Off and Away All Day

Off and Away All Day Cell Phone Guidance

In alignment with Executive Order 25-09, North Wasco County School District will implement a new district-wide policy limiting the use of personal electronic devices (PEDs) during the school day. This initiative is part of a statewide effort to improve student learning, mental health, and engagement by reducing classroom distractions.

The policy prohibits the use of personal electronic devices (including phones, smartwatches, earbuds, tablets, etc.), throughout the school day, except when explicitly authorized through a student’s IEP, 504 Plan, health plan, or another exemption approved by the school or district.  School-issued computers are not included within this ban.

Devices must be turned off or silenced and stored from the first bell to the last bell.

**High school students may use their devices during their lunch period.

New Cell Phone Policy

1. Storage During School Hours
   Students who bring cell phones must keep them in their locker, backpack, or other designated location; all devices must be turned off or silenced throughout the day.
   
   
2. Enforcement of Policy
   If a student is found using a device outside of permitted times, it will be taken to the building administrator. Parents will be notified, and the device will be returned to the student and/or parent/guardian at the end of the instructional day. Additional instances may be subject to further disciplinary action.

Why This Policy?

• Improved learning focus: Research shows that reducing device use increases student focus, engagement, and test scores.
  
  
• Social-emotional benefits: Limiting distractions can reduce stress, anxiety, and negative social comparisons.

Student Safety & Communication

Student safety is always our top priority. In an emergency, schools will contact families immediately. Parents can also call the school office at any time to connect with their child. Our district also has a robust emergency alert system for school-wide situations.

Accommodations

We recognize that some students use cell phones for medical purposes, such as blood sugar monitoring. Accommodations will be made as necessary but must be outlined in the student’s medical plan.