The USD 308 Board of Education has adopted a new district-wide policy on student use of cell phones, headphones, and earbuds, set to take effect with the 2025–2026 school year. The policy, approved over the summer, outlines clear guidelines tailored by grade level and is included in the updated student handbooks for elementary, middle, and high school students.
According to the policy, all students in grades K–6 will be required to turn off and store their cell phones and audio devices in their backpacks upon entering school and keep them stowed until the end of the school day.
Middle school students in grades 7–8 will follow a similar rule, with devices turned off and kept in backpacks or lockers for the duration of the school day.
High school and alternative school students will have more flexibility, but with boundaries. While students may possess personal cell phones and headphones, devices must remain out of sight and in silent mode during class time. However, usage will be permitted before school, during lunch, passing periods, and after school.
The policy also includes accommodations for students with documented medical or educational needs requiring device access, such as for medical monitoring or language interpretation apps. These exceptions will be outlined in individual education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans.
Full details of the policy are available in the student handbooks posted online at www.usd308.com/handbooks.
District officials say the policy is designed to promote focused learning environments while still allowing students appropriate access to their personal devices during designated times.