Phones locked away all school day under new policy

What happened

On July 8, 2026, the board approved Policy 524.5. Students may not use phones, smart watches, earbuds, headphones or tablets from the first bell to the last bell, including lunch and passing time. Devices go in a locked box at school.

Why it matters to families

This changes every student's school day. A student who breaks the rule can get a warning, have the device taken, or need a parent to come pick it up. Students can still call home from the school office.

The evidence

The July 8, 2026 minutes record the board approving Policy 524.5 on second reading. The 2026-27 student/parent handbook, approved August 12, gives the bell-to-bell rule, the lock-box storage and the consequences.

The source