Setting the Record Straight: AJUSD New Digital Device Policy

In June, the AJUSD School Board implemented a new district policy to manage the use of digital/wireless communication devices during the school day, which will go into effect for the 2024/2025 school year. It's important to note that this is not a “cell phone ban.” Students are allowed to have cell phones, but they must be turned off and put away during instructional time. This policy aligns with the evolving landscape of education, as a growing number of schools nationwide are restricting non-academic cell phone use. According to a report from the 2021-2022 school year, more than three-quarters of U.S. K-12 public schools already prohibit non-academic cell phone use.

Recent UNESCO research highlights the negative impact of smartphones on learning, including causing distractions and fostering social isolation. Simply having a mobile phone nearby with notifications can disrupt students' attention. One study found that once distracted, it can take students up to 20 minutes to refocus on their learning.

The goal of our new Digital Device Policy is to create distraction-free classrooms and enhance student engagement. We will evaluate the impact of these changes on testing outcomes and overall student performance to guide future decisions.

Below, you will find Q & A related to the policy and links to recent media on the topic.

Digital Device Policy Q & A

Q: Is this new policy a cell phone ban?

A: No, it is not a ban. Students can have cell phones, but they must be turned off and put away during instruction time.

Q: Why is this policy being implemented?

A: The policy aims to create distraction-free classrooms and enhance student engagement. Research shows that limiting non-academic cell phone use can improve learning outcomes and reduce distractions.

Q: When does this policy go into effect?

A: The policy will be effective starting July 17th for the 2024/2025 school year.

Q: How will this policy be enforced?

A: Teachers and staff will remind students of the policy and ensure that cell phones are turned off and put away during instruction time. Repeated violations may result in disciplinary action in accordance with guidelines set by the school the student is attending.

Q: What if I need to contact my child during the school day?

A: In case of an emergency, you can contact the school office, and they will relay the message to your child or call your student to the office phone to speak with you.

Q: Will students still have access to technology for learning?

A: Yes, students will still have access to school-provided technology for educational purposes. The policy specifically targets non-academic digital device use.

Q: How will the impact of this policy be measured?

A: We will evaluate the policy’s impact on testing outcomes and overall student performance to inform future decisions.

Q: Where can I find more information about this policy?

A: Information will be distributed to students at the start of the school year, and will be incorporated into the student code of conduct for the 2024/2025 school year.

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