Waterford High School Launches Pilot Cell Phone Policy for 2025–26
This school year, Waterford High School is introducing a pilot cell phone policy in response to the new state “Phone-Free School Act” (AB 3216), which requires all districts to limit or prohibit smartphone use during the school day.
The law is based on growing research showing the negative impact of excessive phone use on student learning and mental health. Studies from the Pew Research Center, Common Sense Media, and the U.S. Surgeon General point to smartphones as a major classroom distraction and a contributor to increased anxiety, depression, and social isolation among teens. State leaders, including Governor Gavin Newsom, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, have called the measure an important step toward improving academic focus and strengthening in-person connections.
At WHS, the new policy reflects student input gathered last year through surveys and discussions. Phones must be silenced and put away during class but are allowed during lunch and break. Exceptions are made for students who use medical monitoring apps or need immediate access in true emergencies.
Throughout the year, WHS staff will collect feedback from students, families, and teachers to help refine the policy .
FAQs
Q: Why is WHS making this change now?
This change is driven by AB 3216, the “Phone-Free School Act,” which requires all schools in California to limit or prohibit student smartphone use. The state cites extensive research linking excessive phone use to lower academic performance, increased mental health issues, and decreased in-person engagement.
Q: What exactly does the new policy say?
Phones must be silenced and stored out of sight during class time. Students may use them during lunch and break or if they have a documented medical need (such as a glucose monitor) or a true emergency.
Q: How does this benefit students?
Reducing in-class phone use minimizes distractions, protects instructional time, and fosters more meaningful face-to-face interactions. It also addresses growing concerns about the impact of constant notifications and social media use on student mental health.
Q: Will students still be able to contact parents if needed?
Yes. In true emergencies, students can access their phones, and families can always call the main office if urgent contact is required during class time.
Q: How was this policy decided?
WHS spent last year gathering student feedback through a survey and informal discussions. The pilot policy reflects their input, balancing the need for focus during instruction with flexibility during non-class time.
Q: Is this permanent?
Not yet. This is a pilot year, and WHS will collect data and feedback to make any necessary adjustments moving forward. However, WHS must comply with the new state law (AB 3216), which requires schools to limit or prohibit student smartphone use during the school day. While the specific details of our approach may evolve, some form of restricted phone use will remain in place to meet state requirements.
Q: What role can parents play in making this successful?
Parents can help by reinforcing the importance of being present and engaged during the school day and discussing healthy phone use habits with their students.
If you have any questions or concerns about the new cell phone policy, please contact the school office.