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Fairfield-Suisun staff lay out plan to comply with Phone Free Schools Act after broad survey of community
Summary
District staff reported results from a community survey of 2,303 respondents and outlined a policy-development timeline to implement AB 3216 (Phone Free Schools Act), noting general support for grade-differentiated limits and concerns about safety, communication and enforcement; a draft policy is expected for governance review in February and board consideration in March 2026.
District communications staff presented an informational update on the development of a smartphone policy to comply with AB 3216 (the Phone Free Schools Act), following a district survey and targeted stakeholder meetings.
Staff summarized ‘general guidelines’ gathered from principals and the survey: elementary students are expected to keep devices off and stored all day (with limited educational exceptions), middle school sites largely follow a similar off-and-away rule (some allow limited use at lunch), and high schools permit devices during non-instructional time such as passing periods and lunch with educational exceptions.
The district conducted broad outreach, gathering 2,303 survey responses and holding focus discussions with parent leaders, a student advisory committee (Super SAC) and site administrators. Average agreement with current guidelines was higher at elementary (4.4/5) and middle (4.1/5) than at high school (3.4/5). Respondents identified expected benefits (reduced distractions, improved mental health and engagement) as well as concerns about communication during emergencies, enforcement and equity when classroom activities require phones.
Staff outlined next steps: draft policy development, additional Admin Council feedback in January, governance subcommittee review in February, and anticipated board action in March 2026. Staff noted that any adopted policy must include statutory exceptions (emergencies, teacher/administrator permission, physician-determined health needs, and IEP requirements). Trustees and stakeholders discussed enforcement, potential unintended consequences (e.g., punitive suspensions), and the need for clear procedures for after-school programs and smartwatches.
Staff emphasized outreach and the goal of developing an age-appropriate policy that balances student safety, family communication and instructional goals.
