On Tuesday, June 10, the Board of Education adopted revisions to Board Policy 5138 - Student Possession and Use of Portable Electronic Devices. The changes were recommended by the Board of Education Policy Committee to encourage a positive, healthy learning environment in schools, support the physical and mental well-being of students, and promote academic rigor. A districtwide policy is intended to create consistency in the wireless communication devices rules between schools and grade levels.

BP 5138  STUDENT USE OF WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICES

• "Wireless communication device” is defined as a portable device that has the capability to provide voice, messaging, or other data communication between two or more parties and includes cellular phones, smartwatches, wireless headphones, tablet computers, laptop computers, and gaming devices.
• For all students (grades K-12) wireless communication devices should be powered off and stored in a secure place, such as the student’s locker or a closed backpack, at all times during school hours. This includes passing periods and school sponsored and supervised activities (e.g., school assemblies, public ceremonies, etc.) that occur during the school day.
• Students in grades K-8 may only use wireless communication devices before and after school hours. High school students (grades 9-12) may use wireless communication devices before and after school hours, as well as outside the school building during a student’s lunch or free period.
• Exceptions are allowed for students to use a wireless communication device for medical or translation purposes, in the event of an emergency, or when a teacher or administrator of the school grants permission to a student to use a wireless communication device for educational purposes.
• This policy is not intended to prohibit students from using laptop computers to participate in instruction.
• This policy is also not intended to limit the ability of students to participate in online classes.
• This does not apply to extracurricular activities and events that occur outside of the regular school day.
• Use of wireless communication devices for students with disabilities will be outlined in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 plan, as determined appropriate by the IEP or 504 Team.
• Students will comply with this policy and with administrative and staff member directives regarding use. Students are required to turn wireless communication devices over to school personnel when requested. Students who refuse to do so are subject to disciplinary action.

Read the full policy. These rules will be in effect when the new school year starts in August. Further details about wireless communications devices will be included in the Back to School communications for the 2025-26 school year.