board of education during the regular meeting that the elimination of all cell phone use during the school day has resulted in students interacting more at lunch.

“Students have mentioned that they are doing much better without the distraction,” he said.

Per the new policy adopted by the district in order to align with Ohio’s new law, cell phones are prohibited during the entire school day for students in grades K-12.

The policy is effective for the 2025-26 school year.

In other matters, the board and school employees all said the start of the new school year is going smoothly and that fall sports teams are off to a good start.

Walker also mentioned that current total enrollment at the high school is 567 students. Of those, 110 are taking College Credit Plus classes through Kent State University and Youngstown State University.

“Special thanks to Sharon Barrett for all her efforts in coordinating and supporting the College Credit Plus program here. She orders books, helps students with scheduling questions, and so on,” Walker said.

District Superintendent Eric Lowe also took time during the meeting to thank everyone for their assistance with the Back to School Bash.

He said they continue to see around 125 students at the elementary level and will continue to work to ensure that staff and student population size is examined especially in light of the continued concern with school funding for districts.