Student use of cell phones and other devices at school

Cell phones and other electronic devices are a distraction for students, and school districts across the country are enacting stronger regulations to limit student access to mobile phones and other devices during the school day. In Stamford Public Schools, use of cell phones and other electronic devices is governed by BOE Policy 5131.81, which was adopted in August 2022. The associate superintendents for elementary, middle school, and high school met with school principals this summer to review the existing policy, discuss strengthening regulations by level, and develop consistent disciplinary policies for students who do not follow the District’s cell phone policy.

When school opens next week, the following regulations will be in effect:

Elementary School: The use of cell phones and other electronic devices is prohibited unless directed by the principal. If your child brings a cell phone, smart watch, or other electronic device to school, it must be silenced and stored in their backpack for the entire school day. Parents who need to reach their child during the school day should call the main office.

Middle School: The use of cell phones and other electronic devices is prohibited unless directed by the principal. If your child brings a cell phone, smart watch, or other electronic device to school, it must be silenced and stored in their backpack for the entire school day. Parents who need to reach their child during the school day should call the main office.

High School: Students must silence and store their cell phones and other electronic devices during instructional time. Classrooms are now equipped with over-the-door storage pockets where students may place their phones during each class. Phones should not be visible during class time. Phones and other electronic devices may be used during lunch, transitions between classes, and other times students are not receiving instruction. Students who require cell phones or other electronic devices as part of an IEP or 504 plan may use their devices as outlined in their educational plan.

Please share this information with your children before the first day of school. Principals and other administrators will be reviewing these regulations with students next week. Parents/guardians should also share with students that BOE policy prohibits the use of cell phones or other electronic devices in certain situations and for specific purposes, including:

• In locker rooms, restrooms, or anywhere else a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy
• To send harassing, threatening, or intimidating messages or images
• To bully another person
• To invade a person’s privacy
• To take pictures of someone without their consent
• To make video or audio recordings of anyone while on school property, school busses, or at school-sponsored events, without the principal’s permission
• To cheat or otherwise violate academic integrity
• In violation of copyright laws

Thank you in advance for your support and cooperation.

Stamford Public Schools