Mobile Communications Devices Board Policy

 

New Board Policy 5131.8: Mobile Communication Devices

Effective Beginning the 2025–26 School Year

At Los Alamitos Unified School District, we are committed to fostering learning environments that are focused, connected, and free from unnecessary distractions. In response to feedback from families, staff, and community members — and to align with new California legislation requiring school districts to restrict mobile device use on campuses — the Board of Education has adopted a new Mobile Communication Devices Policy, which will take effect at the start of the 2025–26 school year.

This policy is designed to minimize distractions, promote student wellness, and help students be more engaged in their learning and connections with others throughout the school day.

What Families Need to Know

What is Considered a Mobile Device?

Cell phones, smartwatches, smart glasses, gaming devices, AirPods, earbuds, headphones, and similar personal technology.

Policy by Grade Level

Preschool, Elementary, & Middle School (Grades PK–8)

📵 No device use during the school day, including:

  • Class time

  • Recess

  • Lunch

  • Before/after-school programs or daycare

Devices must be turned off and stored out of sight (in backpacks or designated areas) while on campus.

High School (Grades 9–12)

📚 During instructional time (including class periods, tutorials, assemblies, and labs), devices must be turned off and stored out of sight.

⏰ Non-instructional time: High school students may responsibly use devices during passing periods, lunch, and other non-instructional times, following school site rules.

Important Expectations for All Students (Grades PK–12)

🚫 Devices are never permitted in restrooms, locker rooms, or areas where privacy is expected.
📞 Students needing to communicate with families during the school day should use the school’s main office phone. Families are asked not to text or call students during the school day.
🛑 Staff may confiscate devices used in violation of the policy and will follow site-specific protocols for return.
🔄 Repeated violations may result in progressive discipline aligned with the District’s conduct policies.
🎁 Staff may not allow device use as rewards or incentives.
❗ The District is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices brought to school or school events.

Legal Protections & Exceptions (California Law)

Students shall not be prohibited from using a mobile device under the following circumstances:
✔️ When a licensed physician or surgeon determines it is necessary for the student’s health or well-being.
✔️ When required by a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan.
✔️ In an emergency or perceived threat of danger.

Why This Policy?

This policy reflects:
✅ Feedback from families, staff, and community members seeking consistency and clarity.
✅ New California law requiring restrictions on device use during the school day.
✅ Guidance from education and mental health experts on minimizing distractions, enhancing learning, and supporting student wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did the District adopt this policy?

To create more focused, connected, and distraction-free learning environments, aligned with California law and informed by feedback from our community.

What devices are included?

  • Cell phones

  • Smartwatches

  • Smart glasses

  • Gaming devices

  • AirPods, earbuds, headphones

  • Similar personal technology

Can students contact families during the day?

Yes. Students may use the main office phone if needed. We kindly ask families not to call or text students during the school day.

What are the expectations by grade level?

  • Grades PK–8: No device use on campus during the school day.

  • Grades 9–12: Devices off and stored during instructional time; permitted during non-instructional time in accordance with school rules.

What about privacy-sensitive areas?

Devices are strictly prohibited in restrooms, locker rooms, and similar spaces.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes. As outlined by California law:

  • Medical necessity determined by a licensed professional

  • Requirements in a student’s IEP or 504 Plan

  • Emergencies or perceived danger

How will this policy be enforced?

  • Staff will remind students of expectations.

  • Devices used improperly may be confiscated and held per school site procedures.

  • Ongoing violations may lead to progressive discipline under District policy.

What should families keep in mind?

We recognize this shift may take time to adjust to. Our shared goal is to help students remain focused, present, and connected to their learning and each other during the school day. Thank you for your partnership in supporting this important effort.