San Diego Unified rolls out cell phone restrictions in schools
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San Diego Unified has unveiled a proposed policy restricting cell phone use in schools, after a new state law last year required all districts to do so.
Why it matters: Cell phones in school have been documented as distracting, addictive, disruptive and as contributors to cyberbullying.
Yes, but: Regulating them has proven difficult as many parents see them as critical to safety during emergencies, particularly school shootings.
How it works: SDUSD's new draft policy prohibits cell phone use for middle school students during school hours, but allows high schoolers to use them if a teacher receives a written note from the school's principal.
- High schoolers can use their phones between periods and during lunch, and every classroom must have a storage system with slots for each student.
- Middle schoolers' cells must remain off and in their backpacks or in designated classroom pouches.
What they're saying: Superintendent Fabi Bagula, in a letter to parents asking for feedback on the proposal, said the district created the policy after analyzing California's "Phone-Free School Act" from last year.
- "While many campuses already have restrictions in place, enforcement and expectations vary widely. This inconsistency creates confusion and inequity," she wrote.
- Students, families and staff indicated the need for a consistent, districtwide approach, she said.
Flashback: District officials last year stressed that they already had a policy in place.
What's next: After accepting feedback through the end of the month, the district expects the board of trustees to adopt the policy this summer.
- It would go into effect on Aug. 11, per Bagula's message.