New state law bans student phone use during school day; district adopts handbook language

S1, a presenter, said a newly enacted state law prohibits student use of cell phones and other connected electronic devices during the school day and that the district's board has adopted the required handbook language.

The presenter said the statute defines the school day as from the first bell to the last bell, including passing periods and lunch, and forbids phones, earbuds and similar internet‑connected devices unless an exception applies. "No students are will be allowed to use cell phones during those times unless it is specific to an IEP, a 504, [or] another health‑related item," S1 said. Teachers may permit device use for specific instructional purposes, the presenter added.

S1 said disciplinary consequences for failure to comply will follow existing school discipline policy and range from verbal warnings to, in extreme cases, suspension. The presenter framed the change as an effort to reduce distraction and increase classroom engagement: "We're seeing the negative impacts that cell phone use has had on kids' brains, and the disengagement it's creating in school environments," S1 said.

The district has incorporated the new language into enrollment and student handbook materials; S1 said parents will receive information during registration. The presenter said the change is expected to be a larger adjustment for high school students than for K‑8 students, who the district already manages under similar rules.

Next steps: families will see the updated handbook language at enrollment; the district will provide guidance to teachers and staff on classroom implementation and discipline procedures.