OCALA - The few students who have been allowed by teachers or bus drivers to listen to music devices, such as iPods and other MP3 players, may soon hear their last tune on school property.

Though all Marion County schools forbid the use of such devices on campus, some have been more lenient than others, giving teachers the discretion to allow them under some circumstances.

Some children pull out the devices from their backpacks while waiting for the bus after school. Some bus drivers even allow students to chill out to their music as a way to maintain calm.

But teachers and bus drivers will not have a choice in the matter if Marion County public school administrators get a new section added to the countywide Student Code of Conduct.

The proposed addition to the 2007-08 code states: "Cameras, video cameras, iPods and similar electronic equipment are not allowed on the school campus or school bus unless pre-approved by school administration/designee."

Kathy Richardson, the school district's executive director of student services, said the exemption was added to the end because students may be required to bring such equipment for some school assignments.

Tim McCarthy, Lake Weir High School's dean of discipline, said the school does not allow any such devices to be used on campus. In fact, no school he has worked for has allowed the devices.

Richardson said the proposed rule means any teacher or bus driver who allowed students to use the devices would be in violation of School Board policy.

On April 24, the School Board will officially set a hearing date for the public to comment on the new code of conduct. That date will likely be June 12, according to Richardson.

School Board member Steve Hering, who was on the committee charged with fine-tuning the code of conduct, said updating the policy is "something we need to do on a regular basis."

There was also concern about the fact that many cell phones now feature digital cameras, video and music capability. All school districts statewide are required by law to allow students to carry cell phones.

Richardson said it wouldn't be a problem even if the phones included all the bells and whistles, from MP3 players to video recorders. That's because students who carry cell phones must keep them out of sight and turned off.

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