Next Year Update: Student Use of Cell Phones at School

Dear LCSD Families:

I hope this finds you well and enjoying the end of the school year! This is the first of a few updates we will be providing about next year and some exciting work we have coming up. Today’s update is regarding cell phones in our schools.

This year, the Colorado State Legislature passed a bill (HB25-1135) requiring school districts to adopt a policy regarding cell phone use in schools. In addition, as you recall, this winter we formed a Cell Phone Policy Committee to look at the use of cell phones in our schools and make recommendations to the Board of Education for changes next year. We are excited about the positive changes these recommendations can make in our schools, as we believe they will help students be more focused on learning, and improve overall mental health. We also realize that these changes will require a period of adjustment. 

We had over 15 teachers and parents on this committee. The committee did extensive stakeholder engagement to collect input on their recommendations, including a survey to all LCSD staff, students and families (see results here).

Now, the committee is ready to present their recommendations to the Board of Education. The committee will present to the Board on June 9th. After considering the latest research and input from the LCSD community, the committee is recommending that our schools move closer to being “phone free” for students. If the Board approves these recommendations, changes will go into effect in August 2025.

Summary of Recommendations

The Cell Phone Policy Committee is making the following district policy recommendations regarding the use of Student Communication Devices (SCDs), such as cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, and similar electronic devices. This policy is designed to ensure that these devices do not interfere with student learning or school operations. It will also make us compliant with the new law, HB25-1135.

Key Policy Recommendations:

Grade PreK–8 Students

• Use of SCDs will not be allowed at any time during the school day, including instructional time, lunch, recess, and passing periods.
• All devices must be turned off and stored in designated areas or containers until dismissal.

Grade 9–12 Students

• SCDs will be prohibited during instructional time and must be turned off and stored in designated containers until dismissal.
• Use during passing periods and school-sponsored activities during the school day is also prohibited.
• Use is allowed during lunch, though discouraged.

Exceptions
Students with documented needs (under an IEP, 504 Plan, or ADA accommodations) may use SCDs as necessary for communication or medical purposes.

In Emergencies

Teachers and school staff will still have phone access. Students in grades 7-12 will be encouraged to communicate with their parents using email if needed. We are working on building-level plans to ensure that emergency plans align with best practices and prioritize clear and effective communications.

Violations

• Misuse of SCDs may result in temporary confiscation of the device.
• A meeting with parents may be required before the device is returned.

We have two events planned in the coming weeks to help educate students and families about these recommendations:

• LCHS Student Community Meetings – We will be educating LCHS students on the committee’s recommendations during community meetings this week and next.
• Parent Q&A, June 2, 2025 – All families are invited to a question and answer session about these recommendations at 5:30 pm on June 2, 2025 at the Full Circle Office, 115 East 7th Street. Interpretation will be available. Please join us!

I want to thank the members of the Cell Phone Policy Committee for their amazing work during this process, and for being so thoughtful and considerate of multiple viewpoints.

Cheers,

Kate

Kate Bartlett, Superintendent