Per CCSD 89 policy, cell phones and other personal electronic devices must remain out of sight and may not be used during the school day. While recent state legislation mandating this takes effect in 2027–28, our district policy is already active. Devices must be put away throughout the instructional day unless an approved exception is documented with the district.

This policy helps to minimize distractions, disruptions and privacy concerns. Thank you for your support in keeping our classrooms focused on learning.

FAQs for Parents and Students

Can cell phones and personal devices be used before and after school?

Yes, students are permitted to use all personal communication devices, including cell phones, before and after school. Cell phones must be kept powered off or silenced and out of sight during the regular school day.

Where should students keep cell phones and personal devices during the school day?

Cell phones and other personal electronic devices (excluding smart watches) should not be visible throughout the school day. Devices should be kept in a backpack, purse, or locker unless CCSD 89 has a district-approved waiver that your student needs the device for qualifying reasons. 

Can my student wear a smart watch during the school day?

Watches are permitted to be worn during the school day as long as all notifications are turned off and all sounds silenced. (Consider Airplane Mode or Do Not Disturb on smart watches as easy options to ensure there are no interruptions.)

If students receive notifications on their smart watches during the day or are seen using their watch to communicate, the same behavior consequences will apply as do for cell phone use during the school day. Behavior consequences are outlined below.

What should students and families do if they need to communicate during the school day?

If parents or families need to reach their student during the school day, they should contact the school’s main office. The front office staff can deliver a message to your student and will ensure it is received promptly.

If students need to communicate with their families during the school day, such as for a forgotten item, change of plans or other concern, students may visit the main office for assistance and to make a phone call.

What if my child uses their phone to manage a medical condition?

Students who require access to a device for documented medical reasons will continue to receive appropriate accommodations in accordance with their medical plan (such as a Section 504 Plan or Individualized Health Plan). Families should complete the CCSD 89 Student Use of Personal Technology Waiver on an annual basis to request the exemption. Completed forms should be returned to your school's main office. Please contact the school nurse or administration with any questions.

What if my child uses their phone for an approved academic reason?

Students who require access to a device for an approved academic reason will continue to receive appropriate accommodations in accordance with their individualized education program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan. Families should complete the CCSD 89 Student Use of Personal Technology Waiver on an annual basis to request the exemption. Completed forms should be returned to your school's main office. No documentation is needed with the form but the district does require the signed waiver on file.

What if there is an emergency and I want to communicate with my child immediately?

Student safety remains our highest priority. If there is a personal or family emergency that requires immediate communication with your child, please contact the school’s main office for assistance. Staff can help you get in touch with your child right away.

In the event of a perceived school emergency, we understand every parent's first instinct is to communicate with their child as quickly as possible. However, during an active emergency, immediate phone communication is not always the safest option. Phone use can inadvertently compromise safety by spreading misinformation, creating distractions, or making it more difficult for students to hear and follow staff directions.

During any emergency, the school will communicate directly with parents through our established emergency communication procedures. Our first priority will always be ensuring the safety of students and staff while providing families with accurate, timely information.

What happens if a student uses their cell phone or personal device during the school day?

If a student does not follow the expectation as outlined above, the following progressive consequences will apply. These are the same consequences that were in place at Glen Crest Middle School last year that will be applied across all schools in CCSD 89. Repeated refusal to adhere to the policy may result in additional disciplinary consequences.

Behavior Consequences:

• 1st Violation:

  Student receives a warning.

• 2nd & 3rd Violations:

  The device is removed from the classroom and held in the main office for the student to pick up at the end of day. The student’s parent/guardian is notified.

• 4th Violation:

  The device is removed from the classroom and held in the main office. The

  student’s parent/guardian is notified and asked to pick up the student’s device.