District news
Phones banned from first bell to last bell
What happened
A new rule, adopted August 3, 2026, bans phones, smartwatches, wireless headphones and other connected devices for PreK-8 students all school day. Devices must be turned off and put away. Before, students could have phones as long as they did not disrupt class.
Why it matters to families
Students cannot carry or use their phones at school, even at lunch. Breaking the rule can mean losing the phone for the day or more serious discipline. Students with a health plan, IEP or 504 plan can get exceptions.
The evidence
Policy JICJ, amended August 3, 2026, gives the ban, the exceptions and the consequences.
The source
Policy JICJ: Cell Phones and Other Personal Electronic Devices in SchoolsSee the full record for MSAD 53 (RSU 53).
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