Personal Electronic Device Policy

We know that personal devices are a big part of everyday life — but in schools, they are often a major source of distraction, disruption, and disconnection. That’s why many states, including ours, have supported and implemented no personal electronic device policies during the school day.

Here’s why this is a positive and necessary step for all students:

Improved Focus – Without phones or other personal devices, students are more present, more engaged, and better able to focus on learning.

Stronger Social Connections – Face-to-face conversations and peer-to-peer interactions help students build friendships and healthier social connections.

Improved Mental Health – Limiting screen time during the school day reduces exposure to social media, helping ease anxiety, stress, and overstimulation.

Fewer Conflicts – Schools that have adopted similar policies report fewer issues related to online drama, cyberbullying, and peer conflict.

More Time in Class – Students are spending more time where they should be — in classrooms — rather than taking coordinated breaks, extended bathroom visits, or wandering hallways with devices.

We recognize that adjusting to this policy may come with challenges, and we are here to support students and families in that transition. However, those challenges are outweighed by the harmful impact personal devices have had on students and school environments — academically, socially, and emotionally.

This policy is about creating the best possible learning environment for all students — and we thank you for being a part of that effort.

OFF and AWAY at all times:

The policy applies to cell phones, tablets, smart watches, and earbuds/headphones.
Before students enter through the school doors, their devices need to be put away in their backpacks or personal bags. It cannot be in their pockets.
This includes passing times, walking in the hallways, and during lunch in the building.

What if a student has an IEP or 504 that includes personal electronic devices?

For students whose IEP or 504 Plan includes supports such as headphones for noise reduction or focus, these accommodations will be honored.

Case managers & counselors will be reaching out to students and families to discuss how each student’s IEP or 504 Plan will be implemented while still following the updated personal device policy. Any additional personal devices required by a student’s plan will be reviewed individually, and a clear plan will be created and shared with staff.

As a school community, we have communicated our no personal device policy through multiple channels:

Informational messages and videos shared before the school year begins.
Signs posted at all school entrances and throughout the building.
Verbal reminders are given at the start of each class.
Schoolwide voice & visual announcements will be made at the beginning of the day and lunch.

What will happen if the device is seen (this includes pockets)?

First violation: device is confiscated, student can collect at the end of the day
Second violation: device is confiscated, parent or guardian must pick up
Third violation: device is confiscated, parent or guardian must pick up, student will be put on daily check-in of device at the office for a set period of time

More information can be found in our School Climate Plan and the MHS Behavior Matrix, found on our website.

Frequently Asked Questions

In order to be successful with PPSD’s PED (Personal Electronic Device) Policy, we developed this FAQ sheet. This may be updated several times this year as we navigate the implementation of this board-approved policy in a way that best serves our students. We appreciate your support. 

Q: Can I bring a Kindle (or some type of e-reader that has books electronically stored on it) so I can do silent reading in class when I’m done with all my work or my teacher gives me approval?

A: Yes, as long as the teacher gives you permission and you’re reading books. 

Q: I’m confused. Can I ever wear headphones? What kind of headphones are allowed? When are they allowed? Can I wear them as a decoration around my neck?

A: Wire headphones attached to the Chromebook are okay for a learning activity that the teacher approves. Do not assume your teacher is okay with this. Additionally, please adhere to the following guidelines:

Wireless headphones are allowed to connect with your Chromebook only if a teacher approves it.
You can also be on headphones in Study Hall as long as it’s connected to the Chromebook. IT CANNOT BE CONNECTED TO YOUR PHONE. We will take the headphones if you’re not actively on a Chromebook.
You cannot walk around the hallways with your headphones on. We will take them if you’re walking around with them on your neck if you do not have an accommodation that allows for this.

Q: Am I allowed to be on my phone or use headphones at lunch? 

A: Outside of the building, yes. Inside the building (Including the courtyards) PED are not allowed. 

Q: Am I allowed to be on my phone when I’m walking into school or heading out to leave? 

A: No, not until you are outside of the building. At 4:00, if you’re in a school based activity, you can then use your PEDs in the building.

Q: What happens for my 3rd Violation?

A: Your guardian needs to come pick up the device and then the following day, you start a plan where you turn in your device each day when you arrive. Then, you get it at the end of the day. 

Q: If I have to go on a plan because I’ve had 3 violations, how long does that plan last? Do I get a reset? 

A: It lasts one quarter and then you get a reset. 

Q: What if I need to call somebody in an emergency or about something important that is time sensitive? 

A: Go to the office and we will let you use our landline phones. 

Q:What about field trips? 

A: No, they are not allowed unless the field trip is after 4:00. 

Q: What if my coach needs to communicate with me about time or transportation changes for a game that day? How will I get that information? 

A: Coaches are not supposed to text students. They will use team snap, trivory or parent square…check your emails.

Q: Why do I get a violation if the phone is in my pocket? 

A: This is because the policy is that it needs to be off and away. Away means in a backpack, purse etc. We have a bag for you if you need one. 