91ÊÓƵ³ÉÈËÍøÕ¾ is committed to creating learning environments where every student can thrive. In today’s digital world, we recognize that cell phones and smart devices are a major part of students’ lives. They offer tools for learning, staying connected, and expressing individuality. But they can also be a distraction from instruction, a challenge for mental well-being, and a barrier to academic success. That’s why we’re introducing a new districtwide cell phone policy for the 2025-2026 school year, designed to strike a balance between access and accountability.
“Classrooms should be places of engagement, collaboration, and curiosity,” said Superintendent Dr. Ian Roberts. “This new cell phone policy is about putting student success first, supporting our educators, and creating spaces where our young people can truly focus, grow, and achieve.”
A Smarter Approach
The new policy applies to every 91ÊÓƵ³ÉÈËÍøÕ¾ school and provides clear, age-appropriate guidelines for the use of cell phones and similar devices from preschool through high school. By setting clear expectations and promoting responsible use, we aim to:
- Maximize instructional time
- Reduce distractions
- Support student mental health
- Improve educational outcomes
What Families Need to Know
This is how the policy looks across our schools:
High Schools (Grades 9-12)
- Instructional Time = Cell Phone-Free Time
Phones must be out of sight and away from students during class unless a teacher specifically allows them for a learning activity. - Non-Educational Use is Prohibited
No texting, social media, gaming, or calls during class. Phones may never be used during tests or assessments. - Communication
If families need to reach students during the day, they should contact the school office. - Each high school may adapt the policy to meet their needs.
Middle Schools (Grades 6-8)
- All-Day Cell Phone-Free Zones
Phones must be stored in lockers or backpacks and not used during the school day. - Limited Exceptions
Use may be allowed during breaks or emergencies, with staff permission. - Communication
Parents and guardians should contact the main office to connect with students.
Elementary Schools (Preschool – Grade 6)
- No Cell Phone Use During School Hours
Phones must be turned off and stored for the day in a designated area. - Only for Emergencies
Staff will determine when phone use is appropriate. - Communication
As with other levels, families should contact the school office to reach their child.
Important Additional Information for All Families:
- Exceptions will be made for emergency situations, medical needs, or use outlined in an IEP or 504 Plan.
- Petitions for student cell phone access may be submitted to the principal and will be reviewed through the school’s Multi-Tiered System of Support.
- Accountability measures may include phone confiscation or other consequences for non-compliance, aligned with each school’s policy.
- Responsibility for devices remains with the student; the district is not liable for lost, damaged, or stolen phones.
Coming This Summer: School-Specific Policies
Each principal will finalize their school’s specific cell phone expectations by July 1, 2025. Policies will be shared with families before the start of the new school year and available on the school’s website.
In Summary
91ÊÓƵ³ÉÈËÍøÕ¾ believes technology should support, not disrupt, education. This policy ensures that cell phones are only used in ways that benefit students and their learning. Together, we can create schools where every student has the opportunity to succeed without unnecessary distractions.
Watch for more information from your school about specific policies surrounding phone use between now and the start of school on Monday, August 25, 2025.
This blog post is a summary for 91ÊÓƵ³ÉÈËÍøÕ¾ families.