San Diego Schools Propose New Cell Phone Policy

Students enjoying a distraction-free classroom environment, adhering to the proposed cell phone policy.

News Summary

The San Diego Unified School District has proposed a new policy to restrict cell phone use in schools, following California’s Phone-Free School Act. Middle school students will not be allowed to use their phones at all, while high school students can use them during designated times. The district is seeking parent feedback until May 30, with implementation planned for August 2025. The new regulations aim to reduce distractions and improve student engagement in a conducive learning environment.

San Diego – The San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) has put forth a proposed new policy aimed at restricting cell phone use in schools, in compliance with California’s newly enacted Phone-Free School Act, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom last year. This legislation requires all school districts across the state to implement policies that limit or prohibit cell phone use by July 1, 2026.

The proposed policy outlines specific regulations for both middle and high school students. Under the new guidelines, middle school students will not be allowed to use their cell phones during school hours. High school students, on the other hand, will have more flexibility—they will be permitted to use their phones during lunchtime, passing periods, and before or after school. During class, high school students may utilize their devices only with written permission from the principal.

Further stipulations in the policy indicate that while cell phones will be generally restricted, exceptions will be made for devices such as AirPods and smartwatches, which teachers may allow at their discretion. Should a student need to use their phone for an emergency, they can request permission through school staff or the main office.

Superintendent Fabi Bagula is actively seeking parent feedback regarding the proposed policy until May 30. The district plans to have the board of trustees review and approve the policy during the summer of 2025, with implementation scheduled for August 11, 2025, across the district.

To gather comprehensive input, Dr. Bagula consulted with students, noting that student engagement plays a crucial role in minimizing phone usage. The proposal reflects the district’s observations that cell phones can often be sources of distraction, addiction, disruption, and can exacerbate issues like cyberbullying.

Historically, the district has enforced cell phone policies, emphasizing their importance last year. In line with the new regulations, there will be proposed consequences for violations, including the potential confiscation of phones until the class period ends, or until a parent retrieves the device.

As part of the efforts to address the impact of cell phones, the district plans to inform parents about how smartphone use affects child development and encourage discussions within families about responsible usage.

With the projected policy updates, SDUSD aims to create a more focused educational environment while adhering to state laws designed to promote a conducive learning atmosphere in schools. The district’s approach appears to align with broader trends in educational settings seeking to mitigate the effects of digital distractions on student engagement and well-being.