Cell Phone Policy Details and Information

Parents, we want to remind you of the updated Mobile Communication Device Policy (Policy 5131.8 and Regulation 5131.8) that will be in effect for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. This comprehensive policy has been developed to cultivate an environment of focused learning, interpersonal connection, and safety. By limiting distractions and promoting engaged classrooms, we hope to enhance our students' social-emotional well-being and encourage appropriate technology use, aligning with our vision for every NVUSD graduate.

Our Board of Education recognizes that while mobile communication devices (cell phones) can be beneficial in some circumstances, they can also be disruptive to learning. This updated policy reflects our commitment to balancing these aspects.

For Grades TK-8 Schools:

• Cell phones, smartphones, earbuds, and other mobile communication devices must be off and stored in the student's backpack all day while on campus or during school-approved field trips.
• Smartwatches may be worn, but their wireless/cellular features (e.g., calls, texts) must be turned off (airplane mode) during the school day.

NVUSD will be engaging in a “cell phone" campaign to educate families about the potential negative impacts of early cell phone use on student development and learning.

For Grades 9-12 Schools:

• Cell phones, smartphones, and other mobile communication devices will be collected at the beginning of every class period and stored in a common phone caddy at the front of the classroom. Devices will be returned to students at the end of each class period.
• Earbuds are not permitted during class periods.
• Mobile communication devices and one earbud are permitted during lunchtimes and passing times, with the strict exception that use is prohibited in all locker rooms and bathrooms.

Important Exceptions - Students will be permitted to use a mobile communication device in the following specific circumstances:

• In the case of an emergency or in response to a perceived threat of danger.
• When a teacher, administrator, or other district employee grants permission, subject to any reasonable limitations.
• When a licensed physician or surgeon determines that possession or use is necessary for the student's health and well-being.
• When possession or use is required by the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) and/or 504 plan.

Safety and Privacy Expectations:

• Prohibited Content: Students are not allowed to access or share any inappropriate content, including anything threatening, obscene, disruptive, sexually explicit, or that could be construed as harassment or disparagement of others.
• Privacy and Respect: Using devices in any manner that infringes on the privacy rights of others is strictly prohibited. Taking photos or videos of classmates, peers, and staff without permission is not allowed on school property or during school-related activities.
• Videotaping misconduct is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action, including unlawful use in restrooms, locker rooms, or on school buses.
• Using, producing, distributing, or receiving profanity, obscenity, or material that bullies, harasses, offends, threatens, or degrades others is strictly prohibited, including the use of artificial intelligence to impersonate others.

Parent and Student Expectations:

• Parents/guardians should not contact their student on their personal device during the school day. For urgent messages, please contact the school office, and staff will facilitate communication.
• Students must comply with staff directives regarding device use. Violations may result in disciplinary action.
• Students and families/guardians must read these regulations and acknowledge them as part of the data confirmation process.
• Students are responsible for adhering to these regulations and securing their belongings. The district will not be responsible or liable for lost, stolen, or damaged devices brought to school.
• Progressive disciplinary actions will be taken consistently across the district for violations, as outlined in the Napa Valley Unified School District’s Parent Guide to Student Discipline.

We believe this updated policy will foster a more focused and engaging learning environment for all our students, while also promoting responsible digital citizenship. We appreciate your partnership in implementing these new guidelines for the benefit of our entire school community.