Personal Electronic Device (PED) Grades K-6 Procedure

Purpose: To support focus, reduce distractions, and promote face-to-face interaction among elementary students.

1. Students in grades K–6 are not permitted to use or access personal electronic devices (PEDs) during the school day, including recess and lunch. PEDs brought to school must remain off and stored in backpacks or with a teacher/front office from the first bell until the last bell during school hours.
2. Wearable PEDs (ex- smartwatches, Gabb watches) may be worn as long as they do not create a distraction or a disruption during school hours. Wearable sound devices (ex- AirPods, headphones, etc.) must be turned off and stored from the first to the last bell.
3. Communication with parents/guardians will be facilitated through the teacher or the school's central office.
4. Students who choose to bring cellular devices to school do so at their own risk. The school district assumes no liability for lost, stolen or damaged devices.
5. Parent Contact: All communication must go through the front office. Students may not use personal devices to contact home during school hours unless authorized to do so by school staff.
6. Exceptions Include:

1. To respond to an imminent threat to the health or safety of an individual.
2. To respond to a school-wide emergency.
3. To use the SafeUT Crisis Line
4. According to a student's IEP or 504 accommodation plan (ex- medical reasons with documentation).
5. To address a medical necessity.
6. Teacher or Administrator permission (ex- specific learning activities).

Procedures:

A. Arrival: PEDs must be turned off and placed in backpacks or turned in to the teacher (school-specific procedures may apply).

B. During Class/Recess: PEDs are not to be used. All instruction and interaction are to be screen-free unless directed by the teacher.

C. Violation Consequences:

1. 1st Violation: Reminder and device returned at the end of the day.
2. 2nd Violation: Device held in office; parent contacted.
3. 3rd+ Violations: Conference with parent; student may lose the privilege of bringing a PED to school.

D. Staff Responsibility:

1. Teachers will model appropriate use and maintain storage expectations.
2. School staff will coordinate emergency contact and messaging.

 

Approved by District Administration: August 28, 2025

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