Lee County Schools Ban Cell Phone Use During Class Time, Add Bus Driver Incentives

Next year, Lee County schools will crack down on phones. Students will need to turn off their phones and keep them put away until school lets out.

The new rules are part of next year's student behavior code. Kids with medical needs can keep their phones if it's listed in their health plans.

To help with the shortage of bus drivers, officials okayed cash rewards. They're offering almost $200 for bringing in a new driver, plus $100 bonuses for staff who suggest good candidates.

In a big change, substitute drivers can now get behind the wheel before getting their high school diploma - different from old rules that required all paperwork upfront.

By getting rid of the diploma requirement, school leaders hope to get more people applying. New drivers can work temp jobs while getting their training done.

Schools nationwide are having trouble finding enough drivers. Bus routes are going unfilled as schools try to fix the problem. These money incentives are meant to help fill the gap.

To make it easier for new drivers to join, the district is now picking up the tab for startup costs. They're covering background checks and license fees - costs that used to keep good people from applying.

Students with health conditions won't have to follow the phone rules. Kids who need to check things like blood sugar can keep their phones with them.

The tough phone rules are meant to cut down on distractions. Social media, texting, and phone apps will have to wait until school's done.

These updates are part of bigger improvements for the schools. Earlier changes dealt with behavior issues and staff shortages, all working toward running things better.