Phone-Free School Day Policy
San Diego Unified School District has new guidelines for mobile phone use on school campuses to help to minimize student distractions, elevate academic performance and prioritize students' mental health and well-being. San Diego Unified’s guidelines were developed in accordance with California's Phone-Free School Act (Assembly Bill 3216), and after seeking significant input from students, parents, and educators. It was approved by the Board of Education on July 8, 2025 and will be in effect beginning the first day of the 2025-26 school year.
This overview provides you with essential information about the policy changes that will impact your student’s school site.
Key Points:
- New district-wide policy applies to all grades Transitional Kindergarten - 12th Grade
- Phones must be turned off during the instructional program and be kept out of sight, such as in a student’s backpack.
- Implementation: August 11, 2025 (first day of school)
Policy At-A-Glance
What's Prohibited
✗ Phone use during regular school hours (per your school's bell schedule)
✗ Phones visible during instructional time
✗ Disruptive use during permitted times
What's Allowed
✓ All students: Before first bell, after dismissal, on buses, during extracurriculars
✓ High school only: Lunch and passing periods
✓ Emergency situations
✓ Health/IEP/504 plan needs
✓ Teacher-authorized instructional use
Other Devices
- Earbuds, headphones, smartwatches allowed in high school (teacher discretion)
- Must not disrupt instructional time
Enforcement Overview
Approach: Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) + Restorative Justice Practices
Progressive Steps:
- Verbal reminders
- Counselor referral
- Parent contact
- Phone retention (instructional time or full day)
- Event/activity restrictions for ongoing violations
Resources & Support
Review complete guidelines and procedures