Disconnect to Reconnect

Working together, schools and families can prepare kids to think critically and use technology in positive, creative, and powerful ways. This page is a resource for BUSD families to help guide discussions and make the best decisions for their children.

New BUSD Mobile Device Policy

On March 12, 2025, the BUSD Board of Education was introduced to its Mobile Device Policy. Assembly Bill 3216 requires all school districts to develop a policy to limit or prohibit the use of smartphones while the pupils are at a school site by July 1, 2026. The new policy outlines that students are not allowed to use their personal mobile devices (including phones, personal tablets, bluetooth headphones (such as AirPods), smartwatches and any bluetooth/recording device) personal mobile devices (including phones, personal tablets, bluetooth headphones {such as AirPods}, and smartwatches) once they have entered campus for the instructional day and cannot resume their use until after the end of the day. Devices must be turned off and stored away for the duration of the school day. This change aims to minimize distractions and enhance student focus and learning outcomes.

FAQ about the Mobile Device Policy

  • Q: I have questions about the mobile device policy, where can I find answers? 

    • A: While we have several frequently asked questions and answers below, decisions are ultimately made by referencing the new mobile device policy..

  • Q: How can I contact my student or how can my student contact me during the school day?

    • A: Students who need to contact family during the school day can visit the office to place a call. Families who need to contact their student during the school day can call the front office to relay a message or request a call back from their student.

  • Q: What if my child needs to access resources on their phone?

    • A: Upper grade and middle school students have access to a Chromebook

  • Q: What if my student has a specific health reason for having their phone on during the school day?

    • A: When a licensed physician or surgeon determines that the possession or use is necessary for the student’s health, students will be allowed access to their device only to monitor or manage their diagnosed medical condition. Students diagnosed with a condition that meets the parameters noted above are not allowed to utilize their device(s) outside of managing their medical condition.

  • Q: What if there is a school emergency? 

    • ​A: In the event of a school emergency, students will be provided instructions on the use of phones by school staff. During any emergency situation, use of devices will not be considered a violation of the mobile phone policy. 

  • Q: What should I do if I want to track my student’s location?

    • A: Airtags or similar devices in a student’s backpack are allowed.

  • Q: What will the consequences be if a student does not follow this policy?

    • A: Mobile device violations are as follows: 

      • 1st Violation: Student will be given a warning. (Documented in Aeries)

      • 2nd Violation: Student will pick up the phone in the office at the end of school day. (Documented in Aeries) 

      • 3rd Violation: Parent/Guardian will be notified and must pick up the phone. (Documented in Aeries)

      • 4th Violation: Students will attend a parent/guardian meeting with an administrator and may be required to check–in their phone to the front office daily. (Documented in Aeries)

  • Q: My child wears a smartwatch at school, can they still continue to wear it?

    • A: If a smartwatch does have communication applications, students are recommended to keep the device at home, or must have the device off and put away during the entirety of the school day. Watches that are not used for communication (texts, phone calls) or gaming are allowed to be worn during the school day.

  • Q: Are recording devices allowed on campus?

    • A: Audio and/or video recording devices are not allowed on campus  at any time without the express permission of the teacher and/or principal.

Research