Cell Phone Ban

On July 2, 2025, Governor Kotek signed Executive Order NO. 25-09 establishing a personal electronic device policy for all Oregon public school districts.  The goal of the order is to promote student well-being and sense of belonging by reducing distractions and fostering healthy, focused school environments.

The distraction that personal electronic devices bring to the learning environment, coupled with the adverse effects these devices can have on student mental health and vision, has been a topic of national conversation for several years. Specifically, research has shown that personal electronic device use and social media can increase feelings of loneliness, depression, self-harm, and suicide, and there have been increasing rates of eye strain, which can impact vision. In school classrooms and hallways, the use of personal electronic devices has contributed to interpersonal conflict, fights, online harassment, reduced building safety (students giving access to students from other schools), and bullying.

The Governor's order defines a “Personal Electronic Device” as a portable, electrically powered device that can make or receive calls, send or receive text messages, or access the Internet independently from the school's network. This includes smartphones, smartwatches, and smart eyeglasses.

It is always best that students leave their cell phones at home. However, we also understand that this is not always possible. Students are expected to do the following:

• Students must keep their devices either in their backpacks, lockers, or at home throughout the school day.
• Devices must remain off or in silent mode and may not be accessed during school hours, including recess, passing periods, and lunch breaks.
• If students ride the bus to and from school, they may access their devices.
• Students may not access their devices during a school-sponsored field trip if it occurs during the school day.

Parents, we understand that this new requirement will take some adjustment, so we need your assistance. Sometimes you need to contact your student. However, contacting students during class can create a temptation for them and disrupt their learning. When you need to contact your student, please call the office anytime. Messages will be delivered to the class. If necessary, your student can contact you from the office phone.  It will be helpful for you to review these changes with your student before school begins.

There are some rare instances where a personal electronic device is needed, including for medical monitoring ordered by a doctor, an individual education plan accommodation, or an approved exemption based on a student’s individual needs. It is often the case, however, that even when a request is made, school staff can find reasonable alternatives that meet the student’s needs. Requests for a personal electronic device exception must be submitted in writing to the school principal.

As stated in the Executive Order, students who violate this policy are subject to disciplinary action. Discipline for having or using a personal electronic device may not include loss of instructional time for the student, but could include a range of other consequences. However, if a student violates another policy through the use of their device (such as online bullying), the student may be subject to consequences up to and including expulsion.

Students who do not comply with the district policy may be subject to consequences as outlined in the Student Safety and Discipline Handbook.  Further interventions to help a student remember and meet the technology expectations include, but are not limited to the list below:

First Incident: Staff will give a verbal reminder of the policy and expectations. In some circumstances, staff may choose to confiscate the phone until the end of the day.

Second Incident:  The device will be temporarily confiscated and held at the front office until the end of the school day, and a behavior incident will be recorded. Parents or caregivers will be notified, and a meeting with school administration may be required. The school staff may ask that a parent pick up the phone.

Third Incident: The device will be temporarily held until the end of the day, and a behavior incident report will be completed.  The school staff may ask that a parent come pick up the phone. A meeting with the school administration and family will be arranged to review the policy and plan for improved compliance.

Beyond the Third Incident: If the behavior incidents continue, schools will determine additional appropriate consequences, while prioritizing keeping students in class and learning. A major referral will be written, and an administrator will assign consequences.

Our goal is always to partner with families so that when changes like this come, we can work together to support our students. If you have questions or thoughts, please feel free to contact us. Good luck with the start of the new school year.