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When classrooms are cell phone free
Cell phone free classrooms support learning, mental health
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We are committed to equipping students with the skills needed to navigate technology responsibly, preparing them to balance cell phone use in their personal and professional lives. Setting boundaries and learning when and how to use technology responsibly now will help prepare them for future success.
The Parkway Board of Education has approved a policy to create cell phone-free classrooms starting with the 25-26 school year.
Learn more about the research and teacher, parent, and student feedback that shaped our decision here.
What this means
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Effective August, 2025
High Schools: Cell phones and other personal technology devices should not be seen or used during class.
- The use or display of cell phones or other personal electronic devices is prohibited during class time unless directed by a teacher for a specific instructional purpose.
- Students will place their phones in a designated classroom location and turn them off or put them in airplane mode during class.
- Cell phones are allowed during lunch, passing periods, and before and after school.
- Any device that disrupts the learning environment or is used without permission during school hours may be confiscated, and the student will be subject to disciplinary action.
- Exceptions are appropriate for students with a specific need for personal technology use outlined in an IEP or 504 plan, use for an approved instructional activity, or emergency use at the direction of school staff.
Elementary and Middle Schools: Cell phones and other personal technology devices should not be visible or used during the entire school day, including arrival, instructional time, lunch, recess, and dismissal.
- Students must keep all devices powered off and stored in backpacks or designated areas determined by the school administration.
- Any device that disrupts the learning environment or is used without permission during school hours may be subject to confiscation and the student to disciplinary action.
- Exceptions are appropriate for students with a specific need for personal technology use outlined in an IEP or 504 plan, use for an approved instructional activity, or emergency use at the direction of school staff.
Consequences: Students who do not comply with the policy will face disciplinary consequences outlined below and communicated in the student handbook.
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What if I need to reach my child during the school day?
You can always contact the main office, and a staff member will relay the message to your child. Parents should avoid contacting students when possible during class time. Consider contacting your child during their lunch or passing time between classes. You can also email your child using their Parkway-provided email address. We appreciate your partnership as we minimize distractions for students while learning.
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How will my child reach me if there is an emergency at school?
Teachers and staff would allow students to use personal technology devices in the event of an emergency at school. This process ensures the safety of all students while minimizing daily classroom disruptions.
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How can parents help support these expectations?
Have conversations with your child and ensure they are aware of these expectations. Contact your child during their lunch or passing period times if needed. If you need to reach your child during class time or if there is an emergency, you can call the school office or contact your child using their Parkway provided email address.
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What are the consequences for students if they do not comply with the restrictions?
High school students who choose not to comply with the policy will face disciplinary actions as outlined in the student handbook. These measures are designed to encourage cooperation while maintaining a positive classroom atmosphere.
- First offense: The student's electronic device will be confiscated by the faculty member and turned into the grade-level office. The device can be collected at the end of the day following a conference with the grade-level administrator.
- Second offense: The student will turn in their electronic device at the beginning of the day for (1) day.
- Third offense: The student will turn in their electronic device at the beginning of the day for (3) days.
- Fourth offense: The student will turn in their electronic device at the beginning of the day for (5) days
- Subsequent offenses: Offense could result in more serious consequences per the Parkway Student Discipline Policy, JG-R1.BP.
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What if my child relies on a personal device for health reasons?
We understand that some students may need access to their phones or smartwatches for health-related purposes, such as monitoring medical devices. School administration would work with students and families to ensure appropriate accommodations to meet the student’s medical needs.
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Can students use their phones for educational purposes?
If a teacher determines that a cell phone or other device is necessary for a specific activity or lesson, they can permit students to use their devices during that time.
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What if I need to reach my child during the school day?
You can always contact the main office, and a staff member will relay the message to your child.
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How would my child reach me if there is an emergency?
Teachers and staff would allow students to use personal technology devices in the event of an emergency at school. This process ensures the safety of all students while minimizing daily classroom disruptions.
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What if my child relies on a personal device for health reasons?
We understand that some students may need access to their phones or smartwatches for health-related purposes, such as monitoring medical devices. School administration would work with students and families to ensure appropriate accommodations to meet the student’s medical needs.
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What are the consequences for students if they do not comply with the restrictions?
Students who choose not to comply with the policy will face disciplinary actions as outlined in the student handbook. These measures are designed to encourage cooperation while maintaining a positive classroom atmosphere.
Middle School
First offense: Parent Notification
Second offense: Parent will pick up device at the end of the day
Third offense: Parent will pick up device at end of the day and a support plan
Fourth offense: Parent will pick up device at end of the day and detention or in-school suspension
Subsequent offenses: Parent will pick up device at end of the day, in-school or principals suspensionElementary School
First offense: Verbal warning: the student will put the device away
Second offense: The device will be sent to the principal's office; the student can pick up the device at the end of the school day and the parent/guardian will be contacted.
Third offense: The device will be sent to the principal's office; the parent/guardian will need to pick up the device
Subsequent offenses: Offense could result in more serious consequences per the Parkway Student Discipline Policy, JG-R1.BP
