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Gilroy Unified adopts districtwide cell-phone restrictions for secondary students
Summary
After reviewing evidence and community surveys, the board adopted option two: secondary students must silence and store phones during instruction, but may use devices during passing periods, lunch and before/after school; wearable-device rules were also clarified.
The Gilroy Unified School District board voted Tuesday to adopt a revised cell-phone policy that limits students' phone use during instructional time while allowing access during scheduled breaks.
Staff presented a research summary showing mixed outcomes in international and U.S. studies: some studies tied phone bans to higher test results, other research found little academic effect but higher teacher satisfaction with stricter rules. The superintendent's office also shared local survey results: a majority of parents and staff reported satisfaction with the district's existing policy while a smaller share favored a full ban.
Under the adopted option two, secondary students must keep mobile devices silenced and stored out of sight during lessons and assessments; students may use phones before school, after school and during scheduled breaks (passing periods and lunch). The policy also clarifies expectations for wearable devices such as smartwatches and prohibits smart glasses that disrupt instruction.
Trustees debated three options'keeping teacher discretion, removing discretion to create a uniform rule, or a full ban. Several trustees said a consistent policy (option two) better supports staff and equalizes classroom expectations.
The board asked staff to continue digital citizenship instruction across grades and to review implementation and compliance in the coming year.
