Lawton Student Cellphone Use Expectations

We understand that some families may want their students to have cell phones or smartwatches for emergencies. To ensure everyone is aware of our school rules regarding devices, here is our policy:

• Students bring devices to school at their own risk.
• Devices like cell phones and smartwatches, which can make calls, take photos, text, or play games/music, are not allowed to be used during school hours (7:55 a.m. to 2:25 p.m.).
• Students should keep their phones or smartwatches in their backpacks during school.
• If a student feels sick or needs to contact a parent, they should talk to a staff member who can help them communicate through school channels.
• If students use their devices during the school day, staff will take them away. The student can pick up their device at the end of the school day.

SPS Student Use of Personal Device Policy

On May 13, 2024, the Superintendent authorized an update to Superintendent Procedure 2022SP – Electronic Resources/Use of the Internet. Here is a link to our updated procedure: Superintendent Procedure 2022SP 

This procedure updates the Student Use of Personal Device Policy (formerly known as: Bring Your Own Device (BYOD).   

Based on the May 2024 updated Superintendent Procedure 2022SP, only SPS-issued laptops are permitted for use in classroom instruction, assignments, assessments, and testing, based on the following reason(s): 

• Having a standard device for every student helps ensure fairness and consistency in the classroom.
• Personal devices cannot be managed or supported on the district’s network.
• Some programs and apps used in class cannot be installed on personal devices due to licensing agreements.
• Personal devices might not have the same safety features to prevent inappropriate online behavior.
• Students do not have the right to bring and use personal electronic devices (like laptops or tablets) at school unless there is an approved need, such as assistive technology.
• The district manages updates and provides security for district devices.  
• The district’s wireless network works best with district-issued devices, which are designed for high-density school environments.

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Supporting Focused Learning: New Districtwide Student Cellphone Procedure Begins May 4

Beginning Monday, May 4, Seattle Public Schools will implement a districtwide student cellphone use procedure across all schools.

We want to share why this change is being made and how it supports students.

What to Expect

The procedure reflects students’ developmental needs:

• Grades K–8: Phones will be “Away for the Day”, not accessible during school hours. 
• Grades 9–12: Phones will be “No Cell Bell to Bell”. Phones will be kept away during class, with limited access during lunch and passing periods.

This approach protects learning time while helping older students build responsible device habits.

School leaders will retain flexibility in storage routines and tools while maintaining the same expectations districtwide. Please be on the lookout for a letter from your school leader that explains your school’s storage routine.

Why This Change

Until now, cellphone expectations have varied from school to school, which has been confusing for families and inconsistent for students. Our goal is to ensure all students have the same clear, fair expectations and the best possible conditions for learning, no matter which school they attend.

What We Learned

District review, pilot schools, and feedback from students, families, and educators showed consistent results:

• When phones are kept away during instruction, students are more engaged and better able to focus 
• Fewer distractions lead to calmer classrooms and stronger learning experiences 

Research reinforces what schools see every day. Cellphones, even when not actively used, can interrupt attention, lower academic performance, and make it harder for students to refocus. Cellphone use can also contribute to increased stress, cyberbullying, and other well‑being concerns.

Supporting All Students

Students who need access to a device for medical needs or documented IEP or Section 504 accommodations will continue to receive those supports.

This procedure is not about punishment; it is about creating focused, supportive learning environments and clear expectations for everyone. Thank you for partnering with us to help students learn, connect, and thrive.

If you have questions, please contact us using Let’s Talk.

With appreciation,

Bev Redmond  
Chief of Staff and Public Affairs  
Seattle Public Schools