I want to thank the more than 200 families who recently completed our survey about student cell phone use at school. Your feedback has been incredibly valuable in shaping a plan that reflects our shared goals: minimizing classroom distractions, supporting student learning, and honoring the importance of parent-student communication.
What We Heard From You
The overwhelming majority of families supported limiting cell phone use during class time. Many families also expressed a desire to remain in contact with their child when needed—especially for important updates or emergencies. These thoughtful perspectives helped us build a plan that we believe strikes the right balance.What’s Changing for 2025-2026
Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, Solanco High School will implement new classroom procedures for personal electronic devices. These include:Phones, smartwatches, and earbuds must be placed in a designated collection bin at the start of each class.
Devices will remain in the bin for the full class period.
Students may use devices before school, during lunch in the cafeteria, during flex, in hallways between classes, and after school—but not during instructional time.
This classroom-focused approach will help reduce distractions and foster a more focused learning environment while still giving students access to their phones during non-instructional times.
Supporting Individual Needs
We understand that there may be medical or individual circumstances that require a student to keep a device with them. If your child has a health-related or other qualifying need, please contact your child’s assistant principal to discuss the exemption process.
Why This Matters
Research—and our own experience—shows that frequent phone use during class can interfere with focus, academic performance, and social development. These new procedures are designed to help students stay present and engaged in their learning.
What Comes Next
This message is the first step in our communication about the new procedures. We’ll continue to share updates and reminders as we approach the start of the 2025 - 2026 school year. In the coming months, we’ll also work with students to ensure a smooth transition.
Once again, thank you for your input and support. Working together, we can make our classrooms more focused and productive spaces for all students.
