Mobile Device Policy

 

This year, we’re putting phones and devices away so we can focus on what matters most - learning, connecting with friends, enjoying time together, and making the most of every moment at our schools.

The Governing Board recognizes that smart devices have a negative impact on student learning and mental health. Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, all students will be required to keep their phones, smart watches, or other mobile communication devices turned off and stored away "bell-to-bell" throughout the school day, including during lunch, nutrition and passing periods. The Governing Board believes this policy will foster a more engaging learning environment, reduce cyberbullying, and encourage face-to-face interactions among students. 

California Education Code 48901.7, as added by AB 272 (Ch. 42, Statutes of 2019), authorizes the Governing Board to limit or prohibit student use of smartphones while at school or while under the supervision and control of a district employee, except for specified purposes. In addition, Education Code 48901.5 authorizes the district to regulate the use of electronic signaling devices that operate through the transmission or receipt of radio waves unless essential for a student's health.

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE

When a student uses a mobile communication device in an unauthorized manner, the student may be disciplined, and a district employee may confiscate the device.  The employee shall store the device securely until it is returned to the student or turned over to the principal or designee, as appropriate. If a student refuses to relinquish their mobile communication device when asked by a staff member, the student will face progressive disciplinary action which may result in the student no longer being allowed to bring a cell phone to school. 

CONSEQUENCES FOR POLICY VIOLATIONS:

• First Infraction: The device will be confiscated by a staff member and turned in to an administrator. The device will be returned to the student at the end of the school day.
• Second Infraction: The device will be confiscated, and the parent or guardian must meet with the principal or designee to retrieve it. The student will lose behavior points, and the device may need to be checked into the office daily for one week.
• Third Infraction: The device will be confiscated, and the parent or guardian must retrieve it. The student may serve a detention and may be required to check the device into the office daily for one month. May result in a referral to district counseling or loss of off-campus privileges.
• Fourth and Subsequent Infractions: The device will be confiscated, and the student may be required to check the device into the office daily for the remainder of the semester or as specified by administration. Additional disciplinary actions, such as extended detention, school service hours, loss of off-campus privileges, etc. may apply. May result in a referral to District counseling.

EXCEPTIONS/LIMITED USE

The Board permits limited use of mobile communication devices on campus in accordance with law and this policy:

• In the case of an emergency, or in response to a perceived threat of danger
• If it is determined by a licensed physician and surgeon to be essential for the health of the pupil and use of which is limited to purposes related to the health of the pupil.
• When the possession or use is required by the student's individualized education program
• When a teacher or administrator of the school district, county office of education, or charter school grants permission to a pupil to possess or use a smartphone, subject to any reasonable limitation imposed by that teacher or administrator

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Frequently asked questions and answers are available here.